Introduction
Signal is a popular program among people searching for a more private alternative to WhatsApp, Telegram, and Facebook Messenger. It includes a desktop software and many of the capabilities you’d expect from a chat service. We’ll demonstrate how it works.
The automated end-to-end encryption of communications is one of Signal’s main selling factors. If you’re interested in something, you presumably want it everywhere, not just on your phone. Signal’s PC software has the same privacy protections as its mobile counterpart.
You must have the Signal app installed on your iPhone, iPad, or Android smartphone in order to use Signal on the desktop. Signal for Desktop is a desktop application that is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Open the program after installing Signal for Desktop on your computer. The very first thing you’ll notice is a QR code. This is the method via which the desktop app communicates with the mobile app.
On your phone or tablet, launch the Signal app. On Android, touch the three-dot menu symbol in the top-right area, then go to Settings > Linked Devices and hit the “+” button. Tap on your profile image in the top-left corner of your iPhone or iPad to enter the “Settings” menu, then click Linked Devices > Link New Device.
Linked Devices on Android
You must grant Signal access to scan the QR code with your camera.
Android camera permissionAlign the camera with the QR code shown on the desktop app.
The phone app will prompt you to confirm that you wish to connect to the desktop app. To continue, tap “Link Device.”
We may now return to the desktop program, which will prompt you to name your machine. Enter a name and then press the “Finish Linking Phone” button.
The desktop software will sync your phone’s contacts and groups. This may take a few moments.
When that’s done, your discussions will appear in the sidebar. It should be noted that no messages will be synchronized across the discussions. This is a precautionary measure. You will see any new messages that you send from your PC or phone from now on.
The desktop UI closely resembles the smartphone app. You can use stickers, make video and voice calls, send audio messages, attach photographs and videos, and make video and voice calls.
Sticker packs that you download on your phone will be accessible on your computer immediately.
Sticker sets for desktop (left) and mobile (right) (right)That’s all! You may now use Signal from both your phone and computer at the same time. Keep in mind that if you use Signal as your Android default SMS app, the SMS chats will not display on the desktop app.
