With the prospect of a TikTok ban in the United States fast approaching, many users are flocking to a Chinese app called RedNote. Dubbed “TikTok refugees,” these users have made RedNote the most downloaded app on Apple’s US App Store as of Monday.
RedNote, known as Xiaohongshu in Chinese, is a popular platform among young people in China, Taiwan, and other Mandarin-speaking regions. With approximately 300 million monthly users, the app combines features of TikTok and Instagram. It focuses on lifestyle content, allowing users—primarily young, urban women—to share advice on topics such as dating, beauty, and fashion.
This migration comes as the Supreme Court prepares to rule on legislation that requires TikTok to sell its US operations or face a nationwide ban by January 19. TikTok has firmly stated it will not sell its US business, arguing that such a move would violate free speech rights for its 170 million American users.
The Rise of RedNote
As TikTok’s fate hangs in the balance, RedNote has embraced the influx of new users from the US. More than 63,000 posts on the app have been tagged with “TikTok refugee,” with American users exchanging tips on navigating the platform and even learning basic Chinese phrases.
“To our Chinese hosts, thanks for having us—sorry in advance for the chaos,” one new US user posted.
Despite its welcoming environment, RedNote has faced criticism similar to TikTok regarding censorship. Reports suggest that content critical of the Chinese government is often removed from the platform. Additionally, in Taiwan, government officials are prohibited from using RedNote due to perceived security risks associated with Chinese-owned software.
Cultural Exchange and Security Concerns
The arrival of US users has prompted humorous exchanges with Chinese users. Some have jokingly referred to themselves as “Chinese spies,” referencing American concerns that TikTok could be used by the Chinese government for espionage and propaganda.
Interestingly, RedNote’s name, Xiaohongshu, translates to “Little Red Book.” While the app’s developers insist the name is unrelated to Mao Zedong’s famous book of quotations, the association hasn’t gone unnoticed. However, these security and cultural concerns haven’t deterred American users eager to explore the app.
For some, joining RedNote is a way to protest against government actions. Sarah Fotheringham, a 37-year-old school canteen worker from Utah, sees it as an act of defiance.
“I’m just a simple person living a simple life,” she told the BBC through a RedNote message. “If China wants my data that bad, they can have it.”
Marcus Robinson, a fashion designer from Virginia, joined RedNote over the weekend to showcase his clothing brand and gain a competitive edge. He admitted to some initial hesitation about agreeing to the app’s Mandarin terms and conditions but ultimately decided to take the risk.
New Opportunities
The shift to RedNote has also created new opportunities for users to expand their networks and build audiences. Tennessee tech worker Sydney Crawley said she gained over 6,000 followers within 24 hours of creating her account.
“Even if TikTok doesn’t get banned, I’ll keep using RedNote,” Crawley told the BBC. “It’s exciting to see what connections, friendships, or opportunities might come from it.”
Fotheringham shared a similar sentiment, saying the app has given her a glimpse into Chinese culture and everyday life.
“I’m learning so much about regular Chinese people—their culture, their schools, their lives. It’s been fascinating and so much fun,” she said.
Challenges Ahead
While RedNote offers a fresh start for some, challenges remain. Users unfamiliar with Mandarin may struggle to navigate the app, although many are finding ways to adapt.
“I love RedNote so far,” Robinson said. “I just need to learn how to speak Mandarin!”
As the TikTok ban deadline approaches, uncertainty looms. Even if TikTok avoids an outright ban