Signal has taken a major step forward in video calling with its newest feature: call links. This means users can now only share a unique link to a call and invite a friend, family member, or colleague without having to create a separate group chat. While totally free, Signal’s new tool places the service in competition with video meeting platforms such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams.
Creating a call link on Signal is simple: anyone can open the app, go to a dedicated calls tab with the app, and make a unique link. The best part of all links is they can be reused whether it is a one-time catch-up or a recurring weekly meeting. Additionally, Signal offers the call admins the option to approve who can join out of the fear of calls being private and secure.
New Features for a Dynamic Call Experience
Signal has also brought in a few ways to add to the user interactions on calls. Users can also notify others they have a question, comment or generally just want to participate using a ‘Raise Hand’ button that would not interfere with the conversation. On top of that, emoji reactions draw quick back options to the discussion. You can send a thumbs up, and a shared celebration if you are celebrating. An emoji burst will happen if you share the same emoji with enough people, adding a little fun flare to the conversation.
Enhanced Call Control and Viewing Options
The latest Signal update brings changes that make it even easier to place, answer, and manage your calls. A new calls tab, appearing on mobile and desktop, features recent and open call history, to dial back contacts, read links, etc. Participants can choose Grid view, Sidebar view, and Speaker view on the desktop version to have customizable layouts according to the call dynamic.
Signal has also overhauled its call controls too. This enables users to toggle their microphone or camera more easily, change speaker sources, and look at all participants.
Signal’s new features help replace traditional video conferencing with an efficient and fun alternative (supporting up to 50 participants in group calls) without sacrificing the security and privacy your communications require.
Commitment to Secure, Private Communication
In line with its longstanding commitment to privacy and security, Signal has always prioritized privacy and security, first introducing encrypted voice calls in 2014, video calls in 2017, and group video calls in 2020. Today’s call builds further on Signal’s commitment to private communication, and signal’s signal to the world that a safe, ad-free space for group meetings, personal connections, and all forms of private communication continues to be at the app’s core. If you want to experiment with the newest tools, Signal’s latest was implemented on Android, iOS, and Desktop. Beta program to race early to help shape Signal’s evolution or try early releases.