Signal is packed with small icons that each carry a specific meaning, from message ticks to locks, mics, and call controls. Here's a complete guide to every symbol you'll encounter in the app.
Hover over any icon in the preview below to instantly see what it does. Tap the bottom tabs and screens to explore different sections of the app.
This phone screen is fully interactive. Tap or hover over the icons inside to learn what each one does.
A full reference table of every icon you'll find across Signal: what it looks like, what it's called, and what it does.
| Icon | Name | Meaning / Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Mic symbol | Used to record and send voice messages. | |
| Lock symbol | Indicates that messages and calls are end-to-end encrypted. | |
| Image / Gallery | Represents a photo or gallery attachment/message. | |
| Stories | View 24-hour story updates from your contacts. | |
| Single tick | Message has been sent to the server. | |
| Double tick | Message has been delivered and read by the recipient. | |
| Pencil / New Message | Start a new secure chat or compose a message. | |
| Plus / Attach | Attach documents, media, contacts, or location. | |
| Camera | Snap a photo or video to send or share. | |
| Three-dot menu | Access extra settings, disappearing messages, or info. | |
| Search | Search through your chats and contacts. | |
| Emoji / Smile | Open the emoji, GIF, and sticker keyboard. | |
| Video Call | Start a secure end-to-end encrypted video call. | |
| Phone Call | Start a secure end-to-end encrypted voice call. | |
| Back Arrow | Return to the previous screen or chat list. | |
| Pin | Pin important chats to the top of your list. | |
| Document / File | Share document files with your contacts. | |
| Contact | Share a contact card from your address book. | |
| Location | Share your current or live location. | |
| Shield / Security | Signifies verified end-to-end encryption features. | |
| Sticker | Send custom stickers in a chat. | |
| GIF | Search and send animated GIFs. | |
| Video Off | Turn off your camera during a video call. | |
| Mute Mic | Mute your microphone during a call. | |
| End Call | Disconnect or end the current call. | |
| Switch Camera | Flip between front and rear cameras. | |
| Speaker | Toggle speakerphone on or off. | |
| Archive | Hide chats from the main list. | |
| Disappearing Messages | Timer icon indicating disappearing messages are active. | |
| Mute / Bell Off | Mute notifications for a specific chat. | |
| Missed Call | Indicates a missed voice or video call. | |
| Forward | Forward a message or media to another chat. | |
| Reply | Reply directly to a specific message. | |
| Trash / Delete | Delete a message, media, or an entire chat. | |
| Download | Download incoming media to your device. | |
| Info | View contact or group information and details. | |
| Settings | Access application preferences and account settings. | |
| Linked Devices | Manage other devices linked to your Signal account. | |
| QR Code | Scan or display a QR code to quickly add a contact. | |
| Add Contact | Add a new contact or invite friends to Signal. | |
| Block / Ban | Block a contact from communicating with you. | |
| View Once | Send media that disappears after being viewed once. | |
| Leave Group | Exit a group chat. | |
| Report | Report a contact or group for violations. | |
| Data & Storage | Manage storage and network usage in settings. |
Every Signal screen has its own set of icons. Here's exactly which icons appear where, so you always know what to look for.
The main screen showing all your active conversations.
When you are actively messaging a contact.
Viewing statuses and stories from contacts.
Your voice and video call history.
Options available when sending media.
Manage your account, privacy, and app preferences.
During an ongoing voice or video call.
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