Signal offers an encrypted alternative to Zoom – see how it works

On Monday, Signal announced a series of improvements to video calling, including “call federation” that makes the encrypted messaging app more competitive with video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Google Meet, while retaining Signal’s privacy advantages for users determined to keep their personal information private. data from being collected.

Also: Google Meet has emoji reactions, filters, and mobile screen sharing

Signal’s call linking feature allows users to share a link to start a video call with other Signal users — no group chat required.

According to one blog postSignal users can “share a link with anyone on Signal and with just a tap or click, they can join the call.” Furthermore, “Call Links joins a suite of other features to improve Signal calls including a raise hand button, emoji reactions, a dedicated calls tab, and several improvements to the look and feel of calls Signal.”

Also: Signal reveals how far US law enforcement will go to get information about people

Signal first introduced end-to-end encrypted private voice calls in 2014. Previously, you could only initiate a call from a Signal group chat; This new feature makes it easier for you to make calls by sending a friend, colleague or family member a link inside or outside Signal. The company says it sees this new feature as “a replacement for surveillance-heavy video meeting services,” thus maintaining its promise of providing “a private place to communicate.”

Last year, Zoom got into big trouble Provide customer data into it artificial intelligence programs, promoting public scrutiny of how people’s data and content are collected and used to train AI without their consent.

Signal is also getting a number of other upgrades, including a “raise hand” button that will notify people when you have something to say, emoji reactions, and a dedicated calls tab that will detail schedules user’s call history.

Here’s how to create a call link

First, open Signal on your phone or desktop and tap the calls tab. Then click to create a call link. By default, you’ll have to approve people before they can join the call. Links are also reusable and can be used for recurring meetings.

New calling features are available on the latest Signal version above Android, iOSAnd desktop computer.