Signal is making it much easier for users to stay connected across multiple Android devices. The encrypted messaging platform has introduced a new beta feature that allows users to link an Android phone or tablet to their existing Signal account as a secondary device. Once enabled, the feature lets users access the same account and synchronized chat history across multiple Android devices without registering a separate phone number.
Until now, Signal users who wanted to use the app on two Android phones had to create a second account with another mobile number. The latest beta removes that limitation, bringing Android support closer to the multi-device experience already available on desktops and iPads.
Signal expands multi-device support
The new feature was first spotted by AboutSignal, which reported that Signal is currently testing secondary Android device support in its beta version. Although the company has not officially announced a public rollout date, it has already updated its support documentation with instructions explaining how the feature works.
Users can install the latest beta version of Signal on an Android phone or tablet through the Google Play Store. During the setup process on a secondary phone, instead of entering a phone number, users can tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and select “Link device.” Tablet users will see a “Link your account” option directly on the welcome screen.
The linked device will then generate a QR code that must be scanned using the primary phone. On the main device, users simply need to open Signal Settings > Linked Devices > Link a New Device to complete the pairing process.
Users can sync chat history across devices
One of the biggest additions is the ability to synchronize chat history between the primary and secondary Android devices. During setup, Signal asks users whether they want to copy existing conversations to the linked phone or tablet.
However, Signal notes that this decision cannot currently be changed afterward. If users initially choose not to synchronize their chats and later change their mind, they will need to uninstall and reinstall the app on the linked device before repeating the setup process.
The feature makes switching between multiple Android devices significantly more convenient, especially for users who carry both a personal and work phone or frequently alternate between a phone and a tablet.
Tablet interface also gets an upgrade
Alongside multi-device support, Signal is also testing a redesigned interface optimized for Android tablets. The updated layout introduces a split-screen view, placing the chat list on the left while displaying active conversations in a larger panel on the right.
The new design works particularly well in landscape mode, making better use of larger tablet displays. Users will also have the flexibility to customize the interface by hiding the chat list or adjusting the layout based on their preferences.
Although Signal has not confirmed when these beta features will become available to everyone, the latest update represents another important step toward improving its cross-device experience. Once released widely, the ability to link multiple Android devices under a single account is expected to be one of the platform’s most requested quality-of-life improvements.
