Signal Private Messenger

Signal Private Messenger is a secure messaging app that puts privacy first, letting you send texts, voice notes, photos, videos, GIFs and files while making encrypted voice and video calls over your data connection. Signal Private Messenger is designed for users who want private, ad-free communication and provides end-to-end encryption, an open-source protocol, and controls for groups and ephemeral Stories. The app supports large group chats and clear group calls, making it a suitable choice for individuals, teams, or communities that need dependable, confidential messaging.

Key Features

Send text messages, voice messages, photos, videos, GIFs and files without SMS or MMS fees by using your data connection. Make encrypted voice and video calls with clear audio and support for group calls of up to 40 people. Create group chats for up to 1,000 participants and use admin permissions to control who can post and manage members. Share ephemeral Stories that disappear after 24 hours and use granular privacy settings to control who sees each Story. The app is built on an open-source end-to-end encryption protocol and is designed to minimize data collection.

Advantages

Strong end-to-end encryption keeps messages and calls private from third parties and the service operator. The open-source design and non-profit development model provide transparency and a focus on user privacy. The app is free to use and is developed without advertising or investor-driven data collection. It supports large group chats and high-quality group calls while offering admin controls for community management.

Disadvantages

The app requires an active internet or data connection for messaging and calls, so it will not replace offline SMS. Group voice and video calls are limited to 40 participants, which may be restrictive for very large meetings. Signal Private Messenger requires Android 5.0 or later, so older devices are not supported.

Development Team

Signal Private Messenger is developed by the Signal Foundation, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on privacy-first communication and funded by donations rather than advertising or investors.

Version Information

The current stable release is version 7.26.1 (updated November 27, 2024); recent updates include a refreshed logo and chat folders for organizing conversations, and the app runs on Android 5.0 and newer.