


Here's our guide on how to use Signal.Įnd-to-end encryption isn't enabled by default

User-friendliness without compromising on security makes Signal a fantastic option for users looking for an encrypted messaging and calling app. But unlike Facebook, Signal's parent company is a non-profit foundation created by an anarchist cryptographer and one of the founders of WhatsApp.Įase of use and strong, open-source, regularly audited encryption makes Signal a favorite of the security-conscious, with accolades from Edward Snowden and other privacy advocates. Signal's encryption protocol is so strong that WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger use it too. In fact, you can even change phone numbers while keeping Signal account data as long as you're staying on the same device. You can transfer Signal accounts from one Android phone to another and from one iOS device to another. Updates to the app have added user-friendly features such as custom wallpapers and animated stickers, and Signal group video chats can now have up to 40 participants.Īll Signal messages can be set to self-destruct after a certain amount of time while a Chrome browser plugin lets you use Signal from your desktop as well. And Facebook has continually updated Messenger's look, with an emphasis lately on making things more streamlined.You can send text messages, voice calls, group messages, media and attachments to your phone contacts, all without having to mess with PIN codes or special login credentials.

Users sign in via Facebook and can send other users the usual chat messages, as well as voice messages and voice and video calls to other Messenger users, with extra features like GIF support and photo and location sharing. Messenger users can now chat with people on Instagram without having to fire up that app.Įven with the constant influx of features, Facebook Messenger works as it did before. Last year, for example, launched Facebook Messenger Rooms, a video chat feature that will support up to 50 people. And there's a good reason people stick with the service: Not only does Messenger draw on Facebook's extensive reach, allowing you to message all your friends on the social network, Facebook continues to add features. While Facebook's attitude toward user data has turned off some users, Facebook Messenger remains a popular choice among the best chat apps.
