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
- In Signal, tap compose
to view your Signal contact list. - Select a contact or enter a number to open that conversation.
- Tap the text input field.
- You will see Signal message when you are securely communicating with another Signal user.
- You will see Unsecured SMS when you are sending insecure messages through your mobile plan.
- Type your message or attach a file.
- The send icon also indicates the message type.
- To send a Signal message, tap the blue send icon with a closed lock.
- 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.
How do I switch between unsecured SMS and a Signal message?
Both you and your contact need to use Signal if you want to communicate privately.
- If your contact is using Signal, tap and hold on the send icon to see the options.
- If your contact is not using Signal, you can not switch to messaging privately. Invite them to join Signal.
Having issues messaging on an Android phone? Follow these troubleshooting steps.
iOS
- In Signal, tap compose
to view your Signal contact list. - Select a contact or enter a number to open that conversation.
- Tap New Message to type a message or
to select a file.
- Tap
to send.
Having issues messaging from an iPhone? Follow these troubleshooting steps.
Desktop
- In Signal, scroll through your Signal contact list or select Search:
- Enter your group name, contact name, or the full phone number.
- Select the conversation or choose Start new conversation... after manually entering a phone number. It will appear on the right side of your contact list.
- Select Send a message to type a message or to select a file
- To send, press Enter.
Having issues messaging from Desktop? Follow these troubleshooting steps.