> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://whip.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Add images and files to your Whip app

> Attach photos and PDFs in the Whip builder so the AI can use their colors, content, and style in your app. JPEG, PNG, or PDF up to 5 MB, 5 per message.

In the Whip builder, tap the **+** button next to the message box to attach photos and files. You can add **JPEG, PNG, or PDF** files, up to **5 MB each** and **5 per message**. The AI reads them and uses them in your app — matching colors, pulling in content or data, or following a style you show it.

## How to attach something

<Steps>
  <Step title="Tap the + button" icon="plus">
    In the [builder](/getting-started/create-your-first-app) chat, tap **+** to
    the side of where you type your message.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Pick a photo or file" icon="image">
    Take a new photo with your **camera**, choose one from your **library**, or
    attach a **file** like a PDF. Whip will ask for camera or photo access the
    first time — see [app permissions](/using/app-permissions).
  </Step>

  <Step title="Add your message and send" icon="send">
    Describe what you'd like the AI to do with it — "use these colors," "turn
    this recipe into an app," "match this layout" — then send.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## What the AI does with your attachments

An attachment is a reference the AI can learn from. Depending on what you send and ask for, it might:

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Match colors" icon="palette">
    Send a photo or poster and say "use this color palette," and the AI pulls
    those colors into your app's look.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Use the content" icon="file-text">
    Attach a PDF or image full of information — a recipe, a list, a menu — and
    the AI can turn it into your app's content.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Read your data" icon="table">
    Share a screenshot of data or a document, and the AI can build around what's
    in it.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Follow a style" icon="layout-template">
    Show a screenshot of a look you like or a sketch of your idea, and the AI
    uses it as a design reference.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

<Tip>
  A quick reference image often beats a long description. Instead of describing a
  color scheme in words, snap the thing that has it — more in [prompt
  tips](/building/prompt-tips-and-ideas).
</Tip>

## Your attachments stick around

Files you attach stay with your app across [edits](/building/edit-your-app) and show up in your chat timeline, so the AI can keep referring to them as your app evolves. Tap any attachment in the chat to view it full-size whenever you want.

## If an upload is refused

If a file can't be added, Whip tells you exactly why — usually because it's the wrong type or too big. Stick to **JPEG, PNG, or PDF** at **5 MB or under**, and keep it to **5 files per message**. Fix the file and try again.

<Note>
  Your chat attachments are private. Only you can download the files you attach
  to your own chats — even on apps you later publish. More in [privacy & your
  data](/account/privacy-and-data).
</Note>

## Common questions

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="What file types can I attach?" icon="file">
    JPEG and PNG images, and PDF files. Each can be up to 5 MB, and you can send
    up to 5 in a single message.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can I take a photo right in the app?" icon="camera">
    Yes. Tap **+** and choose your camera to snap a new photo, or pick one from
    your library. Whip asks for access the first time — see [app
    permissions](/using/app-permissions).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Can other people download my attachments?" icon="lock">
    No. Only you can download files from your own chats, even if you publish the
    app. Your references stay yours.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Why was my file rejected?" icon="circle-x">
    Most likely it's not a JPEG, PNG, or PDF, or it's over 5 MB. Whip shows the
    reason on screen — adjust the file and try again.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Related

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Prompt tips & ideas" icon="lightbulb" href="/building/prompt-tips-and-ideas">
    Get more from every message, attachments included.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Edit your app" icon="pencil" href="/building/edit-your-app">
    Attach references as you refine — they stay with your app.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>