gurk

gurk [--config path]

gurk is a Signal Messenger client that runs entirely in the terminal. It provides a TUI interface for sending and receiving encrypted messages through the Signal protocol, supporting both individual and group conversations.On first launch, gurk displays a QR code that can be scanned with the Signal mobile app to link the terminal client as a secondary device. Once linked, messages sync between devices and conversations can be managed using keyboard shortcuts.The client stores its data and configuration in a local directory, and supports customizable key bindings through a TOML configuration file.

Requires an existing Signal account on a mobile device for linking. Does not support creating new Signal accounts. Some Signal features like voice/video calls and stories are not available in the terminal client. Message history before linking is not synced.

gurk (gurk-rs) was created by boxdot and is written in Rust. The name is German slang for cucumber. It is the only actively maintained Signal client for the terminal, providing privacy-focused messaging for headless systems and terminal-centric workflows.

iamb(1), weechat(1)