GBWTS
Technical details
| App name | GB WhatsApp |
| Latest version | v18.80 |
| File size | 76 MB |
| File type | APK (Android package) |
| Requires | Android 5.0 or newer |
| Installed size | About 200 MB plus data |
| Root required | No |
| Category | Communication |
| Developer | Independent mod developers (not Meta) |
| Based on | Official WhatsApp for Android |
| License | Free |
| Languages | Multiple, including English |
| Google Play | Not available |
| Last updated | October 2026 |
What is GB WhatsApp?
Most people use WhatsApp every day without ever thinking about what it cannot do. Then one day you want to read a message without the blue tick appearing, or send a long video in full quality, and the limits suddenly become obvious. That is exactly the space GB WhatsApp was built to fill.
GB WhatsApp is an unofficial build of WhatsApp maintained by independent developers. It keeps the chat layout you already know, the same contacts, groups, calls and end to end encryption, and layers a large extra settings panel on top. Inside that panel you will find options for privacy, themes, media, chats and notifications that the stock app simply does not offer.
Since it is not available on any official app store, GB WhatsApp reaches users as a standalone APK. Installing one takes a few minutes, but it pays to know the details first. Below you will find everything in one place: what the app does, a complete file info table, device requirements, step by step install and update instructions, how to back up and restore chats, how to move over from official WhatsApp, pros and cons, a frank look at safety and bans, other mods worth knowing, a version history and answers to the most common questions.
Who should use it?
Who actually benefits from GB WhatsApp? Mostly people who care about privacy controls, people who send lots of photos, videos and documents, and people who enjoy making their apps look the way they want. Small shop owners also like the auto reply and scheduler tools, which normally require WhatsApp Business.
It is less suitable if you depend on Google Drive backups, need guaranteed account stability for work, or handle very sensitive information. In those cases the official app is the safer choice, and many people keep it for their main number while trying the mod on a second one.
GB WhatsApp features: the complete list
These are the options grouped by area, so you can find what matters to you quickly.
Hide Chats
Move conversations into a hidden area that only opens with a gesture and your lock code.
Freeze Last Seen
Lock your last seen time at a chosen moment. It stays fixed no matter how much you use the app afterwards.
Hide Typing and Recording
Stop the typing and recording voice note indicators from appearing in the other person's chat.
Call Blocker
Decide who can reach you through WhatsApp voice and video calls and silently reject the rest.
Hide Second Tick
Go one step further and stop the second grey tick, so senders cannot even tell the message was delivered.
Ghost Mode
One switch hides your online badge, typing and recording indicators, blue ticks and status views at the same time, so you can use the app without leaving a trail.
Anti Delete Status
Statuses that contacts remove after posting remain viewable for you.
Hide Blue Ticks
Read messages without sending the blue double tick back. Unlike the stock app, you can do this per contact or per group and still see other people's read receipts.
Anti Delete Messages
When someone deletes a message for everyone, it stays visible on your side with a small marker, including media.
Anti View Once
Photos and videos sent as view once can be opened again or saved, depending on the build.
Built in App Lock
Lock the whole app or individual chats with a PIN, pattern or fingerprint without installing a separate locker.
View Status Secretly
Watch statuses without your name appearing in the viewer list.
Hide Online Status
Stay invisible while you chat. Contacts will not see the word online under your name even when the app is open.
Home Screen Layout
Rearrange tabs, hide the camera icon, change the launcher icon and adjust the conversation list style.
Custom Notifications
Set different notification tones, LED colors and pop up styles per contact or group.
Fonts and Emoji Styles
Switch to a different font for the whole app and choose between emoji packs.
Theme Store
Browse thousands of free themes made by the community and apply them instantly, or save your current look as a theme.
Custom Colors and Bubbles
Change header colors, chat bubbles, tick styles, wallpapers and icons individually.
Longer Video Status
Post longer video statuses and longer text captions than the official app allows.
Original Quality Media
Disable compression so photos and videos arrive sharp and in their original resolution.
Larger File Sharing
Send long videos and large documents far beyond the stock limits. Recent builds advertise files up to around 1 GB.
Copy Status Text
Copy the caption or text of any status to your clipboard.
Send More Images at Once
Share a big batch of photos in a single go instead of splitting them into several messages.
Status Downloader
Save photos and videos from contacts' statuses straight to your gallery with one tap.
DND Mode
Cut internet access for this app only, so other apps stay online while WhatsApp stays quiet.
Auto Reply
Answer messages automatically when you are busy, by keyword, contact or schedule. Normally this needs WhatsApp Business.
Edit History
See the original text of messages that the sender later edited.
Pin More Chats
Pin many more conversations to the top of the list than the stock limit of three.
