Signal has introduced broader linked-device support, allowing users to connect additional Android phones, Android tablets, and iPhones to an existing Signal account.
The changes are rolling out with Signal Android version 8.20 and Signal iOS version 8.22.
Signal developer Jim Lund detailed the technical and interface work behind the expansion, explaining that Android users can now link another phone or tablet, while iOS users can link an additional iPhone alongside Signal’s existing iPad support.
Signal is a privacy-focused messaging service operated by the nonprofit Signal Foundation. The platform provides end-to-end encrypted messaging, voice calls, and video calls, and publishes its client software as open source. Until now, its linked-device support primarily focused on desktop computers and iPads.
When linking a new Android phone, tablet, or iPhone, users can optionally transfer their complete message history and up to 45 days of saved media. Signal said the transfer is fully end-to-end encrypted and uses the same “link-and-sync” system introduced in 2025 for its desktop and iPad applications.
Users who do not want to copy previous conversations can skip the transfer and begin using the linked device without historical messages.
The Android release also includes interface changes designed for tablets, foldable phones, and devices with unusual screen dimensions. Signal’s older Android interface was built around single-screen activities, an approach that became less suitable as larger displays and foldable devices became more common.
Signal said it recently completed more of its transition to modern Android navigation and interface libraries. This work enabled tablet support and improved layouts that can display conversations more effectively across wider screens.
On iOS, the development process involved adapting Signal’s existing iPad linking interface to work on smaller iPhone displays. Signal for iPad has supported linked-device operation since November 2019, giving the development team an established foundation for the new phone-sized layouts.
Some features remain unfinished on larger Android devices. Signal identified the Settings interface, in-app camera, and full keyboard shortcut support as areas still being improved. Chromebooks can also run Signal through the latest Android releaseu, although more extensive Chromebook-specific interface optimization is planned.
Users should update to Signal Android 8.20 or Signal iOS 8.22 through the Google Play Store or Apple App Store when the releases become available. After linking a device, users should regularly review the linked-device list in Signal’s settings and remove any phone, tablet, or computer they no longer recognize or use.
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