In an era dominated by global tech giants, India is witnessing a remarkable shift towards homegrown digital solutions. Arattai, a messaging app created by Zoho, one of India’s most respected tech companies known for enterprise software solutions, is emerging as a formidable alternative to WhatsApp. The app has experienced a 100x increase in traffic within just 3 days, signaling a massive wave of user adoption across the country.
What is Arattai?
Arattai, launched in January 2021 by Zoho Corporation, is a Made-in-India messaging and VoIP app named after the Tamil word for “casual chat”. Designed with India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative in mind, it prioritizes accessibility, regional relevance, and digital sovereignty.
Initially launched as a beta “friends-and-family trial” in January 2021, the app is now available on Android, iOS, and web platforms. Backed by endorsements from Indian leaders like Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Arattai represents India’s push towards digital self-reliance.
Why Are People Ditching WhatsApp for Arattai?
1. Privacy and Data Security
Unlike many messaging apps, Arattai emphasizes privacy, security, and a clutter-free experience. The app stores user data on India-based servers, aligning with the country’s digital sovereignty goals. Zoho’s no-data-monetization policy ensures user data isn’t used for ads.
2. Made in India
In the wake of growing concerns about data privacy and foreign apps, Indians are increasingly choosing homegrown alternatives. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan promoted Arattai as a WhatsApp substitute that is built in India, highlighting its domestic origins by describing it as “free, easy-to-use”.
3. Optimized for Indian Networks
Arattai is tailored for users on low-end devices and slower networks, with a focus on local languages and India-based data storage. This makes it perfect for India’s diverse connectivity landscape.
4. Government Support
With backing from key government ministers and alignment with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, Arattai has received significant governmental endorsement, encouraging citizens to adopt indigenous technology.
Key Features of Arattai
Messaging Capabilities
– Text and Voice Messaging: Send messages and voice notes seamlessly
– Regional Language Support: Strong support for Indian languages including Tamil, Telugu, and more
– Lightweight Design: Minimal storage and data requirements for smooth performance on low-end smartphones
Calling Features
– HD Voice and Video Calls: High-quality calls optimized for low-bandwidth networks
– Conference Calling: Group interaction support
– End-to-End Encryption for Calls: Secure voice and video communication
Group Features
– Group chats support up to 1,000 members
– Broadcast channels for one-way communication
– Perfect for community engagement
File Sharing
– File sharing up to 1 GB, including photos, videos, and documents
– Stories feature for temporary updates
– Media sharing optimized for slower networks
Unique Productivity Tools
Arattai’s “Pocket” feature is a standout productivity tool, offering a dedicated self-chat space where users can store photos, videos, notes, reminders, and other files. This provides convenient organization without cluttering other chats.
Business Tools
– Dedicated section for meetings where you can schedule meetings and invite colleagues similar to Microsoft Teams
– Channels for content-sharing
– Suitable for small-scale engagement and local creators
Ad-Free Experience
Arattai is completely ad-free, aligning with Zoho’s user-first philosophy and offering a clean, distraction-free experience.
Arattai vs WhatsApp: A Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Arattai | WhatsApp |
|———|———|———-|
| Developer | Zoho Corporation (India) | Meta (USA) |
| Launch Year | 2021 | 2009 |
| Data Storage | India-based servers | Global servers |
| Encryption | Calls only | All communications |
| Group Size | Up to 1,000 members | Up to 1,024 members |
| File Size Limit | 1 GB | 2 GB |
| Ads | Completely ad-free | Potentially integrated with Meta ads |
| Language Support | Strong Indian language focus | Global languages |
| Meeting Scheduling | Yes (built-in) | No |
| Device Optimization | Low-end devices & slow networks | Modern devices preferred |
| Business Features | Basic channels & meetings | Robust Business platform |
How to Download and Use Arattai
Step 1: Download the App
– Android: Visit Google Play Store and search for “Arattai”
– iOS: Visit Apple App Store and search for “Arattai”
– Desktop: Visit Arattai’s official website
Step 2: Sign Up
– Enter your mobile number
– Verify with OTP
– Set up your profile
Step 3: Start Chatting
– Invite contacts to join Arattai
– Start sending messages, making calls, and sharing files
– Explore features like Pocket and meeting scheduling
The Surge in Popularity
Arattai has recently gained incredible popularity with a 100x increase in new sign-ups within just three days. This unprecedented growth reflects growing Indian consciousness about data privacy, digital sovereignty, and support for homegrown technology.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Challenges:
– Competing against WhatsApp’s massive 500 million+ user base in India
– Convincing users to switch platforms
– Scaling infrastructure to meet exploding demand
Opportunities:
– Growing privacy concerns among Indian users
– Strong government support for indigenous apps
– Potential partnerships with Indian enterprises and educational institutions
– Rising nationalism and preference for “Swadeshi” products
Arattai represents more than just a messaging app—it’s a symbol of India’s technological self-reliance and digital sovereignty. While WhatsApp continues to dominate with its global presence and feature-rich platform, Arattai offers a compelling alternative for privacy-conscious Indians who prefer supporting homegrown technology.
With a strong emphasis on privacy, seamless user experience, and Zoho’s trusted brand backing it, the app has potential. Whether you’re looking for a WhatsApp alternative or simply want to support Indian innovation, Arattai is worth exploring.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is Arattai app?
Arattai is a Made-in-India messaging and calling app developed by Zoho Corporation. It offers text messaging, voice and video calls, file sharing, and various productivity features designed specifically for Indian users.
2. Is Arattai free to use?
Yes, Arattai is completely free to download and use. There are no subscription fees or hidden charges.
3. Is Arattai safe and secure?
Yes, Arattai provides end-to-end encryption for voice and video calls. User data is stored on India-based servers, and Zoho has a strict no-data-monetization policy, meaning your data is never used for advertising.
4. Does Arattai work on both Android and iOS?
Yes, Arattai is available on Android, iOS, web browsers, and even desktop platforms, allowing seamless synchronization across devices.
5. How is Arattai different from WhatsApp?
Arattai is Made-in-India with data stored on Indian servers, optimized for low-end devices and slow networks, completely ad-free, and includes unique features like built-in meeting scheduling. WhatsApp offers broader encryption and larger file sharing but is owned by Meta.
6. Can I use Arattai on slow internet connections?
Yes! Arattai is specifically optimized to work efficiently on 2G/3G networks and low-bandwidth connections, making it ideal for rural areas and regions with poor connectivity.
7. What languages does Arattai support?
Arattai has strong support for Indian regional languages including Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and many others, in addition to English.
8. How many people can join an Arattai group?
Arattai group chats can accommodate up to 1,000 members.
9. What is the file size limit on Arattai?
You can share files up to 1 GB in size on Arattai, including photos, videos, and documents.
10. Does Arattai have business features?
Yes, Arattai includes business-friendly features like broadcast channels, content sharing, and a dedicated meeting scheduling section similar to Microsoft Teams.
11. What is the Pocket feature in Arattai?
Pocket is Arattai’s unique self-chat feature that allows you to store photos, videos, notes, reminders, and files in a dedicated personal space for easy organization.
12. Is Arattai endorsed by the Indian government?
Yes, Arattai has received endorsements from Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw as part of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
13. Can I make video calls on Arattai?
Yes, Arattai supports high-quality voice and video calls, including conference calls, all optimized for Indian network conditions.
14. Does Arattai show ads?
No, Arattai is completely ad-free, providing a clean and distraction-free user experience.
15. How do I invite my contacts to Arattai?
You can invite contacts directly through the app by sharing an invitation link via SMS, email, or other messaging platforms.