Signal released a new update that made Microsoft users upset

Signal has introduced a new version of its desktop app for Windows 11 users, which prevents Microsoft's controversial Recall feature from taking screenshots of end-to-end encrypted chats. This new update includes a feature called Screen Security, which is activated by default. This means that if the Recall feature available in Copilot+ PC tries to take a screenshot of Signal chats, it will not see anything.

Signal developer Joshua Lund said in a blog post on Wednesday, May 21, “Microsoft has made many changes over the past year, but the new Recall feature still puts content appearing in apps that prioritize privacy, like Signal, at risk.”

He said, “Microsoft left us no other choice, so we are adding a security layer by default to Signal desktop on Windows 11, even if it compromises some usability.”

A feature based on AI can take a snapshot of the screen of user every couple of seconds and store it in a database where it can be searched later. This is done since users can use the photos to remember a site, email, or chat later on.

Though it drew sharp protests the moment it launched, Microsoft delayed it twice, and at last it is an optional feature and contains elements such as data encryption and a sensitive content filter, but Signal still is not content with it.

Signal's Screen Security feature in Windows 11 relies on Digital Rights Management (DRM) technology, the same technology used to stop screenshots from being taken on videos from services such as Netflix.

Microsoft's guide to developers also mentions, however, that if your app utilizes DRM, the content will no longer be accessible through Recall or any other screenshot utility. That is why Signal's approach does not technically break any rules.