Signal is testing usernames so you don’t have to share your phone number

Messaging service Signal is testing support for usernames as a replacement for phone numbers to serve as user identities.

Signal provides encrypted instant messaging and is popular among people that value their privacy. Compared to more popular services like WhatsApp, Signal offers more layers of privacy protection, customization of settings, and enhanced data security. These layers include hiding metadata, not using a user’s data, allowing call relay, and others.

The current Signal setup requires users to sign up with a …

don encrypted identities instant messaging messaging numbers people phone phone number phone numbers popular privacy protection service services share signal support testing usernames value whatsapp