Arattai vs WhatsApp: Which Messaging App Should You Trust in 2026?
Written By: Puja Bhardwaj
In the present digital era, two messaging apps, Arattai and WhatsApp, are at the leading edge. Arattai is an India-based application developed by Zoho Corporation, while WhatsApp is a global giant brand owned by Meta. These days, Arattai stands on top in India’s App Store, and WhatsApp stands as the industry leader in connecting more than 3 billion users across the world.
Arattai was launched in January 2021 by Zoho Corporation. It is a Made-in-India messaging and VoIP app. Crafted with India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative’, the application focuses on accessibility, regional relevance and digital sovereignty. It is tailored for users on low-end devices and slower networks, focusing on local languages and country-based data storage.
Acquired by Meta in 2014, WhatsApp is a worldwide leader in instant messaging and stands out for its reliability, encryption and vast features. In this article, we will present a quick overview of Arattai vs WhatsApp and compare their features, performance and privacy and security.
Arattai vs WhatsApp: Key Differences
Both Arattai and WhatsApp incorporate several standard features like messaging, sharing media files, sending voice notes, and facilitating voice and video calls. There are some major differences, particularly in feature sets and privacy offerings. Here is a quick overview of both apps and what they offer.
Key Features and User Experience
Arattai offers across varied devices, including Android TVs, and users can even use their Arattai account across five devices at the same time. But WhatsApp does not support all devices.
Arattai is lightweight and can work smoothly on low-memory devices and older networks. It makes it accessible for people in rural areas and on low-budget devices. In comparison, WhatsApp consumes more data and requires a high-speed network to function.
Voice and Video Calling
Arattai is known for its high-definition voice and video calls. Additionally, its conference call features support group communication and call encryption, giving a security layer. WhatsApp also offers top-notch voice and video calls, with group calls supporting eight people at a time. Its global infrastructure ensures performance for global calls, backed by end-to-end encryption.
Privacy and Security
Privacy is a major consideration for both applications. WhatsApp is known for its end-to-end encryption for all types of communications like texts, calls and media and makes sure there is no third party, including Meta, that can access users’ data. This makes it a trusted choice for security-conscious users, but its Meta ownership raises concerns about data sharing within the ad-driven ecosystem.
Arattai, on the other hand, offers end-to-end encryption for both voice and video calls. But it does not happen with the text messages; it may create a major concern for privacy-focused users. However, Arattai’s India-based servers align with digital sovereignty goals. Zoho’s no-data monetisation policy ensures user data is not used for ads.
Bottom Line
In the Arattai vs WhatsApp, each application brings unique strengths to the messaging landscape. WhatsApp is leading with its complete encryption, enhanced features, and worldwide dominance. Arattai is a lightweight, ad-free and India-focused app, suitable for individuals focusing on accessibility and regional languages, as well as digital sovereignty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arattai better than WhatsApp?
It is tough to say which is better; the choice depends on personal preference and priorities. Arattai is a local alternative for specific features, while WhatsApp has broader features and a larger user base. Arattai is a good option if you want a regional language and built-in video meeting, while WhatsApp is better for broad communication with end-to-end encryption.
Is there any Indian app like WhatsApp?
Yes, Arattai is like WhatsApp with almost the same features, and it serves as a domestic alternative to WhatsApp with features like messaging, voice, video calls and story sharing. Arattai is a free, secure and user-friendly application developed by Zoho.
Can Arattai replace WhatsApp?
Many believe that the India-based messaging app Arattai will replace WhatsApp, but that is not true. WhatsApp has a huge user base with robust security features, mainly end-to-end encryption for all messages.
