Archive · 16 Nov 2025
Zoho's Arattai Messaging App to Implement Mandatory End-to-End Encryption
Zoho, a tech company, is making its messaging app called Arattai much safer.
They are adding a special secret code called end-to-end encryption to all messages.
This means only the person sending the message and the person receiving it can read them, not even Zoho can see what's inside.
This is a big change that required rebuilding parts of the app.
They are testing it with many of their own workers to make sure it works perfectly.
First, they will make it work for talking to one friend, then for group chats.
Everyone will have to update their app soon because it's a required change.
Zoho is doing this to protect everyone's privacy and to build technology from India.
Zoho's messaging app, Arattai, is set to receive mandatory end-to-end encryption (E2EE).
This significant update requires a complete redesign of the app's internal architecture.
The encryption will initially be applied to one-to-one chats, with group conversations to follow.
Approximately 6,000 Zoho employees are currently testing the new encrypted version.
The rollout is expected within days, and users will be required to update the app.
- Who
- Zoho, including co-founder and Chief Scientist Sridhar Vembu
- What
- Implementing mandatory end-to-end encryption (E2EE) across its messaging platform, Arattai.
- When
- Rollout is expected within days, pending successful final testing and remote activation.
- Where
- Globally for Arattai users.
- Why
- To enhance user privacy and security, aligning with Zoho's philosophy of minimal data invasion and building 'sovereign tech' within India.
Zoho's Perspective
User's Perspective
Data Monetization vs. Privacy Focus
Zoho's Perspective
Zoho's philosophy avoids data monetization, prioritizing user privacy and minimal invasion.
User's Perspective
Users benefit from enhanced privacy, as messages will be unreadable even by Zoho.
Mandatory Update Requirement
Zoho's Perspective
The infrastructure change necessitates a mandatory upgrade for all users to ensure Arattai functions correctly.
User's Perspective
Users must update the app, which could be an inconvenience, to continue using the service.
- App Name
- Arattai
- Company
- Zoho
- Update Type
- Mandatory End-to-End Encryption (E2EE)
- Rollout Plan
- Starts with one-to-one chats, then expands to group conversations.
- Testing Phase
- Currently being tested by approximately 6,000 Zoho employees.
- Expected Deployment
- Within days, pending satisfactory final test results and remote activation.
- Architecture Change
- Required a complete redesign of the app's internal architecture.