Message Scheduler
Write a message now and have it sent automatically at a chosen date and time.
Translate Messages
Translate incoming messages inside the chat in supported builds.
Message Without Saving
Start a chat with any number without adding it to your contacts first.
Broadcast to Groups
Send one broadcast message to several groups at once, handy for announcements.
Dual Accounts
Install it next to official WhatsApp and run a second number on the same phone.
Local Backup and Restore
Create backups in phone storage and restore them on reinstall or on a new phone.
Multi Language
The interface is available in many languages and you can change it independently of the phone language.
Built in Updater
Get notified inside the app when a new build is released.
Changes in GB WhatsApp v18.80
Highlights from the latest changelog:
- New emoji set and extra fonts
- Message edit history view
- Hide unwanted home screen icons
- Improved stability with fewer crashes on Android 14 and 15
- Bug fixes for media sending and notification delays
- Refreshed anti ban mechanism (risk is reduced, not removed)
- Pin more chats and archive tweaks
- Ghost mode now covers status views and voice note recording
Screenshots
Simplified previews of the key panels (illustrations).
Device requirements
- Android 5.0 Lollipop or newer (Android 8 or later recommended)
- At least 200 MB of free storage for the app, plus space for media and backups
- A phone number that can receive SMS or a call for verification
- An internet connection, Wi Fi recommended for the first download
- Permission to install apps from unknown sources
- Optional: a computer or cloud drive to keep copies of local backups
Permissions the app asks for
- Contacts, to show your address book
- Storage or media access, for photos, files and backups
- Camera and microphone, for calls, photos and voice notes
- Location, only if you share it in a chat
- Notifications, to alert you about new messages
Install GB WhatsApp step by step
The whole process takes about five minutes.
- Make a backup firstIf you plan to move your current number, open the official WhatsApp, go to Settings, Chats, Chat backup and tap Back up. This writes a local copy to your phone storage as well as to Google Drive.
- Download the APKTap any download button on this page. The file is saved to your Downloads folder. Your browser may warn that this type of file can harm your device; that warning appears for every APK outside the Play Store.
- Allow unknown sourcesOn Android 8 and newer open Settings, Apps, Special app access, Install unknown apps, choose your browser or file manager and enable Allow from this source. On older phones the toggle is under Settings, Security, Unknown sources.
- Install the fileOpen your file manager or the browser's downloads list, tap the APK and press Install. If Play Protect asks for a scan, you can scan it or choose Install anyway if you trust the source.
- Open and verify your numberLaunch the app, agree to the terms, choose your country and enter your number. Type the six digit code you receive by SMS or call.
- Restore and personalizeIf a local backup is detected, tap Restore. Then set your profile name and photo, open the extra settings menu and switch on the features you want.
Keeping GB WhatsApp up to date
GB WhatsApp does not update through the Play Store, so you update it manually. When a new version appears, download the newest APK and install it directly over the existing app. Android keeps your data in place because the package name and signature match, so chats, media and settings survive the update.
Before each update, run a quick local backup from the app's chat settings. It only takes a minute and protects you if an install goes wrong.
Many builds include an updater inside the special settings menu that checks for new releases. If you see a message saying your version has expired, that is your cue to install the latest APK.
Is GB WhatsApp safe? Ban risk explained
Is GB WhatsApp safe? The honest answer is that it carries more risk than the official app. Messages still use WhatsApp's end to end encryption once they leave your phone, but the app itself is built and signed by people outside Meta, and nobody independent audits each release. You are trusting the mod team and the place you downloaded the file from.
To reduce risk, use a single trusted download source, keep the app updated, do not grant unnecessary permissions, avoid sharing highly sensitive information through it and back up your chats regularly.
Can you get banned?
Bans are a real possibility. Meta states clearly that modified clients such as GB WhatsApp, WhatsApp Plus and FM WhatsApp break its terms. A typical first strike is a temporary ban shown as a countdown timer; repeated detection can lead to a permanent ban.
Many builds advertise anti ban protection. That can lower the chance of detection, but no mod can promise zero risk, and anyone claiming otherwise is overselling. If you receive a temporary ban message, the usual advice is to back up locally, switch to the official app and restore your chats there.
Fixing install and login errors
App not installed
Usually caused by a conflicting older copy signed differently, or not enough storage. Uninstall the old copy after backing up, free some space and try again.
Parse error
The download may be incomplete or corrupted. Delete the file and download it again over a stable connection.
You need the official WhatsApp to log in
Your build is outdated or has been detected. Install the latest version, and if the message persists, back up locally and use the official app for a while.
Verification code not arriving
Wait for the timer and request a voice call instead, make sure the number format is right and that you are not on a temporary ban.
