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Signal vs QQ: catalog facts
Signal	QQ
Free Free; developed by a nonprofit funded by grants and donations	Free The app is offered as a download from the official site.
Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux	macOS
End-to-end encryption on every message and call using the open source Signal Protocol No ads, affiliate marketers or tracking	Large existing user base in China Combines chat with interest communities
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	Interface and site are primarily in Chinese Proprietary service run by Tencent
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Closed source
License: AGPL-3.0	License not stated
Account needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Needs internet	Needs internet
Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 20, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 1, 2026

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