Silke Mayr As a potential TikTok ban looms in the US, many users are seeking alternatives. A wave of so-called “TikTok refugees” has propelled the Chinese app RedNote to the top of Apple’s US App Store rankings. With just days before the ban decision, RedNote is becoming a popular choice among TikTok users.
RedNote: The New TikTok Alternative
RedNote, a social media app blending elements of TikTok and Instagram, is popular among young, urban users. The platform boasts 300 million monthly users, primarily from China, Taiwan, and other Mandarin-speaking regions. Its content revolves around lifestyle topics like fashion and dating, attracting a primarily female audience.
The sudden surge in downloads came as US Supreme Court justices prepared to rule on a law requiring TikTok to sell its US operations by January 19 or face a ban. TikTok has refused to sell, arguing a ban would violate the free speech rights of its 170 million US users.
RedNote’s new US users have embraced the app enthusiastically. Over 63,000 posts under the hashtag “TikTok refugee” share tips on using the platform, including navigating its interface and learning basic Chinese phrases. One user expressed gratitude to their “Chinese hosts” while jokingly apologizing for potential chaos.
Security Concerns and User Reactions
Despite RedNote’s growing popularity, concerns over censorship and data security linger. Reports suggest the app censors criticism of the Chinese government. In Taiwan, public officials are restricted from using RedNote due to fears of Chinese surveillance.
Some Chinese users humorously call themselves “Chinese spies,” referencing US officials’ fears that TikTok could facilitate Chinese espionage. RedNote’s Chinese name, Xiaohongshu, translates to “Little Red Book.” However, the company denies links to Mao Zedong’s famous work.
Security worries have not stopped users like Sarah Fotheringham, a 37-year-old from Utah, who sees joining RedNote as a form of protest. “If they want my data, they can have it,” she said. Marcus Robinson, a fashion designer from Virginia, joined to promote his brand and stay ahead of trends. While he admitted concern over Mandarin terms and conditions, he decided to take the risk.
The Future of TikTok and RedNote
Even if TikTok avoids a ban, the migration to RedNote suggests users are exploring new platforms. Some, like Tennessee tech worker Sydney Crawley, now spend more time on RedNote than TikTok. Crawley gained 6,000 followers within 24 hours and plans to continue growing her audience on the app.
RedNote has also opened cultural doors for users like Fotheringham. “I’ve learned about everyday Chinese life and culture. It’s been amazing,” she shared. Robinson echoed this sentiment, praising RedNote’s welcoming community but noting the need to learn Mandarin.
The impending TikTok ban has spurred a significant shift in social media behavior. Whether TikTok survives or not, the rise of RedNote highlights users’ willingness to explore new digital spaces.