India-based messaging platform Arattai has kicked off the New Year 2026 with a set of feature updates positioned as a direct response to recent additions rolled out by WhatsApp. The company has introduced polls for group conversations and a new “Clear the clutter” option, expanding user controls around chats and messages.
The updates come at a time when messaging platforms are competing on usability and privacy-focused tools, especially in large group conversations that tend to accumulate messages quickly.
Polls arrive for group chats
Arattai has rolled out polls across group chats, allowing users to create quick questionnaires within ongoing conversations. The feature lets participants vote directly inside the chat, removing the need for separate messages or external tools to gather opinions.
Polls are aimed at simplifying everyday coordination such as deciding meeting times, travel plans, or group activities. Once created, poll results update in real time as members cast their votes, keeping discussions organised and reducing message clutter.
‘Clear the clutter’ and message cleanup
Alongside polls, Arattai has introduced a new cleanup-focused feature described as “Clear the clutter.” This tool allows users to remove unwanted messages locally, without affecting the chat history for others in the conversation.
The feature is targeted at users who want to tidy up their inboxes without deleting entire chats. It is particularly useful in active groups where media files, forwarded messages, and announcements can quickly overwhelm storage and visibility.
Arattai says the option gives users more control over how their chat history appears on their own devices, while preserving conversation continuity for other participants.
For those unaware, WhatsApp has also been expanding its feature set with tools such as polls, message deletion options, and chat organisation features. Arattai’s latest rollout mirrors some of these capabilities while positioning them as part of a broader focus on user control and simplicity.
The company has consistently highlighted end-to-end encrypted messaging and device-level privacy as core pillars, and the new features build on that foundation by improving everyday chat management.
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