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Tenor was acquired by Google.
Brief
Tenor

Tenor

Provides the world's most comprehensive searchable GIF library with easy integration capabilities, enabling users to express themselves through visual content across digital platforms.

tenor.comSan Mateo, California, United StatesFounded 2014

Last updated May 11, 2026 by the ATDb Editorial Team

Industry
Content Platform/Visual Search
Business Model
Platform/API
Target Market
Enterprise, Developers, Consumers
Employee Count
51-200
Funding
$66M
Parent Company
Google
API Available
Yes
Market Position

Leading GIF search and sharing platform integrated across major messaging and social platforms

Overview

Tenor is a GIF search engine and content platform that helps users discover and share animated GIFs across various digital platforms. Founded in 2014, the company built one of the world's largest libraries of searchable GIFs and stickers, powering GIF functionality for messaging apps, social media platforms, and keyboards. In March 2018, Tenor was acquired by Google and continues to operate as a distinct service under Google's ownership. The platform serves billions of GIF searches monthly and has become deeply integrated into popular communication platforms including WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, iMessage, and many others. As part of Google, Tenor maintains its brand identity while benefiting from Google's infrastructure and resources. The platform operates both as a consumer-facing website and app, as well as through its API that developers and platforms integrate to provide GIF search functionality. Tenor's technology uses machine learning and search algorithms to help users find relevant GIFs based on emotions, reactions, and trending content. The platform also provides content creation tools and analytics for brands and content creators who want to distribute their GIFs through Tenor's network. In the AdTech ecosystem, Tenor represents an important content discovery and distribution platform that enables brand engagement through visual content. The platform offers opportunities for sponsored content and branded GIFs, allowing advertisers to reach users at moments of high engagement during messaging and social sharing activities.

Products & Features

Tenor GIF Search

Core search engine for discovering and sharing GIFs based on keywords, emotions, and trending content

Tenor API

Developer API that enables integration of GIF search functionality into third-party apps and platforms

Tenor GIF Keyboard

Mobile keyboard app that provides quick access to GIF search while messaging

Tenor Insights

Analytics platform for content creators and brands to track GIF performance and engagement

Key Features
AI-powered GIF search and discoveryExtensive library of licensed and user-generated GIFsCross-platform integration via APITrending and curated GIF collectionsMobile keyboard applicationsContent creator tools and analyticsBranded content and sponsored GIF capabilities
Use Cases
Enhancing messaging apps with GIF search functionalityBrand engagement through sponsored and branded GIFsSocial media content sharing and expressionMobile keyboard GIF integrationContent creator distribution and monetizationEmotional expression in digital communication
Customer Segments
Messaging app developersSocial media platformsMobile keyboard providersBrands and advertisersContent creatorsEnd consumers
Connections

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