February 20, 2024 at 02:15PM
Signal has launched a beta rollout offering custom usernames to enhance privacy and communication. Users can create usernames to connect with others, without revealing their phone numbers. The feature allows for greater control over privacy settings and facilitates quick chat initiation through unique links or QR codes. This update aims to integrate user feedback and improve privacy options.
From the meeting notes, the major takeaways are:
1. Signal is launching a beta rollout that allows users to pick custom usernames to communicate with others, while keeping their phone numbers private.
2. The beta rollout has already reached the iOS beta tester limit, but iOS users can sign up for the macOS Desktop beta using their iOS account.
3. Users can set up a custom username that can replace their phone number for communication, and they can share a unique link or QR code for quick chats.
4. Usernames are not displayed on the Signal profile, can be changed or removed, and they can be used to enable a new privacy setting to control who can find and connect with users on Signal.
5. Signal President Meredith Whittaker mentioned in November 2022 and August 2023 that Signal was working on rolling out username support to enhance privacy and communication on the platform.
These takeaways emphasize Signal’s commitment to user privacy, enabling communication without the need to disclose phone numbers, and the introduction of custom usernames and associated privacy features.