Signal adds new video calling features, becoming a viable alternative to Zoom, Meet, and Teams.
The privacy-focused messaging app, Signal, is incorporating new features for video calls. These include links, reactions, and a specific tab for calls, with the aim of establishing itself as a prominent alternative in this area.
The privacy-focused messaging app, Signal, has announced the implementation of new features for video calls, including links, reactions, and a specific tab for calls. This update aims to position Signal as an alternative to platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams.
One of the standout features of this update is the new "Calls" tab. This functionality allows users to make new calls, manage call links, and review their call history. With this tab, users can create links for calls, making it easier to share them with others without needing to create a group, following a similar model to that used by Meet, Zoom, and Teams. Additionally, these links are reusable, which is useful for recurring meetings.
Call management tools are common and allow users to name sessions as well as control participant entry, including the option to allow manual entry or to expel and block individuals. A "raise hand" feature is also introduced, allowing participants to ask questions in a format similar to that offered by Meet.
Users of the Signal desktop application have the option to switch between different views: grid, sidebar, or speaker view. Signal had already introduced encrypted group video calls in 2020, capable of supporting groups of up to 50 people. Meanwhile, WhatsApp began allowing link sharing in its calls in 2022 and more recently added features such as screen sharing and focus on the speaker, extending its participant limit to 32.
The company highlights that "video calls have become a new common meeting place for organizations, workplaces, and groups of friends around the world. As communication norms change, Signal's promise to provide a private space for communication remains constant. To improve the calling experience in Signal, we have spent the last few months developing enhancements that will be well-received."
The new functionality will be gradually rolled out in Signal's iOS, Android, and desktop applications.