Editing Arattai

'''Arattai Messenger''' (or simply '''Arattai''') is an instant messaging and calling application developed by '''[[Zoho Corporation]]'''. It is positioned as a '''privacy-focused, Indian-made alternative''' to global messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. The name "Arattai" is a Tamil word meaning '''"chat"''' or '''"casual conversation."'''

== Core Philosophy and Security ==

Arattai's development aligns with Zoho's overall commitment to user privacy, emphasizing that the application does not rely on advertising or commercial exploitation of user data.

* '''Data Localisation:''' All user data is stored within '''Indian data centers''', appealing to the national call for data sovereignty.
* '''Ad-Free Experience:''' The app maintains an '''ad-free interface''', assuring users that their conversations are private and not mined for commercial purposes.
* '''Encryption:''' All '''voice and video calls''' on Arattai are '''end-to-end encrypted''' by default.
* '''Text Message Encryption:''' While initially lacking end-to-end encryption for text messages, Zoho has recently confirmed the feature is being rolled out to personal chats, with group chat encryption planned for a later stage.

== Key Features and Productivity Tools ==

Arattai integrates several features designed to enhance communication and productivity, often drawing comparisons to both consumer and workplace chat applications.

* '''Meetings Feature:''' Users can '''create, join, or schedule video meetings''' directly within the app, removing the need for separate conferencing software.
* '''Pocket:''' A unique '''personal cloud storage''' feature that allows users to save messages, media, notes, and reminders in a secure, private space for easy, cross-device access.
* '''Mentions Tab:''' Similar to workplace communication tools, it provides a dedicated tab that aggregates all messages where the user was explicitly '''@mentioned''' in group chats, ensuring important notifications are not missed.
* '''No Forced AI:''' In a conscious design choice, Arattai maintains a clean user experience by '''not integrating intrusive AI features''' into the main chat interface.
* '''Cross-Platform Availability:''' Arattai is available across major operating systems, including '''Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux''', with seamless synchronization of messages and contacts.
* '''Group and Channel Support:''' The app supports large '''group chats''' (up to 1,000 participants) and '''channels''' for broader communication and broadcasting.

== History and Market Positioning ==

Arattai was soft-launched in January 2021, coinciding with heightened user concerns and a public exodus from a competing platform over its privacy policy changes.

* '''Target Audience:''' It aims to serve both individual users, families, and '''Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs)''' seeking a secure communication tool.
* '''Surge in Popularity:''' The app saw a significant surge in downloads in late 2025, temporarily topping the charts in India, driven by renewed interest in supporting homegrown technology.
* '''WhatsApp Chat Import:''' The app allows users to '''export chat history from WhatsApp''' and import it into Arattai on an individual chat basis, facilitating an easier transition for users considering a switch.