Signal is a popular encrypted messaging app that focuses on privacy. It's an alternative to WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook Messenger, and more. If the app is one of your favorites and really works for you, there's the option to set it as your Android device's default SMS messaging app. Unfortunately, the functionality isn't available on the iPhone.
Not only will you be able to communicate with your Signal contacts, but you'll also be able to send and receive text messages with your phone number. All your conversations can be in one place. Let's see exactly what you need to do!
First, open the Signal app on Android device. Then, tap the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner of the app.
Select “Settings” from the menu.
At the top of the Settings menu, tap “SMS and MMS.”.
Next, you will see “SMS Disabled” at the top. Select it to continue with its default setting.
A pop-up window will ask to select your default SMS app. Select “Signal” and tap “Set as Default.”
You're all set! Sending an SMS message is the same as sending a message in Signal. Your contact list will show Signal people at the top, in blue.
If for any reason you want to send an SMS to a Signal contact, you can do so. Start by typing a message as you normally would.
This time, instead of tapping the send button, tap and hold it.
Now you have the option to switch to “Insecure SMS.” As mentioned earlier, SMS messages are not encrypted like Signal messages.
The send button will now be gray with an unlock icon. Tap it to send the SMS.
You're all set! Now you can keep all your conversations, whether they're Signal or SMS, in one place. Please note that you won't be able to access SMS through the Signal Desktop app.
Information source: howtogeek.com
