A wave of “TikTok refugees” has propelled RedNote to the top of Apple’s US App Store rankings. As a TikTok ban approaches, many users in the US are turning to RedNote, a Chinese app.
The influx has made RedNote, a competitor to TikTok, the most downloaded app on Monday. This platform is already popular among young people in China, Taiwan, and other Mandarin-speaking regions.
With 300 million monthly users, RedNote blends TikTok’s video sharing with Instagram’s social features. It attracts mostly young, urban women who share lifestyle tips on topics like dating and fashion.
RedNote Welcomes New Users, Despite Concerns
The US Supreme Court is set to rule on a law requiring TikTok to sell its US operations or face a ban by January 19. TikTok has refused to sell and argues that a ban would infringe on free speech protections for its 170 million US users.
Meanwhile, RedNote has embraced its growing user base, with over 63,000 posts under the hashtag “TikTok refugee.” These posts help newcomers learn app features and basic Chinese phrases.
“To our Chinese hosts, thanks for having us—sorry in advance for the chaos,” one US user joked.
Despite its popularity, RedNote faces criticism for reported censorship, particularly on topics involving the Chinese government. In Taiwan, public officials are barred from using the app over security concerns related to Chinese software.
Some Chinese users have humorously labeled themselves “Chinese spies,” referencing US fears of TikTok’s potential misuse for espionage. RedNote’s Chinese name, Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book), has sparked questions, but the app denies any link to Mao Zedong’s book of quotations.
Users Weigh Security Risks Against Benefits
Security concerns have not stopped many from joining. For some, the app represents an act of defiance.
“I’m just a simple person,” said Sarah Fotheringham, a 37-year-old school worker in Utah. “If China wants my data, they can have it.”
Marcus Robinson, a Virginia-based fashion designer, joined RedNote to showcase his clothing line. Though wary of terms written in Mandarin, he said, “I took my chance.”
For some, RedNote is becoming a new favorite, even as TikTok’s fate remains uncertain. Sydney Crawley, a tech worker from Tennessee, gained 6,000 followers within a day of joining.
“Even if TikTok survives, I’ll keep building my presence here,” she said. “The connections and opportunities are worth it.”
Others appreciate the cultural exchange. “RedNote opened my world to China and its people,” said Fotheringham. “It’s been so much fun learning about their lives.”
While RedNote’s community has been welcoming, users like Robinson feel there’s still a learning curve. “I love the app so far,” he said. “I just need to learn Mandarin!”
