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KakaoTalk vs Signal: catalog facts
KakaoTalk	Signal
Free Free to use for messaging and calls.	Free Free; developed by a nonprofit funded by grants and donations
Windows	Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux
Free messaging plus voice and video calls Chat folders and editable sent messages	End-to-end encryption on every message and call using the open source Signal Protocol No ads, affiliate marketers or tracking
Official information is mostly in Korean Includes social and short-form video features beyond plain messaging	Requires a phone number that can receive an SMS or phone call to register Desktop app requires Signal to be installed on a phone first
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Closed source	Open source
License: Proprietary	License: AGPL-3.0
Not stated if an account is needed	Account needed
Needs internet	Needs internet
Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 2, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 20, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.