Signal has launched new video calling features, which will help it to compete directly with the major video conferencing providers.
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The online technology publication TechCrunch believes that Signal’s updated platform has made it a “viable alternative” to the likes of Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet.
The feature highlights are contained within the dedicated “Calls” tab, which includes shareable call links, a call history, and the ability to place new calls.
Other features built into the California-based messaging service’s platform are a raise hand button, emoji reactions, options to view speakers and participants on the Signal Desktop, and additional call settings.
Nina Berman, Program Manager at Signal Messenger, introduced the latest features via a company blog post: “If you love group calls on Signal, but don’t want to create a group chat for every combination of your friends or colleagues, you’re in luck.
“Today we’re launching call links: Share a link with anyone on Signal and in just a tap or click they can join the call. No group chat required.
Berman continues: “To make Signal calling better overall, we’ve spent the last few months building some welcome improvements.
“All of these features are available in the latest versions of Signal for Android, iOS, and Desktop. Update Signal to try them out!”
New Video Calling Features
As well as the functionality outlined above, the “Calls” tab also offers management features, such as naming calls, manual permission to join, remove, or block people from attending a meeting.
Call links lets users create links through which anyone can quickly join a conversation, Signal points out that this saves you from having to create a group in advance and also does not require group chat, effectively streamlining the process.
A raise hand button has been added to let other meeting attendees know that you have a question, comment, or something else to contribute without interrupting a conversation or speaker.
Emoji reactions result in more “dynamic conversation”, Signal asserts. They provide users with a means of expressing themselves while, again, allowing the flow of conversation or perhaps a presentation to continue.
Additional options have also been made available to view speakers and participants while using the Signal Desktop. You can choose if you want them to appear in grid view, sidebar view, or speaker view.
Finally, updated call settings make it easier for users to switch their cameras and microphones on or off, manage your speaker source, and see who is on the call.
According to Berman, the latest features are available via its beta programme: “Try out these new features on the latest version of Signal for Android, Desktop, and iOS.
“We’ll keep on improving for Signal everyone who needs to connect with each other securely all over the world. To try out the latest features and offer crucial early feedback, join our beta!”
Signal first launched private, encrypted voice calls in 2014, followed by video calling in 2017, and group video calls in 2020.
