Features and Security Focus
The name Arattai, meaning “casual chat” in Tamil, underscores the app’s commitment to simple and everyday communication. Users can send messages, media, and documents, make voice and video calls, create stories, channels, and leverage business content-sharing features.
Privacy remains a central focus. Arattai provides end-to-end encrypted calls and messages, ensuring secure communication. The app is positioned as part of Zoho’s broader mission to provide reliable, secure Indian alternatives to global tech products. For more on India’s tech initiatives, visit PIB.
Zoho’s Growth and Global Presence
Launched in January 2021 after WhatsApp updated its privacy policy, Arattai was developed to provide users with a secure, India-based messaging platform. Zoho, founded in 1996 by Sridhar Vembu and Tony Thomas and headquartered in Chennai, offers over 55 business applications including email, accounting, HR, project management, and CRM.
Zoho currently serves more than 130 million users across 150 countries, including major global companies such as Amazon, Netflix, Deloitte, Puma, Toyota, Sony, and L’Oréal. The company operates under the motto: “Made in India. Made for the world.”
Can Arattai Challenge WhatsApp?
Despite previous attempts by other apps, WhatsApp remains the dominant messaging platform in India. Analysts note that while Arattai has gained significant attention, its ability to sustain growth and challenge WhatsApp’s stronghold will depend on continuous innovation, user experience, and scaling infrastructure.
With its rapid adoption, privacy-centric design, and business-friendly features, Arattai is positioning itself as a credible alternative in India’s messaging ecosystem. As digital literacy and Swadeshi initiatives gain traction, the app could witness sustained growth, especially among users seeking an Indian-made solution.
