Signal calls now work a lot more like Meet and Zoom

Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge Signal is making a bunch of improvements to calls so they are more competitive with Zoom and Google Meet, including the ability to share a link to a call. Previously, you could only initiate a call from a Signal group chat, so this new feature should make it much easier to hop on the phone with a friend or co-worker by sending them a link inside or outside of Signal. You can also re-use call links, which could be handy for recurring work meetings or a weekly chat you have with your family. Image: Signal Within calls, Signal is getting some upgrades, too, including a “raise hand” button to let people know that you have something to say and emoji reactions so you can spam your emoji feelings. And the app now has a tab... Continue reading…

  Software & Apps   Nov 12, 2024   0   22  Add to Reading List
Signal calls now work a lot more like Meet and Zoom
Illustration of the Signal logo: a white speech balloon with a dotted outline on a black and blue background.
Illustration by The Vergin

Signal, the privacy-focused messaging platform, is rolling out significant enhancements to its calling features, positioning itself as a more viable alternative to established video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Google Meet. The most notable addition is the introduction of shareable call links, a functionality that dramatically simplifies the process of initiating conversations.

This new linking capability represents a fundamental shift from Signal's previous approach, which limited call initiation to group chats. Users can now generate and share call links both within and outside the Signal ecosystem, making it substantially easier to connect with colleagues, friends, or family members. The platform has also introduced the ability to create persistent call links, enabling users to establish dedicated virtual meeting spaces for recurring events such as team meetings or regular family gatherings.

Within the calling interface itself, Signal has implemented several quality-of-life improvements designed to enhance user interaction and meeting dynamics. The addition of a "raise hand" feature provides a structured way for participants to indicate when they wish to contribute to the conversation, helping maintain order in larger meetings. The platform has also embraced modern communication conventions by incorporating emoji reactions, allowing participants to express themselves non-verbally during calls.

The update includes organizational improvements to the application's interface, introducing a dedicated tab for call-related features. This structural change suggests Signal's commitment to making its calling functionality more accessible and user-friendly, while maintaining the platform's core emphasis on privacy and security.

These enhancements collectively represent Signal's strategic effort to evolve beyond its roots as a secure messaging app, expanding into the broader digital communication landscape while maintaining its reputation for robust privacy protection. The updates acknowledge the growing importance of integrated communication tools in both professional and personal contexts, particularly in an era where remote interaction has become increasingly prevalent.