Privacy-focused messaging app Signal is adding new features for video calls, including links, reactions, and call tabs, as it aims to serve as an alternative to Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams.
The highlight of the update is the new Calls tab, where you can make new calls, manage call links, and review your call history.
Image credit: Signal
This tab allows you to create links for calls, so instead of creating a group, you can simply share the link with others, similar to what Meet, Zoom, and Teams do. Links are reusable, so you can also use them for recurring meetings.
It also provides commonly used administrative features, such as the ability to name calls, manually allow users to join meetings, and kick, delete, and block calls. Participants can line up to ask questions using a Meet-like raise-your-hand feature.
Image credit: Signal
Users using Signal's desktop app can switch between grid, sidebar, or speaker views.
Signal introduced encrypted group video calling in 2020 and now supports groups of up to 50 people. Rival WhatsApp made it possible to share links to calling features in 2022, and added support for screen sharing, speaker spotlight, and 32-person video calls in June this year.
“Video calling has become the new normal meeting place for organizations, workplaces, and friend groups around the world. As communication norms change, Signal's promise of a private place to communicate remains the same. “We've spent the past few months building some welcome improvements to improve Signal calling across the board,” the company said in a blog post.
Signal is rolling out this feature on iOS, Android, and desktop apps.