Author: Dev Patel | EQMint
New Delhi, October 04, 2025 — The battle of internet browsers is heating up, and this time, it’s India’s turn to challenge global dominance. Chennai-based SaaS giant Zoho Corporation has launched Ulaa, a privacy-focused web browser that is increasingly being positioned as an alternative to Google Chrome. The campaign slogan “Goodbye Chrome, India Backs Ulaa” has started making waves on social media, sparking debates about digital sovereignty, privacy, and the rise of Indian-built technology on the global stage.
Ulaa vs Chrome: A Clash of Tech Titans
The comparison between Zoho’s Ulaa and Google’s Chrome is more than just about software—it reflects a larger narrative of India’s push for digital independence.
- Developer & Origin: Ulaa is built by Zoho, a homegrown Indian multinational known for its suite of cloud-based business applications. Chrome, on the other hand, is a product of Google, the American tech giant that dominates global search and browser markets.
- Market Capitalization: According to the figures circulating, Zoho’s valuation is pegged at around ₹1.04 trillion, whereas Google’s market capitalization stands at a colossal $2.45 trillion. While the numbers reveal a massive gap in scale, the comparison underlines Zoho’s aspiration to punch above its weight.
- Download Trends: In Indian app stores, Ulaa is witnessing a high rate of downloads, reflecting early enthusiasm among users curious about alternatives to Chrome. Chrome, while still dominant, is reported to have an “average” download growth curve in India.
Why Ulaa? Privacy and Local Trust
One of Ulaa’s biggest selling points is its privacy-first approach. Unlike Chrome, which is often criticized for data collection and ad-targeting practices, Ulaa markets itself as a browser that does not track user activity.
Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu has long emphasized the importance of user trust, minimal data dependency, and homegrown technology. Ulaa reflects this philosophy, appealing particularly to Indians who are increasingly concerned about data being stored and monetized by foreign companies.
India’s Digital Sovereignty Push
The rise of Ulaa also ties into India’s broader “Digital Atmanirbharta” (self-reliance) movement. Over the past few years, the Indian government and tech ecosystem have encouraged startups and corporations to build indigenous platforms that can reduce dependency on Western tech giants.
From UPI in digital payments to ONDC in e-commerce, India has shown it can innovate at scale. Ulaa fits into this narrative by aiming to reduce India’s reliance on browsers controlled by global monopolies.
Can Ulaa Take on Chrome?
Google Chrome commands an estimated 65% share of the global browser market, while alternatives like Safari, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge lag far behind. For Ulaa to meaningfully compete, it must tackle several challenges:
- Performance & Features: Chrome has years of optimization, extensions, and ecosystem integration behind it. Ulaa will need to offer not only privacy but also speed, seamless browsing, and compatibility with modern websites.
- User Retention: Downloads are only the first step. Many users may try Ulaa but switch back to Chrome if they find limitations. Building consistent user engagement will be critical.
- Global Recognition: While Ulaa is gaining traction in India, cracking international markets dominated by Google and Apple will require aggressive marketing and innovation.
- Ecosystem Lock-in: Many users rely on Chrome for syncing across devices, bookmarks, and integration with Gmail and Google Drive. Ulaa will have to build its own value-added ecosystem to wean users away from Google’s grip.
Symbolism Over Scale
Despite these hurdles, Ulaa’s rise is symbolic. It reflects India’s growing confidence in producing world-class technology that can challenge Silicon Valley. Even if Ulaa does not dethrone Chrome globally, its presence is enough to spark conversations about competition, data privacy, and the need for alternatives.
Tech analysts argue that the real victory lies not just in user numbers but in creating awareness among Indian consumers that they have a choice beyond Big Tech monopolies.
Zoho’s Broader Vision
Zoho is no stranger to global competition. Over the years, it has taken on giants like Microsoft and Salesforce with its Zoho One business suite, winning customers in more than 180 countries. Its philosophy of bootstrapping, focusing on profitability, and building from India for the world has earned it admiration in the startup community.
With Ulaa, Zoho is extending its vision from enterprise productivity to everyday consumer internet, a move that could significantly expand its global footprint if successful.
The Road Ahead
As of now, Ulaa is at the beginning of its journey. If it continues to attract downloads and active users, it could establish itself as a serious alternative for privacy-conscious users in India and abroad. Google Chrome’s dominance will not be easy to challenge, but the very fact that Indian users are willing to try something new shows a shift in consumer behavior.
In an era where data is power, browsers like Ulaa offer a way to reclaim control. Whether it becomes a mainstream alternative or remains a niche product, its emergence sends a strong message: India is ready to back its own tech champions.
Conclusion
“Goodbye Chrome, India Backs Ulaa” may sound like a bold headline, but it captures the growing sentiment of digital independence in India. With increasing awareness about data privacy and a thriving tech ecosystem, Zoho’s Ulaa has positioned itself as more than just a browser—it is a statement of intent.
The road to competing with Chrome will be long, but in a world dominated by American tech giants, the rise of Ulaa demonstrates that Indian innovation is not just surviving—it’s fighting for relevance on the global stage.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on information available from public sources. It has not been reported by EQMint journalists. EQMint has compiled and presented the content for informational purposes only and does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. Readers are advised to verify details independently before relying on them.
