In a world dominated by global messaging apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram, India finally has its own alternative — Arattai, developed by Zoho Corporation. Designed as a homegrown social media and communication platform, Arattai offers the familiar simplicity of WhatsApp combined with enhanced privacy, local data storage, and several thoughtful features.
Whether you’re someone looking to try an Indian-made app or simply want to experiment with a cleaner, more privacy-centric messaging tool, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from installation and registration to customization and feature usage.
1. What Is Arattai and Why It Matters
Before jumping into the steps, let’s understand what Arattai is and why it’s gaining attention.
Arattai, which means “chat” in Tamil, is a free Indian messaging and social media app built by Zoho Corporation, one of India’s leading software companies known for Zoho Mail, Zoho CRM, and Zoho Workplace. The app functions much like WhatsApp but has a significant difference — your data stays within India, stored on servers owned by Zoho.
With the rise of concerns over data privacy, foreign control of communication apps, and monetization of user information, Arattai’s local, ad-free, and encrypted ecosystem feels refreshing. It’s an app made for Indians, by Indians, with an interface that feels instantly familiar.
2. System Requirements and Download Size
Let’s begin with the basics. Arattai is lightweight and optimized for both Android and iOS devices.
- On Google Play Store: Around 35 MB, compatible with Android 7.0 and above.
- On Apple App Store: Around 450 MB, compatible with iOS 12 and above.
- Permissions Needed: Access to contacts, storage, microphone, and camera (for calls and media sharing).
Because the app is small in size, it installs quickly on mid-range smartphones and consumes minimal background battery compared to WhatsApp or Telegram.
👉 Official download links:
- Android: Arattai on Google Play Store
- iOS: Arattai on App Store
3. How to Download and Install Arattai
Installing Arattai is straightforward and similar to any other communication app.
Steps to install on Android:
- Open Google Play Store.
- Search for “Arattai” (by Zoho Corporation).
- Tap Install.
- Wait for the app to download (~35 MB).
- Once installed, tap Open.
Steps to install on iPhone:
- Open the App Store.
- Search for Arattai.
- Tap Get → Install.
- Wait for the installation to finish (approx. 450 MB).
- Tap Open to launch.
Once opened, you’ll see a clean welcome interface prompting you to register.
4. How to Register and Create an Account
Arattai’s registration process is simple and fast. You don’t need an email or Zoho ID — just a valid mobile number.
Steps to sign up:
- Open the app and tap Continue & Agree.
- Enter your mobile number.
- Wait for the OTP (One-Time Password) to arrive.
- Enter the OTP and confirm.
- Your account is created instantly.
Once inside, you’ll be greeted with the main dashboard containing three primary tabs — Stories, Meetings, Chats, and Calls.
5. Understanding the Main Interface
The interface is refreshingly clean, minimal, and familiar if you’ve used WhatsApp or Telegram before.
At the top, you’ll find four main sections:
- Stories – similar to WhatsApp’s Status.
- Meetings – for scheduling or joining video calls.
- Chats – for messaging contacts.
- Calls – for voice and video calls.
Navigation feels snappy and visually consistent, with smooth animations and clear typography. The design avoids clutter, focusing on communication efficiency.
6. How to Use Status (Stories) in Arattai
Like WhatsApp, Arattai lets you post photos, videos, or text as temporary stories.
To post your status:
- Tap the Stories tab.
- Choose to record directly or select a photo/video from the gallery.
- Add text, emoji, or filters.
- Tap Post.
You’ll also see Arattai’s own sample story when you first join — it demonstrates how the status feature works.
You can view others’ statuses or reply to them privately within chat.
7. Using Chats, Contacts, and Messaging
The Chat tab is where you’ll spend most of your time.
When you tap the + icon, Arattai automatically scans your contact list and shows who else is using the app.
To start a chat:
- Tap Chat → + icon.
- Select a contact.
- Type a message and tap Send.
Messages show single and double ticks similar to WhatsApp.
- A single tick means sent.
- A double tick means delivered.
- A blue tick (if enabled) means read.
You can also:
- Send photos, documents, or location.
- Delete messages for everyone or for yourself.
- Share contacts directly.
💡 Note: The first time you send a photo or file, the app might appear slightly slower than WhatsApp, especially if your network is unstable. This will improve as servers expand.
8. How to Make Calls and Video Calls
Arattai supports both voice and video calls with end-to-end encryption.
To make a call:
- Tap the Calls tab.
- Press the + icon.
