WhatsApp Adds Powerful New AI Features as Arattai App Hits Record Downloads in India
Date: October 1, 2025
Author: [Techriewsmode]
The battle for India’s messaging space just got more interesting. On one side, WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has introduced a series of AI-powered features designed to make chats more personal and creative. On the other, Arattai, a homegrown Indian app developed by Zoho, is experiencing a massive surge in downloads, proving that Indian users are increasingly open to alternatives.
This blog takes a closer look at WhatsApp’s new features, Arattai’s rising popularity, and what this competition means for the future of messaging apps in India.
WhatsApp’s Latest Update: What’s New?
WhatsApp is still the most widely used messaging app in India, with more than 500 million active users. But Meta knows the competition is heating up. To stay ahead, WhatsApp has rolled out several exciting AI features:
1. AI-Powered Chat Themes
Users can now create personalized chat themes using Meta AI. Instead of choosing from limited wallpaper options, you can simply type a prompt like:
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“A cozy café in the mountains”
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“Diwali festival lights”
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“Space galaxy theme”
Within seconds, WhatsApp generates a unique chat background that matches your imagination.
Why it matters: Personalization is the future of communication apps. Users don’t just want to chat; they want to express their personality.
2. AI Stickers and Emojis
WhatsApp is making conversations more interactive with AI-generated stickers and emojis. You can describe an expression, object, or even a mood, and Meta AI will instantly create a sticker pack for you.
Example: Type “happy puppy wearing sunglasses” and you’ll get a custom sticker that fits the vibe.
3. Smarter AI Tools for Everyday Use
Meta has hinted that upcoming updates will include:
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AI-powered summaries for long messages or group chats.
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Smart reply suggestions to save time.
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Content generation for WhatsApp Channels, helping creators and businesses publish engaging updates faster.
Arattai App: India’s Local Challenger
While WhatsApp dominates, Arattai is fast becoming the “Indian WhatsApp alternative.” Developed by Zoho, Arattai means “chit-chat” in Tamil, and the app is designed with Indian users in mind.
Why Arattai is Trending in 2025
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Privacy-first design → Unlike WhatsApp, Arattai claims not to monetize user data.
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Lightweight and fast → Works well on low-end smartphones and even in areas with weak internet.
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Regional language support → Essential for India’s diverse user base.
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Ad-free experience → Keeps the interface clean and distraction-free.
In September 2025, Arattai crossed record-breaking download numbers, fueled by the growing “support Indian apps” movement and concerns about foreign platforms storing data overseas.
WhatsApp vs Arattai: Feature Comparison
| Feature | WhatsApp (Meta) | Arattai (Zoho) |
|---|---|---|
| User Base in India | ~500M+ users | Growing rapidly, ~50M+ downloads |
| AI Features | AI chat themes, stickers, smart replies | Basic personalization, no AI yet |
| Data Privacy | Criticized for Meta’s data policies | Strong privacy focus, local servers |
| Languages Supported | 11 Indian languages + global ones | Regional-first approach |
| Monetization | Business APIs, Channels, ads coming | Free, ad-free, no monetization yet |
Why This Competition Matters
India is WhatsApp’s largest market, but it’s also a testing ground for alternatives. The rise of Arattai shows that:
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Users are more aware of privacy issues.
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Indian startups can stand up to global tech giants.
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Competition pushes faster innovation.
Just like UPI apps revolutionized payments, India’s messaging apps may also become more localized and innovative.
What This Means for Indian Users
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More Choice → Users are no longer locked into one platform.
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Better Features → WhatsApp is innovating faster because of competition.
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Stronger Privacy Options → Arattai’s success pressures WhatsApp to strengthen its privacy game.
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Localized Experience → Expect more Indian festivals, themes, and language tools on both apps.
Expert Opinion: Can Arattai Beat WhatsApp?
Realistically, WhatsApp won’t lose dominance overnight. Its deep integration with businesses, payments, and global communication gives it a strong edge.
However, Arattai is winning trust by focusing on:
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Local culture
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Simplicity
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Privacy
If Arattai adds AI features, video enhancements, and cross-platform tools, it could become a serious competitor in the next 3–5 years.
FAQs
1. What are WhatsApp’s new features in 2025?
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AI-powered chat themes
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AI-generated stickers and emojis
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Smart reply suggestions
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Group chat summaries
2. Is Arattai safer than WhatsApp?
Yes. Arattai emphasizes privacy and local data storage, while WhatsApp has faced criticism for sharing data with Meta.
3. Can Arattai replace WhatsApp in India?
Not immediately. WhatsApp has a massive user base, but Arattai is carving out a loyal audience that values privacy and simplicity.
4. How many downloads does Arattai have?
As of September 2025, Arattai achieved record-breaking downloads, crossing 50 million+ installs in India.
Final Thoughts
India’s messaging scene is entering a new era. With WhatsApp’s AI creativity tools and Arattai’s privacy-first approach, users have the best of both worlds.
For now, WhatsApp will continue to dominate, but Arattai’s rise shows that local innovation matters—and in the long run, Indian users will be the winners.
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