Using two WhatsApp accounts on a single Xiaomi smartphone is a challenge for many users, and perhaps you need to separate work and personal chats, manage multiple business profiles, or simply test new features of the messenger without risking the main account. Fortunately, the manufacturer has provided several formal and informal ways to solve this problem.
In this article, we will discuss 5 working methods in detail, including the built-in Dual Apps feature, third-party applications like Parallel Space, as well as alternative clients like GBWhatsApp. Each method has its pros and cons β from ease of setting up to potential security risks. You will find out which option is right for your Xiaomi model (be it Redmi Note 12, POCO X5 Mi 13 and how to avoid common installation errors.
Important: Some methods require unlocking the bootloader or installing APK-We caution against using dubious modifications that could lead to the blocking of WhatsApp account or leakage of personal data.All official methods are completely safe and do not violate the messenger policy.
1. Official method: Dual Apps function (Cloning of applications)
The most reliable and recommended method is to use the built-in Dual Apps feature (some firmware called App Cloning or Dual Apps), which is available on all Xiaomi smartphones running MIUI (starting with version 8) and allows you to create a full copy of WhatsApp with a separate account, notifications and data.
Advantages of this method:
- π 100% security β does not require root rights or third-party software
- π± Supports all Xiaomi models (Redmi, POCO, Mi)
- π Separate notifications for each account
- π Automatic updates via Google Play
To activate Dual Apps, follow the following steps:
- Open Settings β Applications β Cloning of applications (or Dual Apps).
- In the list, find WhatsApp and turn on the switch next to it.
- Confirm the creation of a clone by clicking Clone.
- On the main screen will appear a second icon WhatsApp with the mark Double.
- Open the cloned app and log in with a different phone number.
Make a backup of chats in your main account|Make sure your phone has enough memory (minimum 500MB)|Make sure the second number is not tied to another device.|Turn it off. VPN (It may interfere with authorization)-->
Note that a cloned app will consume more memory and battery power, as both accounts run in parallel, and some features (such as WhatsApp Web) may be limited to dual-app.
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If your region has Dual Apps disabled by default, try changing the region in MIUI settings to India or Russia β this often solves the problem.
2 Parallel Space: Virtual Space for WhatsApp
If your Xiaomi model doesnβt support Dual Apps (for example, on some devices with MIUI for POCO), the alternative is the Parallel Space app, which creates an isolated virtual environment in which you can install a second instance of WhatsApp or any other messenger.
How it works:
- π² Downloaded from Google Play (official app)
- π It does not require root rights, but requests permission to access files.
- π Supports multiple accounts at the same time (up to 4 free versions)
- π‘οΈ Encrypts data in virtual space
Instructions for setting:
- Install Parallel Space from Google Play.
- Open the app and add WhatsApp to the virtual space (click Add App).
- Sign in to WhatsApp inside Parallel Space with a different number.
- Set up notifications in the Settings menu β Notifications.
Dual Apps (Integrated Function)|Parallel Space|GBWhatsApp/alternative|Another method|I haven't tried it yet.-->
β οΈ Note: Parallel Spaceβs free version displays ads, and some features (such as blocking notifications) are only available on a paid subscription.
| Criteria | Dual Apps | Parallel Space |
|---|---|---|
| Requires root. | β No. | β No. |
| Support for notifications | β Yes. | β Yes (with adjustment) |
| Battery consumption | π Medium. | πβ‘ High-pitched |
| Security of data | π Maximum | π Medium (depending on settings) |
| Support for WhatsApp Web Support | β No. | β Yes. |
3. GBWhatsApp and other modified clients
For users who need advanced features (such as hiding online status, customizing themes or sending large files), modified versions of WhatsApp β such as GBWhatsApp, YoWhatsApp or FMWhatsApp β will suit. These clients allow you to use two accounts on the same device without cloning.
