Link Signal devices: desktop and Android tablet setup

Which devices can be linked?

Alongside desktop and iPad, Signal supports linking another iPhone, Android phone or Android tablet. This gives people who switch between screen sizes more ways to manage conversations.

Keep your phone as your primary device, type longer messages on a computer and view photos on a tablet. Start with the extra device you use most, then expand as you become familiar with linking. This is usually easier to manage than adding many at once.

From installation to QR linking

Set up Signal on your primary phone and update both apps first. Keep the primary device nearby. The new device’s linking option appears during initial setup after installation or reinstallation.

1. Install the version for your computer, phone or tablet. Desktop shows a QR code when opened; on other devices, choose device linking during initial setup.
2. On your primary phone, open Signal Settings → Linked Devices → Link New Device, then authenticate with your phone’s unlock method.
3. Scan the new device’s QR code, choose whether to transfer history, wait for setup to finish and send a message to check it works.

Before scanning, make sure the screen belongs to the device you are setting up. Give it a recognizable name so it is easy to identify later.

Choose whether to bring your history

When linking a new device, you can transfer your full message history and media saved in the last 45 days. Transfers are end-to-end encrypted. You can also skip history and receive new conversations from that point onward.

The choices suit different needs. History helps continue old discussions on a personal computer used long-term. A device intended only for new conversations can skip it. “Full message history” does not mean photos and videos from all past years will transfer.

Keep your device list clear

An account can link up to 5 devices. The primary phone must come online at least every 30 days. Linked devices are unlinked after 45 days of inactivity. Relinking requires the primary registered device.

Review Linked Devices after changing computers, lending a tablet or ending temporary use. Unlink devices you no longer use and manage their local data. Also check screen locks and system accounts: an unlocked device can expose chat content.

Link, transfer or back up: which should I choose?

Linking adds another everyday access point. Replacing your primary phone requires a chat transfer or backup restoration, with different steps and requirements. Being able to read chats on a computer does not mean you are ready to replace your phone.

Transfers between phones on the same platform usually require both devices. Optional Signal Secure Backups are for restoration and protect content with a recovery key. Choose based on old-phone availability, platform changes and existing backups before handling the old device.

• Adding a computer or tablet: start with device linking.
• Replacing the primary phone: check transfer or restoration first.
• Prepare for a lost or damaged device: learn about backups and how to store your recovery key.

Having trouble? Check these first

If the linking option is missing, check that the new device is in initial setup. Do not confuse registering a new account with linking an existing one. Do not delete an app with local chat history simply to look for the option.

If QR linking fails, check camera permission, both devices’ connections and app versions. If history seems incomplete, check whether you chose to transfer it and whether text or older media is missing. Note the exact step where it stopped and consult our linking guide instead of repeatedly reinstalling.