Zoho's Sridhar Vembu says Arattai is finally catching up with WhatsApp with this key security feature

Zoho co-founder Sridhar Vembu has confirmed that Arattai will soon be getting the end-to-end encryption feature for chat messages. Unlike WhatsApp, Arattai currently offers end-to-end encryption for calls but not for text messages.

​In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Vembu wrote, “End-to-end encryption keeps that data on the device only (no cloud storage, unless a backup is specified). So it is actually easier on our servers and lowers our cost to serve users. In case of a back up, the encrypted device data is backed up but no server-level features are provided (unlike Zoho Cliq, see below).”

​“Zoho Cliq, from which Arattai started, keeps data in cloud storage because business users and admins need search, filtering, archiving, integration and other functions,” he added.

​“We are actually turning off that cloud storage in Arattai to offer end-to-end encrypted chat. That is in testing right now. We were going to roll it out in November and we have accelerated the schedule now,” Vembu further noted.

What is Arattai? How is it different from WhatsApp?

Arattai is the homegrown app from the Zoho group which has been positioned in the Indian market as the WhatsApp killer. Zoho, which already operates a number of other apps has a background in giving competition to the global tech giants like Microsoft, Salesforce and Google with products like Zoho Workspace, Zoho Mail and Zoho CRM.

While Arattai has lacked in end-to-end encryption support, the new messaging app also comes with a number of innovative features which its well-funded rival doesn't some of which are listed below.

Pocket: This personal cloud storage feature allows users to save messages, media, and notes for future reference, accessible across multiple devices. Unlike WhatsApp, which often requires users to create a personal group to store important messages, Pocket simplifies the process and keeps content organised.

No Forced AI: While WhatsApp recently integrated Meta AI, many users found it distracting and intrusive. Arattai keeps the experience clean by not imposing any AI functionality on its users.

Meetings: Arattai allows users to create, join, or schedule meetings directly within the app, removing the need for additional platforms such as Zoom or Google Meet. The Meetings option is conveniently located on the bottom dock, making it easily accessible.