GB WhatsApp and WhatsApp are two different versions of the popular messaging app. While they share some similarities, there are key differences between the two that users should be aware of.
What is GB WhatsApp?
GB WhatsApp is a modified version of the original WhatsApp app. It was created by developers not affiliated with WhatsApp or parent company Meta. GB WhatsApp has some additional features not found in the original WhatsApp, but also lacks some of the official app’s features.
Some key facts about GB WhatsApp:
- Developed by independent developers, not WhatsApp/Meta
- Based on the open source code of WhatsApp
- Adds new features like theme customization, hiding online status, etc.
- Not available on Google Play Store, requires manual installation
- Free to download and use
What is WhatsApp?
WhatsApp is the original messaging application developed and owned by Meta (formerly Facebook). It pioneered messaging apps and remains the most popular globally.
Key facts about WhatsApp:
- Developed and owned by WhatsApp Inc. which is owned by Meta
- Over 2 billion active users worldwide
- Available for free on iOS, Android, and Windows Phone
- End-to-end encryption for messages and calls
- Group chats, voice and video calls, document sharing
Comparing Features and Capabilities
While GB WhatsApp is based on WhatsApp, it does have some different features and capabilities:
| Feature | GB WhatsApp | |
|---|---|---|
| Themes & Customization | Multiple themes available | Limited customization options |
| Privacy Control | Can hide online status, blue ticks, etc. | Basic privacy controls |
| Message Scheduling | Can schedule messages to send later | No message scheduling |
| Group Size | Groups up to 1000 members | Groups up to 256 members |
| App Size | Around 50MB download | 33MB download |
As you can see, GB WhatsApp provides much more flexibility in customizing themes and controlling privacy settings. The ability to schedule messages and have larger groups is also useful for some users.
Installing and Using GB WhatsApp
Because it is not an official WhatsApp client, GB WhatsApp is not available for download on the Google Play Store or App Store. To install it, Android users have to download the APK file from a third-party website. Here are the basic steps:
- Download the latest GB WhatsApp APK from a trusted site
- On your Android device, enable “Unknown Sources” to allow installing from outside the Play Store
- Locate the downloaded APK file on your device and tap to install
- Accept requested permissions
- On first launch, verify your phone number like normal WhatsApp
- Customize themes, settings, and other options
Once installed, using GB WhatsApp is quite similar to the regular version. All your WhatsApp chats and data will sync over seamlessly. You’ll have access to new theming and settings options to customize the app to your liking.
Risks and Downsides of GB WhatsApp
While the additional features may appeal to some users, there are some risks and downsides associated with third-party apps like GB WhatsApp:
- No endorsement or support from WhatsApp/Meta
- Unknown security and privacy standards
- Could cease functioning anytime if WhatsApp changes code
- Extra battery and data usage from added features
- Manual updates required rather than Play Store auto-updates
Because the app is not associated with WhatsApp in any way, there’s no guarantee your data is secure or that the app will remain functional indefinitely. Official WhatsApp clearly states they do not recommend using such third-party apps.
Can You Use Both GB WhatsApp and WhatsApp?
You cannot run GB WhatsApp alongside the official WhatsApp app on the same device and linked phone number. When installing and registering GB WhatsApp with your number, it will automatically log you out of the regular WhatsApp app if you have it installed.
However, you can install GB WhatsApp on one device and use regular WhatsApp on another device with the same number. For example, install GB WhatsApp on your Android phone but keep using WhatsApp on your iPhone with the same number.
Is GB WhatsApp Safe to Use?
There are conflicting opinions on how safe GB WhatsApp is to use. Here are some key points:
- No endorsement from WhatsApp/Meta about security
- Security practices of third-party developers unknown
- Could potentially be malware/spyware risks
- Some claim it is safe if downloaded from trusted sites
- End-to-end encryption may keep messages secure
There is no consensus if GB WhatsApp is completely safe or not. Since WhatsApp does not recommend or support it, there may be risks, especially related to your privacy and data security. Many security experts advise avoiding third-party apps that are not vetted.
Is GB WhatsApp Legal?
The legality of apps like GB WhatsApp is also debatable. Here are some considerations:
- Violates WhatsApp Terms of Service
- WhatsApp can ban accounts using unofficial third-party apps
- Potential copyright infringement of WhatsApp code
- Third-party developers not held accountable like WhatsApp
- Extra features may exploit WhatsApp in unfair ways
There are risks of WhatsApp detecting and banning accounts using GB WhatsApp. And unauthorized use of WhatsApp’s code is legally questionable. But the apps remain popular despite these concerns.
Conclusion
In summary, GB WhatsApp is an unofficial third-party app that should not be considered as a direct substitute for the original WhatsApp. While it offers more customizing options and some useful added features, it lacks the accountability, security, and support of the official WhatsApp app.
Using apps like GB WhatsApp could violate WhatsApp’s terms and pose potential security issues in some cases. It is up to each user to carefully weigh the pros and cons, and make an informed decision about whether trying GB WhatsApp makes sense for their needs despite the risks involved.