A critical GIF functionality has stopped working in the Windows Emoji Panel for some users, leaving them without access to their favorite animated images. The issue was caused by the retirement of Google’s Tenor GIF search engine application programming interface (API), which was used to power the feature. However, Microsoft has swiftly acted to resolve the problem by switching to a new provider, GIPHY, and releasing a cumulative update, KB5095093.
The update, released on June 23, is available for Windows 11 users running version 24H2/25H2/26H1. To restore GIF functionality in the Emoji Panel, users can download and install the update from Microsoft’s Update Catalog or by checking for updates through the Settings app. Although this is an optional update, users who have enabled the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option will receive the update automatically.
Microsoft has not yet provided a timeline for when a fix will be available for Windows 11 23H2 and Windows Server 2025, which are still affected by the issue. This is just one of several known issues that Microsoft has been working to address in recent weeks. The company has already released fixes for other problems, including Windows update failures linked to the WUSA installer and a BitLocker recovery bug affecting Windows Server 2025 systems.
In addition to resolving the GIF functionality issue, the KB5095093 update includes the Point-in-Time Restore feature, which allows users to roll back their operating system, applications, and files to a previous point in time. This feature can be particularly useful for users who have encountered problems with recent updates or other issues that have affected their system’s stability.
To protect themselves from similar issues in the future, it is essential for Windows users to stay up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates. Microsoft releases cumulative updates on a regular basis to address known issues and improve overall system performance. By regularly checking for updates and installing them promptly, users can help ensure that their systems remain secure and stable.
It’s also worth noting that keeping your system updated is not just about fixing bugs and issues; it’s also about staying protected against emerging threats. Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems, so it’s crucial to keep all components of your Windows installation up-to-date.
Source: Bleeping Computer — 2026-07-01