Signal is a popular, encrypted messaging app focused on privacy. It is an alternative to WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook Messenger and others. There is a lot to like about the app, and if you make the switch, it can even replace your SMS app.
Like its competitors, Signal is mainly used for instant messaging to other people who use the app. However, the Android app has an extra feature: it can be set as the default SMS app for your device. Unfortunately, the functionality is not available on the iPhone.
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Not only will you be able to communicate with your signal contacts, but you will also be able to send and receive text messages with your phone number. All your conversations can be in one place. Let’s do it.
Warning: SMS messages sent by Signal are ‘unsafe’, which means they are not encrypted like messages between Signal users.
First, open the Signal app on your Android device. Then tap the three-point menu icon at the top right of the app.
Select “Settings” from the menu.
Tap “SMS and MMS” at the top of the Settings menu.
You will then see ‘SMS disabled’ at the top. Select it to continue with the default.
In a pop-up window, you will be asked to select your default SMS app. Select “Signal” and tap “Set as default”.
That’s it. Sending an SMS message is the same as sending a signal message. The contact list will show people on Signal at the top, indicated in blue.
If you want to send an SMS to a signal contact for whatever reason, you can do so too. Start by typing in a message as usual.
Tap this time instead of tapping and holding the power button.
Now you have the option to switch to “Unsafe SMS.” As mentioned before, SMS messages are not encrypted like Signal messages.
The control button will now be gray with an unlock icon. Tap to send the text message.
You are ready! Now you can keep all your conversations in one place, whether it is about Signal or SMS. Keep in mind that you will not be able to access SMS via the Signal Desktop app.
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