Zoho: Zoho is becoming a reliable alternative to giants like Google and Microsoft, here's how..

Indian technology company Zoho is among the few brands globally that provide fully cloud-based business solutions. The company has developed a comprehensive software suite for businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises. Zoho has over 55 integrated applications covering a wide range of business functions, including sales, marketing, finance, HR, and IT management. This platform allows companies to digitally manage their entire workflow without complicated setup or significant overhead. With its affordable pricing and all-in-one platform, Zoho is considered a reliable alternative to giants like Microsoft and Google. Today, we'll learn about some such apps that may prove beneficial to you...
What is the 'Arattai' app and its features?
The Arattai messaging app, developed by Chennai-based IT company Zoho, is positioning itself as a "made-in-India" alternative to global chatting giants. The name "Arattai" is derived from the Tamil language, meaning "normal conversation," and is designed to meet everyday needs. The app is equipped with all modern features, including text messaging, voice and video calls, and media sharing, as well as "stories" and "channels." It's worth noting that end-to-end encryption is already built in for voice and video calls, although this feature is still being developed for chat messaging.
Government Support Boosts Popularity
Arattai recently gained significant recognition when Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan appealed to citizens to adopt it as a secure, indigenous alternative. This government support boosted its credibility and sparked a surge in searches for the app in India. Due to its growing popularity, the app is trending among the top 10 apps in the communication app section of the Google Play Store.
What's special?
Arattai's biggest strength is its privacy policy. While global chat apps are often accused of misusing user data, Zoho claims that Arattai will not use user data for any kind of monetization. This app not only allows for chatting but also functions as a mini social network. It includes content sharing through stories and channels, multi-device support, and usability on Android TV.
What is Vani?
Vani is a smart visual collaboration platform designed specifically for teams. It allows team members to showcase their ideas in a single digital space, as well as plan and implement them together. Zoho launched it as a new brand and aims to simplify and improve teamwork. It's being seen as an alternative to productivity tools like Google Workspace. It's different from simple chat or document sharing apps because it focuses on visual work. The platform provides teams with a digital canvas where they can brainstorm, design workflows, create mind maps and diagrams, and directly translate their ideas into action plans. Vani is specifically designed for teams working from different locations, allowing them to collaborate visually in real time.
Vani Features
Vani's Infinite Whiteboard feature gives users the freedom to think beyond boundaries and present their ideas visually. Its AI engine can automatically generate flowcharts, diagrams, or mind maps, making brainstorming faster and easier. Teams can work simultaneously (real-time) or at different times (asynchronously). It includes features like video calls, comments, voice notes, and emoji reactions. Through the "Flow" feature, team members can see the entire journey of any discussion and contribute later. Vani's AI tool acts more than just as a tool, but as an assistant. It summarizes meetings, suggests tasks, generates visual diagrams, and automates tasks. This increases team productivity and clarity.
From brainstorming to direct execution
Vani isn't limited to just ideas. Users can set up workflows, create data tables, and track deliverables all within the platform. It can also integrate with other Zoho apps and third-party tools, keeping the entire work process streamlined in one place.
What is Zoho Office Suite and its features?
Zoho Office Suite is a cloud-based productivity platform that offers features ranging from document editing to team collaboration. It is specifically designed for companies and professionals who want digital solutions that are secure, reliable, and compliant with Indian data-privacy standards.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.