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Status vs Signal: catalog facts
Status	Signal
Free Free to download and use.	Free Free; developed by a nonprofit funded by grants and donations
Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS	Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux
Decentralised messaging with self-custodial keys Built-in crypto wallet and web3 browser	End-to-end encryption on every message and call using the open source Signal Protocol No ads, affiliate marketers or tracking
Crypto wallet and token features add complexity for people who only want chat Communities depend on members running the desktop app	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
Open source	Open source
License not stated	License: AGPL-3.0
Not stated if an account is needed	Account needed
Not stated if it works offline	Needs internet
Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 23, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 20, 2026

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