Backup not found when restoring
Check that the backup folder sits in the exact path and name the app expects, and that storage permission is granted.
Play Protect blocks the install
Tap More details and Install anyway if you trust the source, or temporarily pause Play Protect scanning during the install.
Alternatives and other WhatsApp mods
If GB WhatsApp is not quite right, these are the best known options.
FM WhatsApp
Developed by Fouad Mods, known for strong privacy options, lots of fonts and a clean settings layout.
WhatsApp Plus
One of the oldest mods, focused on visual customization with a characteristic blue theme.
YoWhatsApp (YoWA)
Originally by Yousef Al Basha, popular for themes, emoji variants and an iOS like look.
OGWhatsApp
Aimed mainly at running a second account, with a lighter feature set.
Fouad WhatsApp
Close sibling of FM WhatsApp with frequent updates and anti ban improvements.
GB WhatsApp Pro
A variant of GB with extra tweaks to themes and media options.
WhatsApp Business
Not a mod at all. Meta's own free app offers auto replies and labels, with full official support.
Version history and old versions
Here is a summary of recent releases. Earlier APKs are on the old versions page.
| Version | Released | Main changes |
|---|---|---|
| v18.80 | October 2026 | Stability fixes for Android 15, updated anti ban layer, new theme styles, ghost mode now includes status views. |
| v18.70 | September 2026 | Faster local backup, edit history view, notification fixes. |
| v18.60 | August 2026 | More pinned chats, new emoji set, bug fixes for media sending. |
| v18.50 | June 2026 | Message scheduler improvements, translation in chats, refreshed home screen options. |
| v18.30 | April 2026 | Anti view once refinements, call blocker update, minor UI changes. |
| v18.10 | February 2026 | Base updated to a newer WhatsApp build, new privacy menu layout. |
| v17.85 | December 2025 | Theme store refresh and performance work on low memory phones. |
| v17.70 | October 2025 | Status download improvements and larger video status support. |
| v17.60 | August 2025 | App lock per chat, new fonts, crash fixes. |
| v17.52 | June 2025 | Expired build replacement with login fixes. |
Backup and restore chats
Google Drive backup is not available in GB WhatsApp, because Google only allows the official app to use WhatsApp's Drive slot. Instead the mod writes backups to phone storage, which makes it important to copy them somewhere safe yourself.
To back up, open the three dot menu, Settings, Chats, Chat backup and tap Back up. The backup is stored in a folder in your internal storage (often Android/media/ followed by the app's package name, or a folder in the root named after the mod). Copy that whole folder to a computer, a USB drive or a cloud service now and then.
To restore on the same or a new phone, copy the backup folder back to the same location before installing, install the APK, verify your number and tap Restore when the app finds the backup. If it does not find it, check that the folder name and location exactly match what the app expects.
Migrating from the official app
Moving from official WhatsApp to GB WhatsApp with the same number is possible without losing chats, but the order of steps matters.
First back up in the official app (Settings, Chats, Chat backup). Next, open your file manager and locate the WhatsApp folder under Android/media/com.whatsapp/WhatsApp. Copy or rename it to the folder name the mod expects; many GB builds use a folder called GBWhatsApp, and some builds detect the official folder automatically. Then uninstall official WhatsApp or simply keep it for another number, install GB WhatsApp, verify your number and tap Restore.
Going back the other way works the same in reverse: back up locally in GB WhatsApp, rename the folder back to WhatsApp under the official media path, install official WhatsApp from Google Play, verify the number and choose Restore from local backup.
Prefer two accounts?
If you do not want to move your main number, you can keep both apps. Install GB WhatsApp next to the official app and register a different number in each. This is a popular way to separate work and personal chats on a single phone.
Side by side: GB WhatsApp and WhatsApp
Here is where the two apps really differ.
| Feature | Official WhatsApp | GB WhatsApp |
|---|---|---|
| Hide online status | Not possible while the app is open | Yes, including full ghost mode |
| Blue ticks | Global switch only, and you lose other people's ticks too | Per chat or group, and you still see others |
| Freeze last seen | No | Yes |
| Hide typing indicator | No | Yes |
| View status secretly | Only by turning off read receipts | Yes, independent switch |
| Anti delete messages | No | Yes |
| Anti delete status | No | Yes |
| Themes | Light, dark and a few chat colors | Thousands of themes plus full custom styling |
| Fonts | System font only | Many fonts |
| App lock | Basic fingerprint lock | PIN, pattern or fingerprint, per app or per chat |
| File sharing limit | Up to 2 GB documents, media compressed | Larger media in original quality |
| Images per message | 30 | Many more |
| Auto reply | WhatsApp Business only | Yes |
| Message scheduler | No | Yes |
| Status download | No | Yes |
| DND for one app | No | Yes |
| Pinned chats | 3 | Many more |
| Google Drive backup | Yes | No, local backup only |
| Official support and security reviews | Yes, by Meta | No, community maintained |
| Play Store availability | Yes | No, APK only |
| Account ban risk | None | Possible |
The good and the not so good
Pros
- Far more privacy controls than the stock app
- Thousands of themes, fonts and layout tweaks
- Bigger file limits and original quality media
- Auto reply and scheduler without a Business account
- Anti delete for messages and statuses
- Runs alongside official WhatsApp with a second number
- Free, no subscription and no root
Cons
- Not official: no support or security review from Meta
- Possible temporary or permanent account ban
- No Google Drive backup, only local backups
- Manual updates; old builds can expire
- Fake or tampered APKs circulate on dubious sites
- Some features may break after WhatsApp server changes
FAQ
Is GB WhatsApp legal?
