Synopsis: Zoho’s homegrown messaging app Arattai is suddenly witnessing a surge in sign-ups amid India’s push for local digital platforms. But can this privacy-first app truly replace WhatsApp, which dominates with 500 million users in the country?
A Rising Star in India’s Messaging Space
India’s search for a made-in-India alternative to WhatsApp has given new life to Arattai, the messaging app built by tech giant Zoho. While launched in 2021, the app remained in the shadows until recently. Now, daily sign-ups are soaring as the government champions indigenous apps and services.
Zoho pitches Arattai as a privacy-first, spyware-free platform, setting it apart from global rivals that rely heavily on monetising user data.
Features of Arattai
The word Arattai means casual chat in Tamil. The app includes all the essential features of modern messengers such as:
- One-to-one and group chats
- Voice notes, images, and video sharing
- Broadcast channels and Stories
- A focus on data privacy and zero user-data monetisation
However, it currently lacks end-to-end encryption, a feature that WhatsApp has long marketed as its core strength.
Why the Sudden Popularity?
Several factors have contributed to Arattai’s meteoric rise:
- Government push for local apps amid trade tensions with the US
- Promotion by union ministers on social media
- Buzz created by Zoho’s co-founder Sridhar Vembu celebrating its growth
The surge in new users has even led to temporary technical glitches, which Zoho says it is working to resolve.
Can Arattai Replace WhatsApp?
Despite the excitement, replacing WhatsApp will not be easy. With over 500 million users in India, WhatsApp is deeply entrenched in both personal and professional communication. Arattai will need to:
- Add end-to-end encryption
- Expand infrastructure to handle mass adoption
- Introduce advanced features to attract professionals and businesses
Until then, Arattai may serve as a promising alternative, but not yet a replacement.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not endorse or promote any particular app. Users are advised to review app features and security policies before adoption.