- Choose the contact you wish to call.
- Select Voice Call or Video Call.
During testing, call quality was solid with minimal delay. The app also allows group video meetings, which is an advantage for small teams or families.
9. How to Use Meetings in Arattai
This is one of Arattai’s standout features.
Unlike WhatsApp, it includes a Meetings section similar to Google Meet or Zoom — ideal for professionals, students, and families.
How to start a meeting:
- Go to Meetings → Join Now or Schedule Meeting.
- Allow camera and microphone permissions.
- Invite others by link or phone number.
- Start your meeting.
Arattai even allows recording your meetings, which can be helpful for work summaries or online classes — a feature missing from most free messaging apps.
10. Privacy, Security, and Account Settings
Privacy is central to Arattai’s identity.
Navigate to Settings → Account Privacy to find:
- Read Receipts toggle
- Last Seen visibility (Everyone, My Contacts, Nobody)
- Blocked contacts list
- Password Lock for chats
- Change number or Delete account
Arattai also provides full control over who can message you, who can view your last seen, and whether your read receipts are visible.
For professionals, this adds a layer of calm — fewer spam messages and better control.
11. Customization Options (Themes, Fonts & Storage)
A pleasant surprise is how deeply you can personalize the app’s look and behavior.
Change Fonts and Chat Behavior
- Go to Settings → Personalize.
- Enable Enter-to-Send, Quick Reactions, or Voice Message Confirmation.
- Choose a Font Style — modern, classic, or bold.
Manage Storage & Media Quality
- Open Settings → Data and Storage.
- Decide when media should auto-download (Wi-Fi / Mobile Data).
- Set Auto-Delete Messages after 1 week, 1 month, or 1 year.
- Adjust Upload Quality to “High Quality” for better photos and videos.
Change Chat Themes and Backgrounds
- Go to Settings → Appearance.
- Choose a color theme or custom background.
- You can even pick your own gallery photo as a wallpaper.
These small touches make the app feel truly personal — much like customizing a desktop workspace.
12. Profile Setup and Username Creation
Now let’s personalize your profile.
- Tap your profile picture → Edit (Pencil icon).
- Add your name, bio, and profile photo.
- Create a unique username — this acts like an ID that others can search (similar to Instagram @handles).
For example, if your username is @rahul_mehta, anyone can search that name to start chatting instantly.
This feature allows you to connect without sharing phone numbers — perfect for privacy-conscious users.
13. Testing Performance and Bugs
During early testing, users noticed a few small issues such as:
- Slower media uploads compared to WhatsApp.
- Occasional delay in message ticks updating.
- Slight lag during first-time video calls.
However, these are typical for any new platform and have been improving with updates. Zoho’s active development team pushes regular bug fixes and stability improvements.
Performance-wise, Arattai feels secure, smooth, and light on system resources — especially on Android phones under 10 GB RAM.
14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is Arattai free to use?
Yes. Arattai is completely free and has no ads or subscription fees.
Q2. Does it work on both Android and iPhone?
Yes. It’s available on both platforms and offers nearly identical interfaces.
Q3. Is Arattai safe and encrypted?
Absolutely. It uses end-to-end encryption, ensuring only you and your contact can read your messages.
Q4. Can I use Arattai on multiple devices?
Yes. You can link it with other devices (like WhatsApp Web) under Device and Sections.
Q5. Can meetings be recorded?
Yes. Arattai provides an option to record meetings directly inside the app.
Q6. Where is Arattai’s data stored?
All data is stored on servers in India, managed by Zoho Corporation.
15. Final Thoughts
Arattai is more than just another chat app — it’s India’s step toward digital self-reliance.
Built with Zoho’s trusted infrastructure, it delivers privacy, speed, and functionality that easily rival established players.
From customizable themes to meeting recording and strong encryption, Arattai combines the comfort of WhatsApp with the professionalism of Zoom and Telegram’s flexibility.
If you care about privacy and want to support Indian innovation, this app deserves a place on your phone.
👉 Download Arattai here: https://www.arattai.in/
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. Features described are accurate as of October 2025. Always verify the latest app version, terms of service, and privacy policy before installation.
Tags: Arattai, Arattai app, Indian social media, Zoho Corporation, WhatsApp alternative, Arattai features, Arattai guide, Made in India apps, secure messaging, end-to-end encryption
Hashtags: #Arattai #Zoho #DigitalIndia #MadeInIndia #MessagingApp #DataPrivacy #ArattaiApp
