Video calls: Signal wants to compete with Teams and Zoom
The messenger Signal has set itself the goal of competing with Zoom and Teams in the field of video conferencing.
(Image: Daniel Constante/Shutterstock.com)
Signal will make it possible to send call links in future. Up to 50 people can then take part in a video conference via these links. As the operator writes in a press release, the messenger wants to compete with other video conferencing providers such as Zoom and Teams. Of course, Signal attaches particular importance to ensuring that the calls are secure.
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Previously, it was also possible to hold large video conferences via Messenger. However, this required all participants to be in a shared group, which was then used to start the call. With the new link, it is now also possible to follow a call outside of groups. The link can be distributed via all common channels. "We have already made some improvements to Signal's video conferencing functions in recent months," says Martin Bartenberger, Manager for the DACH region at Signal: "For example, the maximum number of participants has been increased to 50 and popular functions such as 'raise hand' and emoji reactions have been implemented." Signal now wants to position itself even more strongly in the field of video conferencing.
Signal video conferences are encrypted
All voice and video calls at Signal are end-to-end encrypted. This also applies to the call links. To ensure that not just anyone can join a call via a link, call link creators can specify whether they can join immediately or must first be approved.
A call link can be used for several calls. You can therefore meet and arrange to meet regularly using a link. Whoever creates the link can also delete it. If a link is not used, it expires automatically after 90 days. To create a call link, there will be a selection of the same name at the bottom of the screen. You can give the link a name.
Call links are available with the current Signal version (Android 7.21, iOS 7.34, Desktop 7.30).
Zoom, Teams and Co. have already established themselves in video conferencing during the lockdown during the coronavirus pandemic. Zoom has generously expanded its portfolio since then. The service now offers Workplaces, an office solution that includes everything that Microsoft has up its sleeve. The co-pilot is called AI Companion, for example. WhatsApp has also been offering encrypted video calls for a long time.
(emw)
