MultipliedDocs

Troubleshooting

Outlook shows only the first frame

Outlook for Windows does not play GIFs. What recipients see and how to design for it.

Why

Outlook for Windows (the desktop app) renders email with Word's engine, which shows the first frame of an animated GIF as a still image. Outlook on the web, Mac and mobile play the animation.

What to do

  • Make the first frame carry the message: name, offer, call to action visible without motion.
  • Preview the first frame for your worst rows (longest name, biggest number).
  • Ask us about designs whose loop starts on the "hero" frame.