Signal is the number-one downloaded app in the Netherlands. But why?

SMS were expensive so everyone looked for messaging alternatives that only use data. WhatsApp became the favoritr, but concerns about US companies (especially in the last months) have led many to migrate to Signal, the second most popular option. The Netherlands, with its relatively small population and relatively high population density, experiences stronger network effects than other countries.

> concerns about US companies (especially in the last months) have led many to migrate to Signal

And then, footer at the bottom of signal.org says “Signal, a 501c3 nonprofit” which is clearly an American thing. Am I missing something here? Both look American from here.

They are not big-tech American, and as a non-profit, they aren't beholden to advertiser or investor interests.

A lot of MDMA goes through the Netherlands

Imported via Rotterdam port?

^ Dutch native.

The reason is quite simple.

Almost everybody here, no matter their political ideology, despises the 2025 Trump administration.

Mark Zuckerberg decided to put his full support behind Trump. This is the result.