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Zoho has developed Arattai, a free messaging platform with internet calling, as an Indian alternative to WhatsApp. Designed for accessibility, the app works well on low-end devices and slower networks.
Key features include document and image sharing, voice and text messaging, audio and video calls, group chats with up to 1,000 participants, and dedicated channels. Positioned as a homegrown alternative to global messaging apps, Arattai aims to offer a secure and comprehensive communication experience.
The Tamil word “Arattai” translates to “casual conversation” or “chat,” reflecting the app’s purpose. Zoho emphasises ease of communication while prioritising privacy and security, assuring users that their information will not be shared with third parties.
How to Install Arattai on Android and iPhone
On Android:
Visit Google Play, search for Arattai Messenger (Zoho Corporation), and install the app. You can also access the download via the official Arattai website. Avoid third-party APK downloads to ensure safety.
On iPhone:
Search for Arattai Messenger in the App Store, verify that Zoho is the developer, and tap Get. The app is also accessible via its official website.
Setup:
Once installed, open the app, select your country, and enter your phone number. Verify it with a one-time password (OTP), then grant permissions for contacts, microphone, camera, and notifications. Set up a profile name and photo so contacts can recognise you.
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Five Features That Make Arattai Stand Out
1) Meetings
Arattai’s Meetings feature offers video calls comparable to Zoom and Google Meet, surpassing WhatsApp’s video calling. Accessed from the bottom dock, Meetings lets you start instant calls, join existing meetings, or schedule future ones. You can also view all scheduled and past meetings.
2) Pocket
The Pocket feature allows users to save notes, images, videos, and reminders in a private space, separate from chats. Similar to WhatsApp’s “Chat with Yourself,” Pocket provides a secure way to organise personal content with end-to-end encryption.
3) No AI Integration
Unlike Meta, which has added AI features across WhatsApp and other platforms, Arattai currently has no AI tools. This keeps the app simple, without forcing automated suggestions or AI-driven interactions on users.
4) No Advertisements
Arattai does not display ads and assures users that their data will not be used for commercial purposes. All user data is stored in Indian data centres. While voice and video calls are end-to-end encrypted, plain text messages are not fully secure, unlike WhatsApp’s full end-to-end encryption.
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5) Mentions
Arattai includes a Mentions feature, similar to Slack, which collects all messages that reference a user. This makes it easier to track notifications and conversations without losing context, a challenge some users face on WhatsApp.
© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd
