Signal – Privacy-Focused Encrypted Messenger

Free, open-source encrypted messaging app with no data collection built by nonprofit Signal Foundation.

About Signal

Signal is a free, open-source messaging application developed by the nonprofit Signal Foundation, emphasizing privacy and security above all commercial interests. The app implements end-to-end encryption by default across all communications using the Signal Protocol—the same encryption technology adopted by WhatsApp, Skype, and Facebook Messenger.

With 100 million downloads, Signal attracts privacy-conscious users including journalists, activists, and everyday people seeking surveillance-free communication. The app collects minimal user data—only your phone number for registration. Open-source code on GitHub enables independent security audits, ensuring no backdoors or hidden vulnerabilities.

Features Of Signal

  • Send text messages with end-to-end encryption enabled automatically by default
  • Make crystal-clear encrypted voice and video calls supporting up to 50 group participants
  • Create group chats with up to 1,000 members using administrator permission controls
  • Share disappearing Stories that vanish after 24 hours with granular privacy settings
  • Set optional disappearing messages that self-destruct after your chosen time interval
  • Access complete source code on GitHub for independent security verification
  • Receive no ads whatsoever—Signal funds operations through donations not advertising
  • Enjoy desktop apps for Windows, Mac, and Linux linked to your mobile device

Premium Features in the Paid Plan

  • Store backup archives indefinitely with encrypted secure backups subscription access
  • Preserve media from last 45 days in free backups with premium for unlimited retention
  • Save unlimited text message history capped at 100MB storage space per account
  • Control backup recovery keys personally without Signal server access or direct linking
  • Restore complete message history seamlessly when switching devices with backups
  • Enable automatic backup scheduling for media and message history daily
  • Choose backup storage location supporting self-hosted solutions eventually
  • Access backup files without revealing user account or payment information

Free with Signal Secure Backups at $1.99/month

Free vs Premium Comparison

Feature Free Premium
Default Encryption End-to-end encryption on all messages Same encryption standard applied everywhere
Group Size Create groups with up to 1,000 members Identical group member capacity limit
Voice/Video Calls Group calls with 50 people encrypted Same call capacity and encryption features
Disappearing Messages Set custom disappearing timers Identical disappearing message functionality
Stories Feature Share Stories disappearing after 24 hours Same Story duration and controls available
Message Backups 45-day media backup plus 100MB text Unlimited backup retention and media storage

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Signal cost anything to use?

Signal is completely free for messaging, calls, and all core features. The new $1.99/month Signal Secure Backups subscription optionally lets you store backup archives indefinitely instead of the free 45-day limit. Everything else remains permanently free forever.

Is my data really private on Signal?

Yesu2014Signal's end-to-end encryption means only you and message recipients can read conversations. Signal Foundation cannot access messages or calls. The nonprofit operates transparently with fully open-source code auditable by security experts. No metadata tracking or ad targeting.

How do I backup and restore messages?

Signal automatically backs up media from the last 45 days and 100MB of text messages free. Signal Secure Backups ($1.99/month) stores unlimited archives indefinitely. You control recovery keys personally without Signal holding them, enabling seamless device switching.

Can I use Signal on multiple devices?

Signal mobile apps work on Android and iOS independently. Signal Desktop links to your mobile device, letting you access conversations on computer. Tablet support is currently in beta testing and coming soon for Android tablets specifically.

What makes Signal different from other messaging apps?

Signal is nonprofit open-source software refusing all advertising and data monetization. The Signal Protocol provides military-grade encryption used by WhatsApp and others. 100% transparent operations with fully auditable code means no hidden surveillance capabilities whatsoever.