1. Built‑In Video Meetings

Arattai includes a dedicated “Meetings” tab where you can start, join, or schedule video calls — no need for separate apps like Zoom or google Meet.

2. “Pocket” — Your Private Space

This is more than a self‑chat — Pocket is a personal secure space to save notes, reminders, images, videos, and files, all separate from regular chats.

3. Fully Ad‑Free Experience

Unlike WhatsApp’s parent company Meta, Arattai doesn’t show ads or use your data for targeting, promising a cleaner, distraction‑free messaging experience.

4. Multi‑Device Support Including Android TV

You can use Arattai on multiple devices simultaneously — phone, tablet, desktop and even Android TV — something whatsapp still hasn’t broadly supported.

5. Mentions & Better Group Chats

Arattai’s @mentions help you keep track of when someone specifically tags you in larger chats — especially useful in busy groups.

6. Groups & Channels

Create group chats and channels for broadcast‑style messaging with up to ~1,000 members, blending social and communication features.

7. Works on Low‑End Phones and Weak Networks

The app is optimized for low ram and weak network conditions, making it smoother than many competitors in areas with limited connectivity.

8. Privacy‑Centered Data Storage

Zoho stores Arattai user data on indian servers and claims not to share it with advertisers or third parties — a big plus for privacy‑conscious users.

9. No Forced AI or Distracting Features

Arattai keeps the user experience simple and uncluttered by default AI tools, focusing on core communication rather than automated suggestions.

10. Extra Future‑Forward Features in Development

According to Zoho community updates, Arattai is planning:

• Offline messaging & peer‑to‑peer sync (works even without internet via Bluetooth/Wi‑Fi)
• Integrated UPI payments and group bill splitting
• Business features like multi‑channel customer support dashboards
  All of these could challenge whatsapp Business services if fully rolled out.

💡 Bonus Perks

✔ End‑to‑end encryption for calls & secret chats, with expanding support (now optional default for personal chats in updates).
✔ Integrated media, file sharing, voice notes & more — similar to whatsapp basics.
✔ Tight integration with other Zoho productivity tools (beneficial especially for professionals).

Should You Really Switch?

Arattai packs many WhatsApp‑like features — video meetings, secure personal storage, ad‑free design, and indian data storage all stand out. However, ecosystem effects matter: most of your contacts need to be on the platform for messaging apps to replace whatsapp smoothly.

Quick Feature Comparison: Arattai vs WhatsApp

Feature

Arattai

WhatsApp

Video Meetings

✅ Built‑in

❌ via separate links

Personal Storage (“Pocket”)

✅ Yes

❌ Not dedicated

Ads

❌ None

⚠ Ads integrated

Multi‑Device + tv support

✅ Yes

❌ Limited

Mentions

✅ Yes

Limited

Data Stored Locally (India)

✔ Yes

🌍 Global

E2EE by Default

Optional / rolling

❗ Always

Final Verdict

If you want a privacy‑focused, multifunctional messaging app with built‑in meetings, personal cloud storage, ad‑free experience, multi‑device support (including TVs!), and future features like offline chat for rural users, Zoho Arattai is worth serious consideration as a whatsapp alternative — especially for users who value data sovereignty and a clean, integrated communication platform.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.