Send a message
After you have registered your number with Signal, you can start communicating privately with other Signal users.
Here’s how to send a message:
ANDROID
1 In Signal, tap compose to view your Signal contact list.
2 Select a contact or enter a number to open that conversation.
3 Tap the text input field.
* You will see Signal message when you are securely communicating with another Signal user.
* You will see Unsecured SMS when you are sending insecure messages through your mobile plan.
4 Type your message or attach a file.
5 The send icon also indicates the message type.
* To send a Signal message, tap the blue send icon with a closed lock.
* To send an insecure SMS/MMS through your mobile plan, tap and hold or long-press the send icon to switch to the gray-icon.
How do I switch between unsecured SMS and a Signal message?
Both you and your contact need to use Signal if you want to communicate privately.
If your contact is using Signal, tap and hold on the send icon to see the options.
If your contact is not using Signal, you can not switch to messaging privately. Invite them to join Signal.
iOS
1 In Signal, tap compose to view your Signal contact list.
2 Select a contact or enter a number to open that conversation.
3 Tap New Message to type a message or to select a file.
4 Tap to send.
Desktop
1 In Signal, scroll through your Signal contact list or select Search:
2 Enter your group name, contact name, or the full phone number.
3 Select the conversation or choose Start new conversation… after manually entering a phone number. It will appear on the right side of your contact list.
4 Select Send a message to type a message or to select a file
5 To send, press Enter.