GB WhatsApp is a popular mod of the official WhatsApp app that offers many additional features and customization options. However, because it is not an official release by WhatsApp, you need to manually check for updates and install them to keep GB WhatsApp working properly.
Check the GB WhatsApp version number
The easiest way to check if you have the latest version of GB WhatsApp is to look at the version number. Open GB WhatsApp and go to More Options > Settings > About. Here you will see the version number listed.
Compare this to the latest version available on the GB WhatsApp website or forums. If your version is lower, then your app needs an update.
Current GB WhatsApp versions
Here are some of the most recent GB WhatsApp versions at the time of writing:
| Version | Release Date |
|---|---|
| GBWhatsApp 17.20.0 | March 2022 |
| GBWhatsApp 17.30.0 | April 2022 |
| GBWhatsApp 17.40.0 | May 2022 |
So if your version number is lower than the latest available, you need to update.
Check for an update notification
When a new update for GB WhatsApp is released, you will get a notification within the app prompting you to update. This notification typically appears at the top of the chat screens.
If you see this update notification, tap on it and follow the prompts to download and install the latest version of GB WhatsApp.
Manually check for updates
If you don’t have an update notification, you can manually check for one:
- Open GB WhatsApp
- Go to More Options > Settings
- Tap on “Check for updates”
This will trigger GB WhatsApp to check the servers for any new updates. If one is available, it will prompt you to download and install it.
Troubleshoot update issues
Sometimes GB WhatsApp may fail to update properly. Here are some troubleshooting steps if you are having issues:
- Check that you have a stable internet connection when updating.
- Restart your phone and try updating again.
- Clear the cache and data for GB WhatsApp and try updating again.
- Uninstall GB WhatsApp and install a fresh copy from the website.
- Check the website for any known update bugs and fixes.
Keep auto-update enabled
To ensure you always have the latest GB WhatsApp version, enable auto-update:
- Go to More Options > Settings
- Tap on “Auto-update”
- Toggle on “Auto-update GBWhatsApp”
This will automatically download and install updates in the background when you are connected to WiFi. You don’t have to manually check for new versions.
Update frequency
How often GB WhatsApp releases new updates depends on any bugs or issues that need fixing. Typically you can expect a new update every 1-2 months.
Major updates with significant new features are less frequent, around 3-4 times a year. So updating every month or two is generally enough to stay current.
Most important updates
While all updates include some fixes and improvements, these are some of the most significant GB WhatsApp updates:
| Version | Major Changes |
|---|---|
| v12.0 | UI improvements, new emojis |
| v11.0 | Dark mode, privacy improvements |
| v10.0 | Faster performance, customizable chat bubbles |
Updating to these major versions means gaining substantial new features and changes to the app experience.
Update benefits
Here are some of the benefits you get from updating GB WhatsApp regularly:
- Bug fixes – Updates resolve bugs and glitches
- Security patches – Fixes security flaws and improves privacy
- New features – Access to latest features added
- Compatibility – Works better with newer Android versions
- Improvements – Faster performance and optimization
Without updating, over time you may experience crashes, lagging, bugs and vulnerabilities in an outdated version. So staying updated is important.
Risks of outdated version
Using an outdated version of GB WhatsApp can pose some risks, such as:
- Security flaws – Older versions may have known vulnerabilities.
- Compatibility issues – Might not work properly on newer Android releases.
- Loss of features – Missing out on latest features and changes.
- Bugs – Unpatched bugs can lead to crashing or freezing.
- Ban risk – Using very outdated versions may get your account banned.
While risks are minimal if you are just a little behind on updates, it’s best not to use a GB WhatsApp version that is many months outdated.
Updating tips
Here are some useful tips when updating GB WhatsApp:
- Backup chats – Create a backup before updating to avoid any data loss.
- Connect WiFi – Update over WiFi to avoid using your mobile data.
- One update at a time – Don’t skip multiple updates at once.
- Read changelog – Check what’s changed in each update.
- Update apps too – Update your normal WhatsApp as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is updating GB WhatsApp safe?
Yes, updating GB WhatsApp is safe as long as you download updates directly from the official GB WhatsApp website. Avoid downloading updates from unofficial sources.
Can I restore my chats after updating?
Yes, your existing chats will remain intact after updating as long as you use the built-in data backup feature. Back up chats before updating to be safe.
Will I lose my settings when I update GB WhatsApp?
No, all your settings and preferences will stay the same when you update to a new version of GB WhatsApp in most cases.
Is updating to the latest GB WhatsApp version required?
It is recommended but not compulsory. However, using an extremely outdated version is not advisable as you’ll miss fixes and new features.
How big are GB WhatsApp updates usually?
Update sizes range from 10MB to 60MB typically. Major version updates with lots of changes may exceed 100MB.
How can I tell if someone else has an outdated GB WhatsApp?
If you see you have access to features that they don’t, or their interface looks outdated, then they likely have an old version installed.
Conclusion
Keeping your GB WhatsApp updated is important to get the latest features, security fixes, improvements and avoid issues caused by outdated versions. It’s easy to check for updates manually or enable auto-update to stay current. Generally aim to update every 1-2 months to have one of the latest versions installed for the best experience.