Zoho’s Arattai app hits No.1, here are 5 unique features setting it apart from WhatsApp

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Indian tech company Zoho's new messaging and calling app 'Arattai' has created a stir in the Indian digital market as soon as it was launched. This app, seen as a local alternative to WhatsApp has reached number one in the social networking category on the Apple App Store. Its popularity has seen a huge surge after receiving support from government departments. Arattai is not limited to just chatting and calling, but it also has many advanced features like online meetings, channels and Android TV support.

Here are its 5 key features that make it different from WhatsApp and in some cases, better:

1. Online Meeting Feature

While WhatsApp primarily focuses on individual calls and group chats, Arattai allows its users to schedule online meetings. There's also the option to add co-hosts and set different timezones. This feature elevates Arattai beyond just a messaging app and into a productivity tool that can prove to be quite useful for professionals.

2. Works on larger screens too, with Android TV support.

Another unique feature of Arattai is its Android TV support. This means users can use the app on their TV's larger screen. This feature isn't officially available on WhatsApp. The large-screen messaging and video call experience puts Arattai at a premium.

3. Strong performance even on slow networks and low-cost phones.

Zoho claims that the Arattai app has been specifically designed for Indian conditions. It works smoothly without lags or lags even on weak networks and smartphones with modest specifications. This feature makes it a highly attractive option for users in smaller towns and rural areas of the country, where network problems are common.

4. A Combination of Channels and Stories

While WhatsApp only offers status updates, Arattai offers a combination of both channels and stories. This allows users to share not only their personal updates but also reach a larger group through channels making them a great medium for broadcasting.

5. Easy access across all major platforms.

Arattai supports all major computer operating systems including Windows, macOS and Linux. Syncing across devices is also quite simple. WhatsApp, on the other hand doesn't yet officially support Linux. This feature makes Arattai a more flexible and convenient option for professionals and tech-savvy users.

An important security point:

While Arattai appears to be ahead in many areas, there's one important thing to know about security. While voice and video calls on Arattai are end-to-end encrypted, this feature isn't yet available for text messages (chats). The company says that end-to-end encryption for chats is under development and will be released soon. WhatsApp, on the other hand offers this security for all its messages and calls.