Sandes: Key features you should know about swadeshi WhatsApp alternative

While Twitter-alternative Koo seeing a steady surge of users in India, a swadeshi instant messenger app Sandes has made its debut on Apple App Store to take on WhatsApp.

Sandes: Key things you should know about the swadeshi messenger app

--Unlike Koo, which is developed by Bengaluru-based Bombinate Technologies Private Limited, Sandes (meaning message in Hindi) is created by the state-run National Informatics Centre (NIC).

--It supports audio, video calls, and multimedia and file sharing

--It promises end-to-end encryption security on both modes of communication video and audio

--Like other messenger apps, it also offers customisaton such as message styling

--Users can create groups on Sandes

--Users can share contact sharing, message tagging, phone book synchronisation, broadcast messages, and more

--Sandes also support chatbots for instant customer service

--Sandes offers chat history back up and restore option

Sandes app on Apple App Store (screen-grab)

How to download and use Sandes on mobile
For now, it is available only on Apple App Store. It supports iPhone with iOS 11 or later versions only
Step 1: Once installed, subscriber will be asked to register either with phone number or email ID.
Step 2: One Time Password wil be sent to the registered email ID or phone number. Then, you will be asked to mention the gender (optional).
Step 3: Then, you will asked for permission to sync contacts on the phone with Sandes

An Android version of Sandes is available in APK (Android Application Package), which can only be side-loaded to the Phone. However, we advise the readers to wait for the public version, which is expected to be made available on the Google Play store in a few days. APK version is a test app and it will contain bugs and lack a proper security firewall.

Get the latest news on new launches, gadget reviews, apps, cybersecurity, and more on personal technology only on DH Tech.