Advantages of modified versions:
- π¨ Deep customization of the interface (themes, fonts, icons)
- π€ Increased limit for sending files (up to 100 MB)
- π€ Ability to hide the status of "print" or "online"
- π Automatic backup of chats
But there are also serious risks:
- π« Violation of WhatsApp policy β account may be blocked
- π‘οΈ Security vulnerabilities (modified) APK often contain malicious code)
- π No automatic updates via Google Play
If you do decide to use GBWhatsApp, follow this instruction:
- Download the latest version of APK from the official website (check the hash file for viruses!).
- In your phone settings, allow installation from unknown sources: Settings β Applications β Special Rights β Installation of unknown applications.
- Install. APK-Open the file and open GBWhatsApp.
- At registration, enter the second phone number.
- In the application settings (GB Settings β Dual Accounts) activate the option Use two accounts in one device.
What happens if WhatsApp blocks your account?
β οΈ Warning: Modified customers often contain spyware or advertising modules. APK-File via VirusTotal and avoid sites with suspicious domains (e.g. gbwhatsapp.com).
4. Install a second WhatsApp via a second user profile (Android 12+)
On Xiaomi smartphones with Android 12 and later (for example, Xiaomi 13, Redmi Note 12 Pro+), a multiplayer feature is available. It allows you to create a separate profile with your own applications, including a second WhatsApp. This method is completely legal and does not require third-party programs.
How to set up:
- Open Settings β System β Multiplayer mode.
- Click Add User and follow the instructions.
- Switch to a new profile through the notification panel.
- In the new profile, install WhatsApp from Google Play and log in with a different number.
Features of this method:
- π When you switch profiles, all applications are closed (inconvenient for quick access).
- π± Requires additional memory (each profile takes up a large amount of memory) ~1-2 GB).
- π Notifications are only available in an active profile.
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Multiplayer is the only official way to use two WhatsApps on one Xiaomi WITHOUT cloning or third-party apps.Suitable for Android 12 and later devices.
5. Rooting and Installation via Titanium Backup (for advanced users)
This method is only suitable for power users, as it requires unlocking the bootloader and obtaining root rights, and allows you to create a full copy of WhatsApp with a separate database, but it comes with security risks and device warranty.
Pre-launch warnings:
- π¨ Reset to factory settings when unlocking the bootloader (will delete all data!).
- π§ Loss of warranty on the device.
- π‘οΈ Risk of installing malware when using unofficial firmware.
If you are prepared for the risks, follow the instructions:
- Unlock the bootloader through the official Xiaomi tool.
- Install custom recovery (such as TWRP) and get root rights through Magisk.
- Install Titanium Backup from Google Play.
- Create a backup of WhatsApp in Titanium Backup.
- Restore a copy under a new package name (e.g. com.whatsapp2).
- Sign in to a new copy with a different number.
β οΈ Note: After unlocking the bootloader on some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi) K50) Widevine is no longer working L1, Netflix and other streaming services reduce the quality of video 480p.
Comparison of all methods: which one to choose?
To make the choice easier, we have compiled a comparative table taking into account security, complexity of configuration and functionality:
| Method | Security | Difficulty | Support for notifications | WhatsApp Web | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dual Apps | βββββ | β | β Yes. | β No. | All Xiaomi models with MIUI |
| Parallel Space | ββββ | ββ | β Yes. | β Yes. | Any Android devices |
| GBWhatsApp | ββ | βββ | β Yes. | β Yes. | Users who need advanced features |
| Multiplayer mode | βββββ | ββ | β οΈ Only in an active profile | β Yes. | Xiaomi on Android 12+ |
| Titanium Backup (root) | ββ | βββββ | β Yes. | β Yes. | Advanced users |
Selection recommendations:
- π₯ For most users, the best option is Dual Apps (maximum security and simplicity).
- π₯ If you need advanced features (status hiding, large files), try Parallel Space.
- π₯ Modified Customers (GBWhatsApp) will only work if you are willing to risk your account.
- π§ Multiplayer mode is convenient for the complete separation of work and personal data.