How To Set Up and Use the Signal Messaging App

This article teaches you how to set up and use the Signal private messenger app ;Signal Messaging App on iOS and Android and how to add friends and send emojis or GIFs. The screenshots are from the Android version of Signal, but the process is very similar to iOS.

What To Know

How To Set up Signal Messaging App

The Signal text app needs to be set up first before you can use it. Here’s what you need to do to get started. If you haven’t downloaded the app yet, use one of the links below.

Download for:

1. Once you’ve downloaded Signal, open the app and tap Continue.

2. Enter your phone number to begin setup.

3. Enter the code you receive via SMS.

   This may be done automatically by your phone depending on how it’s set up.

4. Enter your name then tap Next.

5. Enter a PIN to keep the app secure from other users.
6. You’re now ready to use Signal.

How To Add Friends and Send Messages on Signal

Now that you’ve set up Signal, you can begin messaging friends through the service. Here’s how to add friends and message them.

1. Tap the pencil icon.

2. Tap a contact’s name or enter a phone number.

3. Enter a message to send.

4. Tap the arrow to the right hand side.

5. You’ve successfully messaged your friend and your chat history is now listed every time you open Signal.

How To Send Emojis or GIFs on Signal

Messaging friends and family isn’t just about sending text messages — it’s also fun to send emojis or GIFs to add a bit of personality to your chat. Signal offers both. Here’s how to send emojis or GIFs to loved ones via the service.

1. Open Signal.

2. Open or start a chat with someone.

3. Tap the smiley emoji to find the emojis you can send your friend.

4. For a GIF, tap GIF to search for a suitable GIF to send them.

5. Tap the arrow icon to send the GIF.

How To Send Photos on Signal

Sending photos via Signal is a fun thing to do, plus you get to enjoy the benefits of end-to-end encryption, so your photos and files are secure at all times. Here’s how to send a photo via Signal Private Messenger.

1. Open Signal.

2. Open the chat window of the person you wish to send a photo to.

3. Tap the plus symbol in the message bar.

4. Find the photo you wish to send.

   The first time you do this, you may need to allow access to your photos.

5. Enter a message to accompany it then tap the arrow to send it.