Signal has released new beta versions of its apps. In addition to bug fixes, the developers are working hard on new features. What can you expect soon?
Polls in Signal
Signal is actively developing polls for iOS, Android, and Desktop. With polls, you can ask a question in a group chat and offer multiple answer options, allowing group members to vote easily.
The feature is already well-developed, and you can take a first look at screenshots of Polls in Signal here.
Improvements to Signal Secure Backups and local backups
The recently launched Signal Secure Backups are still in beta and are being continuously improved. Signal Secure Backups are hosted by Signal itself. Eventually, new local backups for Android, iOS, and Desktop will also become available. Android already supports local backups, but they’re being significantly enhanced.
Backups will also work cross-platform, meaning you’ll be able to transfer your chat history easily from Android to iOS, and vice versa.
Chat folders for Desktop
If you use Signal Desktop, you’ll soon be able to organize your chats with chat folders and customize them however you like. You can sort by chat type (1:1 chats or groups) or personalize them in full—for example, create separate folders for friends and family, and another for colleagues. Chat folders allow you to find your important chats with a single click.
Chat folders are already available on Android, and the first hints of Desktop chat folders were discovered in July. The feature will eventually come to iOS as well, although there are no indications of it in the iOS source code yet.
Support for Android tablets and foldable phones
There’s also good news for Android tablet and foldable phone users: Signal is working on large-screen support, meaning you’ll soon be able to use Signal on Android tablets and foldable phones. iOS users have already been able to use Signal on iPads for some time.
A bit more patience, more features coming soon
It’s not yet known when the new features will be available. Signal doesn’t share timelines and only releases features once they’re fully ready and tested.
However, based on the source code, it seems that polls across all platforms and chat folders in Signal Desktop will be rolled out in the very near future.
Signal is also working behind the scenes on even more improvements. The organization rarely announces new features in advance, but as soon as there’s news, you’ll find it on our website and social media channels.
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