In a significant development for India's homegrown messaging ecosystem, Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu has confirmed that the company's WhatsApp competitor, Arattai, will soon integrate a payment feature. This announcement comes alongside the app's expansion to the Android TV platform, marking a strategic push to become a multi-platform communication tool.
Payment System Confirmed for Arattai
The revelation about the upcoming payment feature came directly from Sridhar Vembu on the social media platform X. He was responding to a user's suggestion to build a full-fledged payment system integrated seamlessly with the messaging experience. Vembu's concise reply, "Yes working on it," confirms that Zoho is actively developing this functionality.
This move aims to address a gap in the Indian market, as noted by the user who pointed out that no one in India has been able to get this right. Integrating UPI-based or other payment methods directly into a messaging app could significantly enhance Arattai's utility for personal and group transactions.
Arattai Arrives on Android TV for Shared Viewing
In a separate New Year announcement, Vembu revealed that the Arattai app is now available on Android TV. This expansion brings the messaging service into the living room, transforming it into a shared family experience.
The Android TV integration allows users to:
- Access chats, media, and group conversations directly on their television screens.
- View and respond to messages on a larger display.
- Share photos and videos seamlessly during family gatherings or parties.
- Participate in group chats without being tied to a smartphone.
This strategic step reflects Arattai's ambition to bridge personal and family-centric communication, making it a versatile tool for various social contexts.
App Features and Current Challenges
Arattai positions itself as a feature-rich alternative, offering standard messaging tools alongside some unique offerings. Its key features include one-to-one and group chats with support for text, voice notes, and media sharing. The app also provides audio and video calls with end-to-end encryption for privacy, multi-device support covering desktop and now TV, and 'Stories' and 'Channels' for broadcasting updates.
However, the app is not without its growing pains. Some users have reported technical issues, including delays in receiving OTPs, slower contact synchronization, and occasional glitches during calls, often attributed to server overload as the user base expands. Addressing these performance hurdles will be crucial alongside rolling out new features like payments.
The dual announcement of a forthcoming payment system and Android TV availability signals Zoho's committed investment in Arattai. By enhancing its functionality and expanding its platform reach, the company is strengthening its challenge to established messaging giants in the Indian market.
