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Signal is available for Android 6.0 (API level 23) and later. There are three ways to install it: through the Google Play Store, by downloading the APK directly from signal.org, or by opting into the beta channel on the Play Store.

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System requirements

Signal targets Android 15 (API 35) and is compiled against the Android 36 SDK, so it takes advantage of the latest platform APIs while remaining compatible with devices running Android 6.0.

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Install from the Play Store

This is the recommended method for most users. The Play Store handles automatic updates.
1

Open the Play Store

On your Android device, open the Google Play Store app.
2

Search for Signal

Search for Signal Private Messenger. The publisher is Signal Messenger LLC.
The official package name is org.thoughtcrime.securesms. If a result shows a different package name, do not install it.
3

Install

Tap Install and wait for the download to complete.
4

Open Signal

Tap Open once the installation finishes, then follow the registration steps to set up your account.

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Install from signal.org (sideloading)

Signal publishes a self-updating APK at signal.org/android/apk. This build (websiteProdRelease) manages its own updates: once installed, it checks for new versions automatically using https://updates.signal.org/android/latest.json and prompts you to update when one is available. Use this method if your device does not have access to the Play Store.
1

Allow installation from unknown sources

On Android 8.0 and later, go to Settings → Apps → Special app access → Install unknown apps and enable the permission for your browser or file manager.On Android 7.1 and earlier, go to Settings → Security and enable Unknown sources.
Only install APKs from sources you trust. The official Signal APK is published at signal.org. Verify the SHA-256 hash of the download before installing if you want to confirm authenticity.
2

Download the APK

In your browser, navigate to signal.org/android/apk and tap the download link. The file will save to your Downloads folder.
3

Open the APK

Open your Files or Downloads app, locate the Signal APK, and tap it to begin installation. Confirm any prompts asking you to allow the install.
4

Complete setup

After installation, open Signal and follow the registration steps.
The website APK compresses its native libraries (armeabi-v7a, arm64-v8a, x86, x86_64) to keep the download size smaller — a deliberate difference from the Play Store build.

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Join the beta program

Signal’s beta channel receives new features and fixes before they reach stable. Beta builds may occasionally contain bugs.
1

Enroll on the Play Store testing page

Visit the beta testing page at:
Tap Become a tester and confirm enrollment.
2

Update Signal

Open the Google Play Store, find Signal, and tap Update if one is available. From this point on, your device will automatically receive beta builds.
3

Leave the beta program

To return to stable releases, go back to the same testing page and tap Leave the program. Uninstall and reinstall Signal from the Play Store to downgrade to the current stable release.
You cannot downgrade from a beta version to an older stable version without uninstalling and reinstalling. Uninstalling will delete your local message history unless you have a backup.

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Verify your installation

After installing, open Signal. You should see the welcome screen, which offers options to register a new account, restore from a backup, or transfer from an existing device. Proceed to registration to complete setup.