In a groundbreaking development for the messaging ecosystem, WhatsApp has started testing a feature that could soon allow users to send messages across platforms—specifically to Arattai, India’s homegrown messaging app developed by Zoho Corporation. The move signifies a potential shift in how digital communication may evolve in the coming years, with interoperability between apps emerging as the next big frontier.

Arattai: India’s Rising Alternative to WhatsApp

Developed by Chennai-based Zoho, Arattai has rapidly gained traction in India as a secure, feature-rich, and privacy-focused alternative to WhatsApp. The app has seen a surge in downloads over recent weeks, reflecting growing interest among users seeking homegrown solutions for messaging and collaboration.

Zoho’s founder, Sridhar Vembu, has been a vocal proponent of cross-platform compatibility between messaging services, advocating for systems that function like UPI, where interoperability allows users of different apps to transact seamlessly. According to Vembu, “Messaging systems should be open and interoperable like email and UPI, not closed ecosystems controlled by a single company.”

WhatsApp’s Cross-Platform Messaging: The Next Big Leap

Reports from WaBetaInfo, a popular WhatsApp feature tracker, reveal that WhatsApp is currently testing a cross-messaging feature that will enable users to send and receive messages from other messaging apps—including Arattai—without switching platforms.

This functionality is currently available only to beta testers in Europe, as WhatsApp works to ensure that all connected apps adhere to its strict end-to-end encryption and data privacy standards. For now, only one third-party app, BirdyChat, is integrated under this test phase. However, with the growing global interest in open messaging standards, Arattai could soon be next in line.

Why Now? The EU’s Digital Markets Act Drives Change

The timing of WhatsApp’s move is closely linked to regulatory developments in the European Union. The EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), enacted in 2024, mandates major digital platforms like WhatsApp to enable communication with rival services to prevent monopolistic behavior and promote user choice.

As part of this compliance, WhatsApp must offer a secure, transparent, and privacy-compliant way for third-party apps to connect. This ensures that messages exchanged across different platforms remain encrypted and protected—an essential aspect for maintaining user trust.

Arattai’s Role in India’s Messaging Landscape

While Arattai is still in the process of implementing end-to-end encryption, its founder has confirmed that this critical feature will be rolled out soon. The app already offers a range of features such as voice and video calls, group chats, media sharing, and cloud sync, making it a viable alternative for Indian users looking for a Made-in-India solution.

If cross-messaging becomes a global standard, Arattai could greatly benefit by expanding its interoperability with WhatsApp, Telegram, and other international platforms. This would position it as a key player in India’s digital self-reliance movement, aligning with the government’s push for data sovereignty and local innovation.

What’s Next for Users and Developers

At present, WhatsApp’s cross-platform messaging feature remains limited to Europe, with no confirmed rollout timeline for other regions such as India. However, as global regulatory frameworks evolve, cross-messaging could become an industry-wide trend.

For developers, this presents both opportunities and challenges: ensuring encryption standards, maintaining privacy compliance, and integrating smoothly with existing systems will be crucial for successful interoperability.

Conclusion

The possibility of WhatsApp users messaging Arattai users without leaving the app represents a significant step toward open communication ecosystems. While this feature is still in testing, it marks a pivotal shift in how messaging apps may evolve—from closed platforms to interconnected, user-centric networks.

If WhatsApp’s trials prove successful, India could soon witness a new era of cross-platform connectivity, with Arattai leading the charge as a truly indigenous alternative that stands shoulder to shoulder with global giants.

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