Encrypted by default
Chats, groups, photos and voice notes use the Signal Protocol. GistUp's servers pass on sealed messages and cannot open them.
Gist freely.
Your chats stay yours.
GistUp is a chat app built for Nigeria and Africa. Every message, photo and voice note is end-to-end encrypted, it is light on data and on low-cost phones, and it warns you about common scams before you fall for them.
Coming soon to Google Play
See all features
Android first. For people aged 18 and over.
🔒 Messages are end-to-end encrypted
Hello, I sent you a 6-digit code by mistake. Please send it back to me.
⚠️ Asks for a codeNever share a code you received by SMS. GistUp, banks and real friends will never ask for it.
I don't know you. Blocking.
▶0:42
Light on data
A one-minute voice note uses about 180 KB. Data saver sends photos smaller and downloads media only when you tap, or when you are on Wi-Fi.
Safe by design
Message requests from strangers, scam warnings on your phone, one-tap block and report, and your phone number hidden unless you choose otherwise.
Backups only you can open
Back up your chats, sealed with a 64-digit key that only you hold. Restore them on a new phone in a minute.
Questions people ask
Can GistUp read my messages?
No. Messages are encrypted on your phone and can only be opened on the phones you send them to. We see who a message is for, so we can deliver it, but not what it says.
Do people see my phone number?
No. People find you by your username. You can let people who already know your number find you too, in Settings, under Who can find me. It is off unless you turn it on.
Someone I don't know messaged me. What happens?
Their message waits in Message requests. They cannot see that you read it unless you accept. You can accept, delete, block or report.
What if I lose my phone?
Install GistUp on your new phone, sign in with the same number, and restore your backup with your 64-digit key. Without the key, nobody can open the backup, including us.
Is GistUp free?
Yes. You only use your normal internet data or Wi-Fi.
Which countries can use GistUp?
Nigeria first. Ghana, Kenya and other countries will follow.