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Arattai, a messaging app developed by Zoho, has positioned itself as an Indian alternative to WhatsApp.
Learn how Arattai differs from WhatsApp in terms of privacy, multi-device support, and user experience.
Arattai’s growth highlights a shift in Indian users exploring homegrown, secure messaging solutions.
When it comes to instant messaging and personal image sharing, WhatsApp has long held the dominant position. With AI integrations and advanced messaging features, it continues to attract users worldwide, albeit with a few exceptions. However, this unchallenged dominance is now facing competition in India from a homegrown platform, Arattai.
Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to support Made-in-India products, Arattai has gained significant traction, even securing a spot on the Apple App Store. Designed with Indian users in mind, the app emphasizes privacy, local data storage, and a clean, ad-free experience, positioning itself as a strong alternative to WhatsApp.
While WhatsApp is still dominant, Arattai has been making its way into the niche with innovative solutions. If you are unsure whether to switch or not, the following are key differences that one should consider.
Arattai is an instant messaging app developed by Zoho Corporation India. Arattai, however, isn’t a newly launched app. Initially, the app made its global appearance in 2021, but the Zoho application has recently witnessed a surge in popularity following the endorsement by the Indian government.
Zoho has been competing with global brands with its products for a long time. However, the success of Arattai over the last few days has surpassed all expectations. The massive social media wave has led users to term it as ‘WhatsApp Killer.’
Also Read: Ex-WhatsApp Security Head Sues Meta Over Data Access and Cybersecurity Failures
Both messaging apps share a range of similarities that are undeniable for any user. The basic features like instant messaging, voice notes, calling, etc., are similar. However, the Zoho-made app distinguishes itself from the competitor in multiple aspects to create a separate appeal to Indian users.
Below are the features that make Arattai exciting for Indian users:
WhatsApp users are well aware that the Meta platform generates revenue through ads and data-driven services. Recently, it has started showing ads in the Updates tab.
This is one of the primary aspects where the Zoho-made application differs from the Meta platform. Arattai offers a completely ad-free experience. Users can communicate without any interruptions or distractions.
The new feature that Arattai has brought is the Pocket feature. This exclusive feature allows users to store messages, links, and media in a private cloud space. One can easily store videos, notes, and photos in the cloud along with reminders. It eliminates the requirement to send messages to oneself, which WhatsApp users often do.
Multi-device support is another standout feature. The Zoho-made messaging app features seamless access across Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux. For WhatsApp, multi-device compatibility eventually arrived, but Arattai ensured cross-platform compatibility from the beginning.
On the Zoho platform, data storage is restricted to servers located within India. This approach ensures that app data is protected under Indian regulations. Therefore, it alleviates privacy concerns and provides users with more control over their personal information.
For professionals, Arattai brings an interesting feature to the app. Users can join video conferences directly in the app, which omits the need for a third-party application for meetings.
Also Read: How to Use WhatsApp Web: Easy Tricks
The app has multiple innovative features, but it’s somewhat challenging for Arattai to compete with a messaging app that has more than 2 billion global users. Even in India, the presence of WhatsApp is unavoidable.
The switching process isn’t easy for users. Going to a new platform requires some essential aspects for users. The first hurdle to overcome is familiarity with WhatsApp’s interface.
However, Arattai’s growth is significant. This app has already surpassed 1 million downloads and topped the App Store charts. It further signals an increasing interest in Indian alternatives, especially as government backing plays a key role in authenticating its credibility and data privacy policies.
Arattai’s growth is compelling. Although it’s still too early to say whether the Indian messaging app will outperform WhatsApp, the growth indicates that if it continues, the Zoho messaging app will be a potent rival to the Meta platform, at least in India. The strong privacy policies of Arattai are the primary reasons users switch to Arattai.
The ultimate success of Arattai will depend on continued innovation, the trust of the users, and how fast it pulls a critical mass in India. For now, it stands as a promising alternative, paralleling a broad trend of users seeking localized secure communication platforms.
What makes Arattai different from WhatsApp?
Ans: Arattai provides clean messaging, Pocket storage, multi-machine support, and much better privacy for the Indian population.
Is Arattai safe for user data?
Ans: Yes, Arattai being a data sovereign, retains user data in India; that is why access from outside is largely precluded.
Can Arattai replace WhatsApp?
Ans: Too premature to say, really. Arattai brings some innovations. Still, practically, no other application can outdo WhatsApp. Meta platform-wise- immense users and global network effects.
Does Arattai support video calling?
Ans: Yeah. This application contains built-in video meeting features without relying on other third-party applications.
Who can use Arattai?
Ans: The Arattai is available for the Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux users with cross-platform synchronicity.
