The Signal app is known for offering encrypted instant messaging services. It has been widely used as an alternative to SMS and MMS, as well as a messaging channel for more secure communication. Sadly, the app will no longer support text messages for Android.
Its Android app is the only version that is integrated with text messaging, according to BleepingComputer, its users will have several months to transition away from the app, which gives them time to find a new app to use for instant messaging.
Why is Signal Removing Support for Text Messages?
Signal stated that they were phasing the app out of SMS and MMS from its Android version of the app since it didn't make sense anymore. This is due to the fact that Android SMS is not secure, and can be intercepted allowing mobile carriers to access message metadata.
Another concern for the company is that unencrypted messages alongside secure Signal messages may cause confusion even though they are labeled. This sort of confusion can lead people to use SMS messaging instead of Signal messaging, and lead to a hefty phone bill.
This move will affect Android users who used Signal as their default messaging app. But, will help the instant messaging service enhance user experience and prioritize security and privacy. Signal will begin notifying its Android app users to start exporting their SMS messages to a new app if they choose to do so.
According to Tech Times, users who send messages on Signal using their desktop or iOS, since the SMS integration is available on the Android app alone. There are also other alternatives available but they will not have the feature that Signal has, wherein they can change their phone numbers within the app if they please.
Read Also : This Is How You Can Set Your Messages To Disappear in Messenger for iOS and Android Devices
What Are Good Alternatives for Signal?
The time for looking for alternatives is now. Here are suggestions by alternativeto.net for secure messaging.
Telegram. The app has end-to-end encryption the same as Signal, and it works offline. You won't need to worry about ads as it has none. It also supports Cloud sync so you may synchronize your data across different devices.
Element. It is a decentralized chat app that also has end-to-end (E2E) encryption. It will not track or use your personal data, and has no Digital Rights Management.
Tox. Other than being decentralized as well, you will need no registration for this app. It allows screen sharing and also has E2E encryption. Another feature that users might put importance on is that it's also ad-free.
Wire. The same as others, it has E2E encryption, screen sharing, and is privacy-focused. Though, unlike others, it supports multiple accounts without having to log out.
Skype. It is a lightweight app and also supports screen sharing. However, some users have concerns about privacy since it is not encrypted and data is stored in Microsoft servers.
Session. Along with being based on a decentralized infrastructure, it also has E2E encryption and is a privacy-friendly app.
Related Article : The Best Secure Messaging Apps You Should Use Today
