Recently, I decided to try out Signal, the messaging platform that has gained significant attention following endorsements from tech giants like Elon Musk and Jack Dorsey. Admittedly, I was curious about the buzz surrounding the app. While I wasn’t expecting to find many familiar faces, I was surprised to discover over 50 of my contacts already using it.
This surge in popularity comes in the wake of WhatsApp’s controversial privacy policy update, which has driven more than 100,000 new users to Signal within days.
What is Signal?
Signal is a cross-platform messaging app available on iPhone, Android, iPad, Windows, Mac, and Linux. Known for its tagline “Say Hello to Privacy,” Signal offers end-to-end encryption, ensuring that messages and calls remain secure and inaccessible to third parties. Interestingly, the same encryption protocol used by Signal is also utilized by WhatsApp.
The app was developed by Moxie Marlinspike, a renowned cryptographer who also serves as the CEO of Signal Messenger. Unlike WhatsApp, Signal is managed by the non-profit Signal Foundation, co-founded by Marlinspike and Brian Acton—an ex-WhatsApp co-founder. Acton, who parted ways with WhatsApp in 2017, invested $50 million into Signal to support its development.
Why Signal Stands Out
As a non-profit entity, Signal isn’t driven by the need to monetize user data for advertising. This commitment to privacy has made it a preferred choice for activists and organizers. For instance, Signal was widely used during the Black Lives Matter protests in the U.S. and the #EndSARS movement in Nigeria, particularly amid concerns about government surveillance.
Key Features
Signal offers standard messaging app features such as text messaging, voice and video calls, media sharing, and group chats. Here are some noteworthy aspects:
- Group Chats: Signal limits groups to 150 members. Instead of automatic additions, group invites are sent, and users must accept to join—providing more control compared to WhatsApp and Telegram.
- Message Controls: Signal allows users to reply to specific messages, react with emojis, and delete messages using the “Delete for Everyone” option, similar to WhatsApp.
- Disappearing Messages: A disappearing message feature lets users set messages to vanish after intervals ranging from 5 seconds to one week.
- Minimal Data Collection: Signal prioritizes user privacy by collecting minimal data while offering robust functionality.
Challenges to Mainstream Adoption
Despite its many features, Signal’s success depends on widespread user adoption. Social networks thrive when they connect large numbers of friends, colleagues, and family. For now, while many new users are exploring Signal, its longevity will depend on how many of their connections join the platform.
Signal has certainly positioned itself as a strong contender in the messaging space, especially for privacy-conscious users. However, only time will tell if it can sustain its growth and become a mainstream communication tool.
