Finally, users of the end-to-end encrypted messaging app Signal can choose unique usernames to connect with others while maintaining the privacy of their phone numbers.
This beta rollout comes after a public test phase conducted separately from the November-announced stable Signal messaging service.
Signa stated that” we are currently rolling out these updates to our beta users and will soon turn them on for everyone using the most recent Signal app.”
” We want to hear your opinions, make changes, and make sure everyone can easily and effectively use Signal’s phone number privacy.”
Users can create a username in Settings >, Profile ( while you can set your own custom username, all usernames will have two numbers at the end ) after installing the client beta version on their computer or mobile device.
If you use iOS Signal, you can get around Apple’s cap on the number of iOS beta testers by registering for the macOS Desktop beta ( linked to your iOS account ).
After creating your new username, you can share a special link or QR code with the people you want to start an instant chat with without having to give your phone number away.
Usernames can be changed as often as necessary or even removed entirely if you do n’t want to use one on your Signal profile.
Your saved number will still be visible to contacts, but if you choose not to share it, no one else will be able to see it.
A new, optional privacy setting can also be enabled, requiring users of Signal to enter their username rather than their phone number in order to connect with you.
On the most recent version of Signal, no one will be able to see your phone number unless they have it saved in their phone’s contacts. This can be changed in Settings, Signal says in the changelog for the iOS beta app.
To allow people to chat with you without providing your phone number, you can now set and share an optional username. You can manage who can find you on Signal using your phone number thanks to a new privacy setting.
In November 2022, Signal President Meredith Whittaker made the first mention of the company’s plans to roll out username support, which would make it possible to use encrypted messaging services without disclosing account-linked phone numbers.
We’re developing usernames that let users communicate with one another without ever giving their phone numbers away. For registration, you will still require a phone number, but you have the option of keeping it private, Whittaker added in August 2023.