Startup Originals Team
Home-grown messaging platform Arattai, backed by Zoho Corporation, has rolled out end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for one-on-one chats across Android, iOS and desktop devices, marking a major privacy upgrade for its user base.
What the Update Entails:
With this update, all direct (individual) conversations are encrypted locally on the sender’s device before being sent, meaning only the sender and recipient can view the contents. Once both participants in a chat have updated to the required app versions (v1.33.6 on Android, v1.17.23 on iOS, v1.0.7 on desktop), a new encrypted chat session is created and the legacy un-encrypted session is archived as read-only.
Notably, if one user is on the newer version and their contact is not, the older chat continues for up to three days as a transitional buffer; after which the upgrade becomes mandatory and all chats will shift to encrypted mode.
Why This Upgrade Matters:
Messaging privacy has become a key differentiator among communication platforms. By enabling full encryption for individual chats, Arattai aligns itself with global standards of secure messaging and enhances trust for users seeking stronger privacy protection. Given its positioning as an Indian alternative to global apps, this update is a strategic step to bolster credibility.
What’s Next: Group Chats & Backups:
While individual chats are now encrypted, Arattai has confirmed that encryption for group chats is still under development and will be rolled out in the coming weeks for selected group sizes.Additionally, support for encrypted backups, allowing users to securely archive encrypted conversations, is expected to launch shortly.
Implications for Users & Adoption:
Users of Arattai should update their apps promptly to ensure their chats transition to the new encrypted mode. The visual indicator of a shield icon next to a contact’s name will confirm the chat is secured. Legacy chats remain accessible but are archived and not actively used once encryption is activated.
For the platform, the feature could accelerate adoption among privacy-conscious users and strengthen its position as a domestically-developed messaging alternative in India’s competitive market. Ensuring seamless rollout, addressing any usability friction, and aligning features (group encryption, backups) will be critical for sustained growth.
