Skype Gets End-to-End Encryption Through Signal Partnership

Microsoft has started testing a new feature called Private Conversations in Skype, which is being introduced through a partnership with Signal.

The key difference between the new feature and its typical chats is that users must specifically accept invitations to private conversations. For now, all of these conversations must be one-to-one, as no group messages are allowed.

Additionally, private conversations can only take place on the devices they’re initiated from. That means that a conversation started on a phone can’t be continued from a laptop, for instance, due to the nature of Signal’s encryption protocol.

Users also won’t be able to edit messages or forward files in private conversations, or see message previews in the main chat window.

Skype marks the third major service to adopt Signal’s protocol for end-to-end encryption. The company originally added WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger back in 2016.

The new feature is available now in Skype Insider builds for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. Microsoft has not yet announced when the feature will be rolling out to wider audiences.

[via IT Pro Today]

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