Has anyone successfully used GIFs as thumbnails for "Made in Webflow" showcase projects? It used to work but now my GIF thumbnails won't play; instead, it selects the first still image frame as the thumbnail.
TL;DR
- Webflow now displays only static images for showcase thumbnails, replacing autoplaying GIFs for performance reasons.
- To adapt, use eye-catching first frames, add animations within project pages, and consider submitting feedback for feature restoration.
GIF thumbnails for "Made in Webflow" showcase projects no longer autoplay as they once did. Webflow has updated how showcase thumbnails display, defaulting to static frames instead of animated previews.
1. What's Changed with Showcase Thumbnails
- Previously, Webflow allowed GIFs as project thumbnails that autoplayed in the "Made in Webflow" showcase.
- As of recent platform updates (mid-2023 onward), Webflow now converts GIFs into a static image, capturing just the first frame for thumbnail display.
- This is likely a performance and loading optimization to improve page speed on the showcase feed.
2. Limitations with Current GIF Support
- GIFs are still allowed to be uploaded and displayed within the project itself (e.g., on a page preview).
- However, thumbnails for the public showcase are automatically rasterized into a non-animated image when published.
- This affects both custom thumbnail uploads and the automatic thumbnail generated from the home page.
3. Possible Workarounds
There are currently no official or consistent workarounds for restoring GIF animation in showcase thumbnails. However, you can consider:
- Using a highly engaging static frame as the first frame of your GIF to ensure the thumbnail still visually stands out.
- Including a short looping animation in a page preview video, then linking visitors to the live site where full animations play.
- Submit feedback to Webflow staff via the community forum or support, requesting the feature be restored or toggled.
4. Other Media Options
- While GIFs no longer animate in thumbnails, videos (e.g., screen recordings with tools like Loom or Vimeo) can be added to the project’s detail page.
- Use animated Lottie files as in-site visuals if you wish to demonstrate interactivity once the project is opened.
Summary
Webflow no longer supports autoplaying GIFs as showcase thumbnails, opting for static images instead. This change cannot currently be bypassed. Focus on using impactful single-frame thumbnails and rely on animations within your actual project or detail page to showcase motion.