It’s unusual for any tech business to get into pure-play non-tech business and vice-versa. However, such maverick moves can be expected by Yoga guru turned entrepreneur Baba Ramdev. Within a week of launching so-called ‘swadeshi SIM’ with state-owned cellular network BSNL, baba has launched shudh desi instant messaging app ‘Kimbho’.
The app seems to have garnered interest from Patanjali aftermath data security concerns prevailed with foreign entities including WhatsApp. At present, it claims to cover every feature being offered by instant messaging apps such as WhatsApp, WeChat, and Hike.
अब भारत बोलेगा.!
सिम कार्ड के बाद बाबा रामदेव ने लॉन्च किया मैसेजिंग ऐप KIMBHO, व्हाट्सऐप को मिलेगी टक्कर..
अपना #स्वदेशी मैसेजिंग प्लेटफार्म। गूगल प्ले स्टोर से सीधे डाउनलोड करें।@yogrishiramdev@Ach_Balkrishna@bst_official @ANI@ani_digital@PTI_Newshttps://t.co/IxTGyLhMbq— Tijarawala SK (@tijarawala) May 30, 2018
Entrackr has made multiple attempts to register an account with Kimbho. However, the verification process didn’t get through as the app failed to recognize one-time password (OTP) sought for signing up repeatedly. It appears like Patanjali has underestimated the fundamental tech glitches and launched the app in hurry.
Interestingly, the entry of Patanjali in instant messaging app space comes at a time when the Facebook-owned company is about to launch its payment play in India. According to media reports, WhatsApp UPI is slated for public launch next week.
With punchline ‘Ab Bharat Bolega’, Kimbho claims to ensure an end to end encryption that supports features including ghost chatting and auto delete options.
Meanwhile, Patanjali also had launched vishudh (pure) SIM card with BSNL. Sadly, the cellular identity is only limited to company’s office bearers and employees. Media reports hint that later it would dish out discount of 10 per cent on Patanjali products to SIM holders.
While the Patanjali’s debut into tech-oriented business is surprising, the back to back moves nothing than a attention seeking exercise. Nevertheless, the ambitions of Patanjali and baba are really lofty. To challenge, WhatsApp sheer dominance in the space Paytm also had launched ‘Inbox’. But the Alibaba-backed company seems to have been struggling to find takers.
The development was first reported by Financial Express.
