Signal Launches "Call Links" Feature for Group Calls
/ 3 min read
Quick take - Signal has launched a new feature called “call links,” allowing users to easily share links for group calls without creating a group chat, as part of a series of enhancements to its calling capabilities aimed at improving user experience and privacy.
Fast Facts
- Signal has launched “call links,” allowing users to easily share links for group calls without creating a group chat, enhancing accessibility for participants.
- The new feature is part of broader improvements to Signal’s calling capabilities, including a “raise hand” button, emoji reactions, and a dedicated calls tab.
- Signal supports group calls with up to 50 participants and offers customizable approval settings for participants joining via call links.
- The platform emphasizes user privacy and has been providing end-to-end encrypted voice and video calls since 2014, adapting to modern communication needs.
- Users can join the beta program to test new features and provide feedback, with updates available for Android, iOS, and Desktop versions of the app.
Signal Introduces Call Links for Group Calls
Signal has introduced a new feature called “call links,” allowing users to share a link for group calls without needing to create a group chat. This feature enables quick access, letting anyone using Signal join a call with just a tap or click. The introduction of call links is part of a broader suite of enhancements to Signal’s calling capabilities.
Enhancements to Calling Features
These enhancements also include a “raise hand” button, emoji reactions, a dedicated calls tab, and various improvements to the overall user interface. Signal has been providing private, end-to-end encrypted voice calls since 2014. In 2017, Signal expanded its services to include video calls, and by 2020, the platform had introduced group video calls. Signal has positioned itself as a secure alternative for organizational meetings, using Signal calls instead of other popular video conferencing services that gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The launch of call links reflects Signal’s efforts to adapt to evolving communication norms while remaining committed to user privacy.
Creating and Managing Call Links
To create a call link, users can navigate to the calls tab within the Signal app. Users have the option to name the link and establish approval requirements for participants. By default, users must approve participants before they can join a call, but this setting can be customized according to user preferences. Call links are reusable, making them convenient for scheduling recurring meetings or calls, and the platform supports group calls with a capacity of up to 50 participants.
Additional features include the “raise hand” button, which allows users to signal their intent to speak without disrupting others. A visible list of raised hands is available for all participants to see, and emoji reactions provide a non-disruptive means for participants to give feedback during calls. A burst effect activates when multiple reactions are sent in quick succession.
Streamlined Access and User Experience
Signal has introduced a dedicated calls tab to streamline access to call history and management of call links. For users of the Desktop app, different viewing options for call participants are available, including Grid view, Sidebar view, or Speaker view. The call control buttons have been updated for more straightforward management of camera and microphone settings, allowing users to manage speaker source and participant visibility more easily.
These latest features are accessible in the most recent versions of the Signal app for Android, iOS, and Desktop. Users are encouraged to join the beta program to explore new features and provide valuable feedback.
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