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Telegram vs Signal: catalog facts
Telegram	Signal
Free The apps are 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
Chats sync across phones and desktop computers Large groups, channels and bot platform	End-to-end encryption on every message and call using the open source Signal Protocol No ads, affiliate marketers or tracking
Relies on Telegram's central servers Apps are open source but the server software is not published	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, Hosted service	Downloadable app
Open source	Open source
License: GPL-3.0	License: AGPL-3.0
Account 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.