Signal is widely regarded as being a secure messaging platform that values privacy.
While Signal remains what like how it was, the privacy-focused messaging app has introduced a host of new features and tools that should instantly make it familiar to anyone who uses other big-name online collaboration tools.
Although privacy and safety will remain at the forefront of the platform, Signal group calls is becoming a bit more social.
In the announcement in a blog post, Signal said that:
We’ve improved private group video calls in Signal with new features, incl. call links.
Create a link that anyone on Signal can use to join a group call *without* having to join a Signal group chat first
+ raise hand, emoji reactions, calls tab, & more https://t.co/EF32bROeFK— Signal (@signalapp) November 11, 2024
Before this, users have to create a new group chat before starting a new group call. They should then add the members manually.
But with Call Links, users can simply create a link, and share that link to anyone.
Signal users can use the link to quickly join the call.
Initially the limit to a group call is 50 participants.
It's worth noting that once a Call Link is created for audio/video calls, it's reusable, and include granular admin controls.
To create a call link, users can open Signal on their phone or computer, and navigate to the calls tab.
Then, they can tap or click to create a call link.
"You can decide if you want to name your link and whether you want to have control over approving people who want to join or if anyone can join without approval. By default, you’ll have to approve people before they can join a call," explained Signal.
Available on Signal on Android, iOS, and Signal Desktop, the feature is designed to work seamlessly, like joining a Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or a Google Meet call from a URL.
"To make Signal calling better overall, we’ve spent the last few months building some welcome improvements," said Signal.
Besides the Call Links feature, Signal has added:
- Raise hand button to let people know that users have a question, a comment, or a joke to make without interrupting the flow of conversation.
- Emoji reactions in calls to make for a more dynamic conversation.
- Dedicated calls tab on the home screen to see all of call history in one place.
- More options to view speakers and participants when using Signal Desktop.
- Updated call settings to more easily toggle the camera and mic on or off
"Today, Signal as an organization runs all of our meetings using Signal calls, treating them as a substitute for the surveillance-heavy video meeting services that grew in popularity after COVID hit," Signal said.
The company also admitted that it's far from being the only fish in the sea.
"We know we’re not alone here. Video calls have become a new normal meeting place for organizations, workplaces, and groups of friends all over the world. As communication norms change, Signal’s promise of a private place to communicate stays the same," Signal added.