Zoho is gearing up to introduce full end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for text messages in its messaging app Arattai, the company’s CEO, Mani Vembu, recently confirmed. This move is part of a broader push to bolster privacy across the platform.
In a discussion with India Today, Vembu explained that calls and video chats already benefit from encryption, but text messaging currently does not. While Arattai does offer a “secret chat” mode today, it’s optional and not the default. Zoho intends to change that. “We already support encryption for calls and videos… Even in messages, we have something called Secret Chat … but that is not the default,” Vembu said. He added the firm is actively working to roll out E2EE for all users. India Today
By making encrypted text chats standard, Arattai would move closer to matching global rivals like WhatsApp and Signal, which have long made encryption a “core” feature. Moneycontrol+1
Why This Matters
- User Privacy Gains
With E2EE, messages are encrypted on the sender’s device and decrypted only on the receiver’s device, ensuring that even the service provider cannot read them. This significantly reduces risks from interception or data leaks. - Competitive Positioning
Adding encryption helps Arattai compete with established secure messaging apps. It strengthens the platform’s appeal, especially among users who care deeply about privacy and security. - Addressing Criticism
Since its surge in popularity, Arattai has faced scrutiny for lacking default encryption for regular chats. The planned update can help quiet critics and reassure users about data protection. - Backing the “Made in India” Push
As more Indian users look for domestic alternatives to global apps, privacy and security become key differentiators. Arattai’s encryption feature aligns with that sentiment.
What Zoho Says & What’s Next
Vembu mentioned that although Zoho had initially planned to roll out the feature in November, they’ve accelerated the schedule due to high demand.
He emphasized that Arattai will not monetize via ads or by mining user data, reinforcing the company’s stance on user-first privacy.
Still, the exact timeline and technical rollout details—such as whether encryption will be opt-in or mandatory from the start—remain uncertain. What is clear is that Zoho views this as a high priority.
Along with this announcement, Zoho is also exploring how Arattai can evolve into a larger platform, possibly allowing third-party integrations and services inside the app. India Today
Testing Reputation and Scaling Challenges
Arattai’s recent growth has been meteoric. Vembu shared that daily sign-ups jumped from around 3,500 to over 350,000 within a week. India Today
That surge tested Zoho’s infrastructure; encryption rollout must be seamless despite increased traffic. The company’s engineers face both performance and security challenges.
Outlook & What to Watch
- Rollout Phases: Encryption might be introduced in stages—perhaps first for new chats or via opt-in before becoming default.
- User Experience: How backward compatibility or migration of old chats works will be key.
- Regulatory & Compliance: Zoho will need to balance encryption with legal or government requirements for data access, especially in India.
- Adoption & Trust: The success of this move depends on convincing users that Arattai is as secure or more secure than long-trusted alternatives.
In sum, Zoho’s move to integrate end-to-end encryption for text messaging in Arattai is a bold step toward privacy leadership. If done well, it could elevate the app’s reputation and make it a serious contender in the secure messaging space.
