# Privacy messaging app anonymity feature developments > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/privacy-messaging-app-anonymity-feature-developments > Updated: 2026-09-21T07:30:08.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. Privacy-focused messaging applications are implementing new features to enhance user anonymity. Signal is developing a registration method called ‘Signal Login’ that allows users to create accounts without an active phone number. To mitigate spam and mass account creation, this optional feature requires a one-time fee of approximately $2.99 or €3.49, processed via zero-knowledge methods to maintain privacy. Under this new system, accounts are identified by a 32-character Account ID and a 64-character Recovery Key rather than a mobile number. Users are cautioned to store these keys securely, as Signal cannot recover accounts if they are lost. The feature is currently in beta for Android and requires Google Play Services for payments, with an iOS version expected in the future. Separately, the Swiss-based Session Foundation continues to offer privacy through metadata protection and a decentralized server network that does not require phone numbers or email addresses. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-21: Signal tests registration without phone numbers Signal is testing ‘Signal Login,’ an optional feature allowing users to register without a phone number for a one-time fee, using cryptographic keys for account identity. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/signal-introduces-phone-number-free-registration-for-android ### 2026-09-18: Privacy messaging apps Signal and Session introduce new anonymity features Encrypted messaging apps Signal and Session are enhancing privacy; Signal will soon allow account creation without a phone number for a small fee to deter spammers. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/privacy-messaging-apps-signal-and-session-introduce-new-anonymity-features --- Cite as: Privacy messaging app anonymity feature developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/privacy-messaging-app-anonymity-feature-developments