How to Switch from WhatsApp to GBWhatsApp

Switching from the official WhatsApp to GBWhatsApp opens up a world of new customization and privacy options — like changing chat bubbles, hiding online status, and even viewing deleted messages. However, since GBWhatsApp is a third-party mod, you’ll need to manually transfer your data to ensure you don’t lose your chats and media.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to switch smoothly from WhatsApp to GBWhatsApp.

What Makes GBWhatsApp So Popular

GBWhatsApp stands out because it gives users freedom and features beyond what official WhatsApp allows. Here’s why it’s gaining attention:

• Full customization: Change home screen wallpaper, themes, chat bubbles, and fonts for a unique look.
• Enhanced privacy: Hide online status, blue ticks, or typing indicators.
• Extra control: Lock individual chats, auto-reply to messages, or schedule sends.
• Advanced sharing: Send large media files and view deleted messages easily.

These added benefits make GBWhatsApp ideal for users who want more flexibility without sacrificing communication convenience.

Requirements to Switch from WhatsApp to GBWhatsApp

Before starting, ensure the following:

• Backup your WhatsApp chats so you can restore them later.
• At least 1 GB of free storage space for app data and media.
• Stable internet connection to ensure smooth data transfer.
• Android device (GBWhatsApp currently doesn’t support iOS).

⚠️ Note: GBWhatsApp is not available on the Google Play Store. You’ll need to download it from a trusted source, just visit gbwapks.org to get the latest version for 100% free and safe.

Steps to Switch from WhatsApp to GBWhatsApp

Switching isn’t difficult as you think — you just need to follow each step carefully to avoid losing your data.

Step 1: Back Up Your WhatsApp Data

1. Open GBWhatsApp → Settings → Chats → Chat backup.
2. Tap BACK UP to create a local backup file.
3. Use your file manager to locate Internal Storage / WhatsApp / Databases and copy the backup file.

👉 For more concrete guide information, you may as well navigate to our detailed GBWhatsApp tutorial How to Backup GB WhatsApp Chats.

Step 2: Install GBWhatsApp

1. Download the GBWhatsApp APK from a reliable source.
2. Go to Settings → Security → Install Unknown Apps, and enable installation permissions.
3. Open the APK file → tap Install → wait for setup to complete.

Step 3: Restore Your Data

1. Rename your backup folder from WhatsApp to GBWhatsApp.
2. Move it to Internal Storage / GBWhatsApp / Databases.
3. Open GBWhatsApp, verify your number, and select Restore when prompted.

Your chats, photos, and videos will reappear as they were in your original WhatsApp.

Common Problems and Fixes When Switching

Backup not found

If GBWhatsApp says it can’t find your backup, don’t worry — this usually means the file is in the wrong place.

1. Open your File Manager.
2. Go to Internal Storage → WhatsApp → Databases and locate the file named msgstore.db.crypt14.
3. Rename the WhatsApp folder to GBWhatsApp.
4. Move it to Internal Storage → GBWhatsApp → Databases.
5. Reopen GBWhatsApp and tap Restore again.
   This ensures the app recognizes your backup correctly.

App not installing

If installation fails, it’s often due to blocked permissions or lack of space.

1. Go to your phone’s Settings → Apps → Special Access → Install Unknown Apps.
2. Select the browser or file manager you used to download GBWhatsApp and enable Allow from this source.
3. Make sure your phone has at least 1 GB of free storage.
4. Try reinstalling the APK.
   If the issue continues, restart your device and repeat the installation.

Verification issues

If GBWhatsApp doesn’t verify your phone number:

1. Confirm you’re using the same number as your original WhatsApp account.
2. Ensure you have a strong internet connection — switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data if needed.
3. Wait a few minutes before trying again (sometimes servers delay the verification code).
4. Avoid using VPNs during verification, as they may interfere with message delivery.

How to Switch Back to WhatsApp

If you decide GBWhatsApp isn’t for you, you can return to the official WhatsApp app without losing your chats:

1. Open GBWhatsApp → Settings → Chats → Chat Backup.
2. Tap BACK UP to save your recent messages.
3. Locate the GBWhatsApp folder in your file manager and rename it back to WhatsApp.
4. Uninstall GBWhatsApp and reinstall the official WhatsApp from Google Play.
5. Open WhatsApp → verify your number → tap Restore.

You’ll recover all your messages, images, and videos as before.

Best Practices for a Smooth GBWhatsApp Experience

To ensure your GBWhatsApp stays stable and secure:

• Keep the app updated to the latest version for bug fixes and improvements.
• Back up your chats regularly.
• Download only from reliable, verified sources.
• Avoid using multiple mod versions on the same device.

Enjoy a Seamless Switch

Transitioning from WhatsApp to GBWhatsApp doesn’t have to be complicated — as long as you back up your data and follow the proper steps. Once migrated, you’ll enjoy a richer messaging experience with more customization, privacy, and control than ever before.