Jan PenfratFeb 13

Here are 7 awesome (new or newish) features in @signalapp many users seem to have missed but will probably want to use.

(Some of them I think are only available on Android at the moment?)

A quick thread 🧵

(Note: If you're triggered to comment on centralisation, AWS, Google Push, or believe that Signal is secretly run by the CIA, no need to reply. We know you're there and appreciate you.)

Show threadJan PenfratFeb 13
1/ Online #backups: Since last year, #Signal offers encrypted online backups. All messages as well as media files from the last 45 days can be saved on Signal servers for free, and retrieved in case your phone breaks or is lost. That's a massive #usability improvement over the previously (and still) available local #backup option. Go activate it now!
Show threadJan PenfratFeb 13
2/ Call links: In 2024 #Signal introduced the possibility to invite people to group calls via a simple link. No need for participants to be in a joint Signal group first or be even otherwise connected on Signal. Links a temporary, can be named, and there are raise-hands and other #videoconferencing features. With the exception of breakout rooms, Signal has become a real #Zoom #Jitsi replacement :)
Show threadJan Penfrat
3/ Scheduled messages: With a long tap on the send icon, #Signal allows you to schedule messages for future sending. You can exactly define at what date and minute a message should go out. Super useful when you often draft stuff late at night but don't want to bother recipients before the morning. :)
Feb 13 at 8:53amWeb
Show threadJan PenfratFeb 13
4/ Folders: One of the greatest new #Signal features IMHO are #folders into which you can sort your conversations. Folders appear as tabs on top of the message screen, and most importantly: each folder can be muted with two clicks. An absolute lifesaver for folks like me who need to silence the dozens of cross-timezone work chat groups after office hours!
Show threadJan PenfratFeb 13
5/ QR codes and usernames: This one's a bit old but I still meet people who are unaware: there's no need any more to share your phone number with people you'd like to connect with on Signal. You've got a (recyclable) Signal #username and can show people a #QRcode to make the connection and start chatting.
Show threadJan PenfratFeb 13
6/ Polls: There may be divided opinions about the usefulness of #stickers and #gifs in #Signal, but #polls are probably nice for anyone who's tried to coordinate a movie night with friends.
Show threadJan PenfratFeb 13
7/ Custom app icons: Yes, you can now select from a variety of app icons to replace the original Signal logo. I do it because it's fun but others might need it to not draw attention to the fact they have Signal installed at all. So, this feature is nice and vital at the same time.
Show threadChewieFeb 13

@ilumium Finally!!
I thought that would have been a sensible function to implement for years!

I wish other "privacy focused" messengers would do it too"

Great news!

Show threadGharbeia, â’¶Feb 13

@chewie @ilumium

Nice.
But I'd give half of these away, with stickers free on the top, in exchange for a revamped architecture that increases the decentralisation and reduces the dependency on AWS.

Show threadRihards OlupsFeb 13
@ilumium Dang. This one not on all platforms yet, apparently.