Signal adds a host of features in the wake of the WhatsApp exodus

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Just over a week after an influx of runaway WhatsApp users brought it down for much of the day, Signal is doing its best to prevent those people from returning to Facebook’s chat app. . Its latest beta, spotted by WABetaInfo, adds a number of features, all of which should be familiar to you if you are one of those people who quit WhatsApp after announcing its disastrous privacy policy change.

For starters, you will find a new option to set independent wallpapers for all your chats. This is a fun personalization feature that is part of a variety of messaging apps, not just WhatsApp. In particular, Signal was missing where your customization options were limited to choosing between light and dark modes. Another new personalization feature lets you write a short status update that other people can see as they browse their contact list. Signal has a few suggestions such as “Chat for free” and “Take a break” to get you started.

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Also new in this update are support for animated stackers and Signal’s first sticker pack, “Day by Day”. A corresponding update to the desktop client lets you create your own stickers, which you can share with friends and family.

On a practical level, the update introduces a low data volume mode for calls and an option that lets you set a destination for files to download automatically. You will also find a new feature that allows you to send group share invitations to your friends. Finally, Signal has improved its group call functionality so that you can now include seven other people in a call rather than five in total.

Again, all of these features are features that you will find in other chat apps, not just WhatsApp. But if you’re one of those people who ditched WhatsApp for Signal, they should help make you feel more at home.