Jack Dorsey and other bitcoiners are backing an initiative to integrate bitcoin into Signal using the Cashu protocol.
Several bitcoiners, along with Jack Dorsey, are pushing for the messaging app Signal to adopt Bitcoin payments. According to the initiative’s promoters, this integration would align with the platform’s privacy-focused mission and could help it achieve financial independence.
The campaign, called “Bitcoin for Signal,” proposes integrating the asset through the Cashu protocol and its “Chaumian Ecash” system. Developer Calle shared the campaign on X, receiving public support from Dorsey, who commented:
The goal of the initiative is to allow Signal users – who already rely on the platform daily to protect their conversations from surveillance and data collection – to send and receive money privately and securely. Supporters argue that integrating bitcoin would enable instant, global transfers without the need for banks, intermediaries, or extra apps.
The benefits of bitcoin on Signal
The campaign website reads: “Bitcoin belongs in Signal. Cashu ecash enables truly private BTC payments inside the world’s most trusted encryption messenger.” Supporters also highlight that Bitcoin could help the service achieve financial independence, as Signal currently relies on donations and external funding.
With Bitcoin payments on Signal, users could send small donations or tips directly within the app to help keep Signal free and open source.
Other prominent figures in the community have also voiced their support, including developer Peter Todd and Satoshi Labs co-founder Pavol Rusnak.
Peter Todd also criticized Signal’s current payment option, MobileCoin (MOB), stating:
“I’ve been wanting to try MobileCoin. But it’s such a failure I can’t even buy any. Signal App needs to accept reality and just add Bitcoin support.”
The encrypted messaging service tested MobileCoin in April 2021 to explore the possibility of private transfers through the app. Over time, however, users and experts have identified multiple issues with the system. Critics also point out that MobileCoin is hard to buy or use in most countries, as it’s not available on many exchanges.
The app currently has around 70 million monthly active users. Analysts believe that if even a small percentage of them started sending bitcoin through the app, Signal could become one of the largest platforms for private peer-to-peer transactions.