Downloading or using it is not a crime in most countries, but it violates WhatsApp's Terms of Service, which is why accounts can be restricted. Check local rules if you are unsure.
Can I use it on a PC?
Not natively. Some people run it inside an Android emulator such as BlueStacks. You can also use WhatsApp Web style linking in some builds.
Can GB WhatsApp read other people's chats or spy on them?
No. It only changes how your own app behaves. It cannot access anyone else's messages.
Can my account be banned?
Yes. Using unofficial clients breaks WhatsApp's terms. Temporary bans are the most common; permanent bans are rarer. Using a secondary number and keeping backups limits the impact.
Do I need to root my phone?
No. It installs like any regular APK on a standard, unrooted Android phone.
How much storage does it need?
The APK is around 76 MB, and the installed app needs roughly 200 MB plus space for media and backups.
What does 'You need the official WhatsApp to log in' mean?
Your build was detected or is outdated. Update to the latest version; if it continues, switch to official WhatsApp for a while using a local backup.
Can I back up to Google Drive?
No. Only local backups are supported. Copy the backup folder to a computer or cloud storage yourself.
Why is it not on the Google Play Store?
Because it modifies WhatsApp's app and breaks its terms, Google does not allow it on the Play Store. It is distributed only as an APK.
Is GB WhatsApp free?
Yes. It is free to download and use, with no subscription and no in app purchases.
Will I lose my chats when updating?
No, installing a newer version over the old one keeps your chats. Uninstalling first would delete them unless you have a backup.
What is the difference between GB WhatsApp and WhatsApp Plus?
Both are mods with similar roots. GB focuses on a broad mix of privacy and media features, while WhatsApp Plus is known for its themes and blue design.
Does it drain more battery?
Not noticeably in normal use. Heavy use of themes with animated backgrounds may use slightly more power.
Why does Android warn that the file may be harmful?
That warning appears for every APK installed outside the Play Store. It is not specific to this app, but only continue if you trust the file's source.
Can I use GB WhatsApp and official WhatsApp on the same phone?
Yes, as long as each app uses a different phone number.
How do I move my chats from official WhatsApp?
Back up in the official app, copy or rename the WhatsApp media folder to the name the mod expects, install GB WhatsApp, verify your number and tap Restore.
Can others tell that I use GB WhatsApp?
Not directly. Your contacts see normal WhatsApp messages. However, if you use features like ghost mode, they may notice you never appear online.
How do I update GB WhatsApp?
Download the newest APK and install it over the current app. Your data stays in place. Make a local backup first just in case.
Can I hide my online status from only some contacts?
Yes. The privacy menu lets you apply many options to all contacts, selected contacts, groups or everyone except chosen people.
Helpful guides
GB WhatsApp or WhatsApp: Which Should You Use?
A balanced comparison of GB WhatsApp and official WhatsApp covering features, privacy, backups, support and ban risk.
Stay Invisible on GB WhatsApp: Hiding Online Status
Learn how to stop contacts from seeing when you are online in GB WhatsApp, plus related settings like freeze last seen and ghost mode.
How to Schedule Messages in GB WhatsApp
Plan birthday wishes, reminders and announcements with the built in message scheduler in GB WhatsApp.
How to Solve the Official WhatsApp Login Error in GB WhatsApp
Why GB WhatsApp shows the 'You need the official WhatsApp to log in' message and the steps that usually solve it.
GB WhatsApp Installation Guide for Beginners
A beginner friendly walkthrough for installing the GB WhatsApp APK on Android, including permissions and common errors.
Best Ways to Personalize GB WhatsApp with Themes
How to browse, apply and create themes in GB WhatsApp, plus tips for fonts, bubbles and icons.
Conclusion
If you want more from WhatsApp, GB WhatsApp is one of the most complete options. Install it carefully, stay on the newest build and be realistic about the risks.