Signal

Signal Signal is a privacy-first messaging app with end-to-end encryption for texts, voice, photos, and videos. Create large groups, make secure calls, and enjoy minimal data collection.

Signal

Signal is a social communication app built with privacy and security at its core. You can create or join group chats with up to hundreds of people at any time, then share text, voice messages, photos, and videos in different formats to swap ideas and keep up with the moments that matter. If you want to connect with people who think like you, this is designed to help you do that.

The app uses end-to-end encryption to protect both your chat history and account security. It’s also designed to avoid collecting user data, so you can use it with confidence. Signal is regularly updated, bringing new social tools and improvements to its encryption technology—so there’s always more to look forward to.

Key Features

Privacy by default

• End-to-end encryption is applied to every message and call.
• Signal can’t read your messages or listen to your calls.
• Only minimal metadata is collected.
• No ads and no trackers.
• The Signal Protocol and the app’s code are open source for public review.

Messaging that works over data

• Send texts, voice notes, photos, videos, GIFs, stickers, and files using your data connection.
• This can help you avoid SMS/MMS charges from your mobile carrier.
• Chats continue seamlessly whether you’re on mobile data or Wi‑Fi.

Secure, clear calls

• Signal supports encrypted voice and video calls with clear audio and stable video.
• You can start secure group calls with up to 50 people.



• Calls work across different countries and mobile networks.

Groups that scale

• Support for group chats with up to 1,000 members.
• Admin tools help manage members and decide who can post.



• Works well for families, clubs, classrooms, and community groups.

Privacy controls you can choose

• Set disappearing messages to automatically remove chat history on a schedule.
• Use usernames to connect without sharing your phone number.



• Encrypted stickers and privacy options for notifications help control what appears on your screen.
• Share image, text, and video Stories that expire after 24 hours.
• Choose who can view each Story.

What Stands Out

Security built for everyday use

Developed by the Signal Foundation, Signal Private Messenger is designed for people who want messaging and calling that prioritizes privacy. With end-to-end encryption enabled by default, messages, calls, media, and group chats are accessible only to the intended recipients. Cryptographic work is handled on the user’s device, helping ensure that even Signal itself can’t access your message content or metadata.

More than just chatting

Signal supports both one-on-one and group conversations. You can also make high-quality voice and video calls, and share photos, videos, and documents. Sending works quickly even on slower connections, which can be helpful in areas with limited internet speeds. Voice notes are included for added communication flexibility.

Simple design with customization

The interface is organized and easy to navigate, with recent chats shown prominently. Camera access and chat creation are quick and convenient. Account setup is straightforward: it requires a phone number, plus registration where you create a PIN for extra account protection.

You can also customize the app’s look using themes, including Dark Mode for night use. Custom notifications let you tailor alerts per conversation to reduce distractions. A built-in photo editor makes it easy to crop, add annotations, or blur images before sharing—useful for privacy-focused sharing.

User Feedback

• Many users describe Signal as a well-equipped, highly customizable messaging app, even if they aren’t technical experts.
• Daily use is often reported as smooth, though sending larger files may feel slower at times (potentially due to network conditions rather than the app).
• Common praise includes: end-to-end encryption by default, the app being free and run by a nonprofit, and not being owned by major ad-driven companies.
• Users note it supports text, voice, and video.
• One frequently mentioned missing option is “Mark as Unread”, which some people want for quickly checking a message and returning to it later.

Things to know (from reviews)

• Creating an account requires a phone number.
• Signal is run by a nonprofit, and the app may remind users of this repeatedly.
• Groups aren’t typically discoverable; you usually join via an invite link.



• It’s considered secure enough for most everyday users.
• Changing or adding devices may require extra steps.