Send a message

After you have registered your number with Signal, you can start communicating privately with other Signal users. 

Here's how to send a message:

 

Android

  1. In Signal, tap compose android_compose.png to view your Signal contact list.
  2. Select a contact or enter a number to open that conversation.
  3. Tap the text input field.
    • You will see Signal message when you are securely communicating with another Signal user. 
       android_input_private.jpeg
    • You will see Unsecured SMS when you are sending insecure messages through your mobile plan.
       android_input_insecure.jpeg
  4. Type your message or attach a file.
  5. The send icon also indicates the message type.
    • To send a Signal message, tap the blue send icon with a closed lock.
      android_send_private.png
    • To send an insecure SMS/MMS through your mobile plan, tap and hold or long-press the send icon to switch to the gray-icon.
      android_send_insecure.png  

Having issues messaging on an Android phone? Follow these troubleshooting steps.

 

iOS

  1. In Signal, tap compose ios_compose.png to view your Signal contact list.
  2. Select a contact or enter a number to open that conversation.
  3. Tap New Message to type a message.
    ios_input.png
  4. Type your message or attach a file.
  5. Tap Send. 

 Having issues messaging from an iPhone? Follow these troubleshooting steps.

 

Desktop

  1. In Signal, scroll through your Signal contact list or select Search: 
    desktop_search.png

  2. Enter your group name, contact name, or the full phone number.
  3. Select the conversation or choose Start new conversation... after manually entering a phone number.
  4. Your conversation will appear on the right side of your contact list.
  5. Select Send a message to type a message.
    desktop_input.png
  6. To send, press Enter.

Having issues messaging from Desktop? Follow these troubleshooting steps.

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