Messaging apps are central to modern communication, and two contenders stand out in India’s digital sphere—WhatsApp, the global titan, and Arattai, the “Made in India” alternative surging in popularity. Choosing the right app depends on your priorities: privacy, features, accessibility, and social circle.
Key Differences at a Glance
Feature | Arattai | |
|---|---|---|
Global Reach | Over 3 billion users worldwide | Most popular in India, #1 India App Store |
End-to-End Encryption | Chats, calls, media fully encrypted | Calls encrypted, messages not (as of Oct 2025) |
Unique Features | Status, Channels, rich formatting, AI tools | “Pocket” self-storage, Meetings tab, location-sharing |
Regional Language Support | Major global languages | Strong Indian regional language focus |
Device Compatibility | Optimized for new devices, stable net | Runs smoothly on low-end devices, supports Android TV |
Data Storage | Meta servers (global) | Indian servers, no third-party sharing |
Government Endorsement | None | Supported by Indian ministers |
Group Calls | Up to 8 people | Up to 50 participants |
App Size & Bandwidth | Heavier, needs stable internet | Lightweight, works with 2G connections |
WhatsApp: The Universal Choice
WhatsApp remains the go-to app for billions, offering:
Global connectivity: Friends, family, and business contacts worldwide use WhatsApp, making it tough to replace for social and professional messaging.
Security: End-to-end encryption covers all chats, calls, and media, ensuring conversations remain private.
Feature-rich experience: File sharing, document scanning, status updates, custom stickers, passkey login, and even AI-powered tools for chat themes or image generation.
Professional use: Business accounts, broadcast channels, and smooth sync between devices make WhatsApp ideal for work.
Who Should Choose WhatsApp?
Those who need international reach.
Users prioritizing maximum security.
Anyone whose work, family, or community rely on WhatsApp.
Arattai: The Proud Indian Alternative
Arattai, developed by Zoho Corporation, aims squarely at Indian users with:
India-first design: Local data storage, regional language support, and government endorsements underscore its commitment to privacy and sovereignty.
Optimized for all: Lightweight app works on low-end smartphones and slow (2G/3G) networks, plus Android TV access for broader device support.
Unique features: “Pocket” (personal storage), meeting scheduling, up to 50-person group calls, location sharing that ends when reaching your destination.
Ad-free experience: No third-party data sharing, giving users greater control.
Safety focus: Fewer risks of spyware and cybercrime, transparent policies.
Who Should Choose Arattai?
Users wanting India-centric features and regional language support.
Those with budget devices or in areas with poor connectivity.
Privacy advocates preferring local data storage.
Fans of group chats, meetings, and large communities.
“Arattai is proudly built in India, hosted in India, and runs on our own infra.” — Zoho Corporation
Security & Privacy
WhatsApp: Full end-to-end encryption for all chats, calls, and media. Data is stored globally on Meta’s servers—some users raise concerns about third-party data sharing.
Arattai: Calls are encrypted; chats aren’t (as of October 2025), though encryption is planned. All data is stored on Indian servers. The app has government ministers’ backing and no ads, increasing trust for local users.
Social & Official Acceptance
WhatsApp still dominates formal and social communications in India, with most businesses and groups relying on its network.
Arattai leads in India’s App Store rankings and is popular for community chats and regional groups.
Verdict: Which One Should You Pick?
Choose WhatsApp if you value global connectivity, advanced features, and full encryption.
Pick Arattai if you want India-first innovation, greater privacy, large group calls, strong local language support, or you’re keen to support a homegrown tech movement.
Many Indians use both apps: WhatsApp for broad reach, Arattai for local networks, family, and fun — allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arattai safer than WhatsApp?
Arattai has fewer risks of spyware and stores all data in India, but WhatsApp currently has stronger encryption for messages.
Are all my friends on Arattai?
WhatsApp’s user base is far larger, so most contacts will still use WhatsApp; Arattai shines for regional and group chats.
Can I use both apps?
Yes! Many people keep both for different groups, work, and family needs.
Final Thought: In 2025, picking between WhatsApp and Arattai comes down to your needs—security, reach, and features versus Indian innovation and privacy. For many, using both makes the most sense.
