Signal Expands Its Privacy Game: New Features Aim to Rival Zoom and Meet

Privacy-focused messaging app Signal is rolling out a series of new features for video calls, stepping up as a privacy-centric alternative to platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams. The most notable addition is a “Calls” tab, streamlining the process of creating, managing, and accessing call links and call history, similar to how other leading platforms operate.

Now, users can generate reusable call links, simplifying recurring meetings without needing a group setup. Signal’s new options also allow users to name calls, admit participants, and manage permissions with the flexibility to remove or block individuals. The platform has even added a hand-raising feature, reminiscent of Google Meet, for better call organization. Desktop users get options for grid, sidebar, or speaker views for a customized meeting experience.

Since launching encrypted group calls in 2020, Signal has supported up to 50 participants. With these upgrades, the app now competes more closely with other services like WhatsApp, which recently introduced call links and support for 32-person video calls. As Signal’s team emphasized in a blog post, the updates aim to enhance video calling while maintaining the app’s strict privacy standards, recognizing the role of video calls in today’s communication landscape.

The new features are available across Signal’s iOS, Android, and desktop apps.