Messaging an calling app, Arattai, developed by Zoho Corporation, —being touted as an indigenous rival to WhatsApp as it allows users to send messages, media, and documents, make audio and video calls, share stories, and create channels, among others—seems to have found a solid fanbase as several users have taken to social media to praise the app.
Arattai, meaning "casual talk" or "chit-chat" in Tamil, received a solid endorsement when IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan urged people to check out the platform.
I appeal to everyone to switch to India-made apps for staying connected with friends and family, Pradhan had said in a tweet.
Several people, who tried the app, gave their feedback on X, with some calling it "India’s WhatsApp killer."
" Already matches WhatsApp in look, feel, and usability.
@svembu says it’s still alpha and improving fast. Can’t wait for a spyware-free product!," wrote author and entrepreneur Vivek Wadhwa.
"...it's super user-friendly, sleek, plus they're proudly Made in India! 🇮🇳 Perfect for personal work. Everyone should give these amazing apps a try!,: wrote a user.
Another user claimed that it is not just a replacement for WhatsApp, it is "Whatsapp + Google meet + Zoom."
It was pointed out that "Bharat's own Arattai Messenger is currently the 18th most downloaded app in Indian App Store."
"Finally many are moving to
@Zoho apps. Hopefully many start using @Arattai
and it replaces WhatsApp," wrote another.