Tenor enables users to express themselves through GIFs while providing brands with engaging, emotional touchpoints in digital conversations through the world's most widely integrated GIF platform.
Last updated Feb 8, 2026
- Industry
- Content Platform / Visual Communication
- Business Model
- Platform/API
- Target Market
- Enterprise, Developers, Consumers
- Employee Count
- 51-200
- Funding
- $15M
- Parent Company
- Google (Alphabet Inc.)
- API Available
- Yes
Market Position
Leading GIF search engine and platform, integrated across major messaging and social platforms globally
Overview
Tenor is a GIF search engine and content platform that enables users to discover, share, and communicate using animated GIFs across messaging apps, social media platforms, and websites. Founded in 2013, the company built one of the world's largest GIF libraries and developed the popular GIF Keyboard app, which became integrated into major messaging platforms including Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, iMessage, and others. Tenor's technology uses AI and machine learning to help users find the perfect GIF for any conversation through search and discovery features. In March 2018, Tenor was acquired by Google, becoming part of Google's suite of content and communication tools. Within the AdTech ecosystem, Tenor operates as a content platform that facilitates brand engagement and emotional expression in digital communications. The platform offers advertising opportunities through branded GIFs and sponsored content, allowing brands to reach users at moments of high engagement. Tenor's API and SDK enable developers to integrate GIF functionality into their applications, making it a significant infrastructure provider for visual communication across the internet.
Products & Features
Tenor GIF Search
Web-based GIF search engine with extensive library of animated GIFs searchable by keywords, emotions, and categories
GIF Keyboard
Mobile keyboard app that allows users to search and share GIFs directly from their device keyboard
Tenor API
Developer API that enables integration of GIF search and sharing functionality into third-party applications
Tenor SDK
Software development kit for mobile and web developers to embed GIF functionality
GIF Maker
Tool for creating custom GIFs from videos and images
Key Features
AI-powered GIF search and discoveryExtensive GIF library with billions of searchesCross-platform integrationTrending and curated GIF collectionsBranded content and sponsored GIFsMobile keyboard integrationDeveloper API and SDKContent moderation and safety featuresAnalytics and insights dashboardMulti-language support
Use Cases
Enhanced messaging and social media communicationBrand marketing and emotional engagement campaignsDeveloper integration of GIF functionality in appsContent creation and sharing for entertainmentCustomer service and support communicationsSocial media content strategyMobile app user engagement
Customer Segments
Consumer usersMobile app developersSocial media platformsMessaging app providersBrands and advertisersMedia and entertainment companiesMarketing agencies