Signal

2024. Signal makes group video calls more convenient



Signal has added new features for group video calls, making it a viable alternative to Zoom, Google Meet and Microsoft Teams. The new "Calls" tab lets you create new calls, manage video call links, and view call history. Instead of creating a group, you can now simply share a call link, like in Zoom or Teams, and use that link for recurring meetings. You can also name calls, manually approve participants, remove them, or block them. Participants can raise their hand to ask a question, just like in Google Meet. On the desktop version of Signal, users can switch between different views: grid, sidebar, or presenter view.


2024. Signal now allows to hide your phone number



Signal is introducing a new privacy option. You can now hide your phone number so that strangers won't see it in chats, private messages, and calls. Only your photo (if available) and @name are visible. Only people who have it saved in their contacts will be able to see your number, but this can be restricted in the settings. To make your number invisible, you need to create a unique username. This is not your profile name; others won't see it. It's necessary so that people can contact your account with a hidden number. You can change your unique username multiple times. You can also generate a QR code or link that will direct people to your account. However, your phone number will still be required to register in the app.