What is Signal?
Signal is a messaging app for phones and computers. You can send texts, voice messages, photos, videos, GIFs and files, and make voice and video calls, all over your data connection. Group chats keep friends, family and coworkers in one place.
Everything is end-to-end encrypted with the open source Signal Protocol, so Signal cannot read your messages or listen to your calls. There are no ads, affiliate marketers or tracking. Signal is run by the Signal Technology Foundation, a nonprofit funded by grants and donations.
Main Features
- End-to-end encrypted messages and calls
- Voice and video calls
- Group chats
- Photos, videos, GIFs, voice notes and files
- Encrypted stickers, including your own packs
- No ads and no trackers
- Apps for Android, iPhone, iPad, Windows, Mac and Linux
- Secure Backups of your chats
How to Get Started with Signal
- Open signal.org and choose Get Signal.
- Install the app on your phone.
- Register with your phone number.
- Start a chat or call with a contact who uses Signal.
- Link the desktop app if you want Signal on your computer.
Signal Pricing
Signal is free for everyone. Secure Backups are free for your text messages and the last 45 days of media, and a paid plan keeps older media.
Who Should Use It?
- Anyone who wants private messaging
- Families and friend groups
- Journalists and activists
- People who want calls without long distance charges
- Teams that want an encrypted group chat
Signal Alternatives
- Jitsi Meet is a free, open source video calling app in the browser.
- Wormhole sends files with end-to-end encryption.
- CryptPad is an encrypted online office suite for working together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Signal free?
Yes. Messages, calls and groups are free. The only paid option is a Secure Backups plan for media older than 45 days.
Can Signal read my messages?
No. Messages and calls are end-to-end encrypted, so Signal cannot read or listen to them.
Does Signal show ads?
No. Signal has no ads, no affiliate marketers and no tracking.
Does Signal work on a computer?
Yes. There are desktop apps for Windows, Mac and Linux that link to your phone.
Who runs Signal?
Signal is run by the Signal Technology Foundation, a nonprofit.