Summary

• Rednote, a Chinese social media app, is experiencing a surge in popularity in the US, potentially replacing TikTok if the latter is banned.
• Blending features of Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok, Rednote boasts a $17 billion valuation, backed by Alibaba and Tencent.
• A mass migration of TikTok creators and users to Rednote has propelled it to the top of the US App Store charts.

The potential US ban of TikTok has created a vacuum in the social media landscape, rapidly filled by the Chinese app, Rednote. Facing legal challenges throughout 2024, including a House-passed ban bill in March and a Department of Justice lawsuit in October, TikTok's future in the US is precarious. Unless the Supreme Court intervenes, its removal from app stores is scheduled for January 19, 2025.

This looming ban has spurred US users and creators to seek alternatives, with Rednote emerging as a leading contender. Known as Xiaohongshu (XHS) in China, Rednote combines elements of Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok. Initially focused on product reviews, it evolved into a significant platform for Chinese beauty and health influencers, particularly popular among women (over 70% of its user base). Backed by Tencent and Alibaba, it holds a $17 billion valuation (July 2024).

Rednote's Rise to the Top of the US App Store

Rednote's design, incorporating elements similar to TikTok and Pinterest, has propelled it to the top of the US App Store charts, surpassing apps like Lemon8, ChatGPT, and Threads. Its position as the most downloaded app in the US (as of January 13th) reflects the influx of TikTok creators establishing a presence. The app's rapid growth is generating viral content on TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram, with even Chinese users welcoming the new American users.

The irony of TikTok's potential demise due to its Chinese origins, only to be replaced by another Chinese app, is not lost on many. Rednote's sustained popularity beyond the immediate aftermath of the potential TikTok ban remains to be seen. However, a complete TikTok removal from US app stores could significantly boost Rednote's user base even further.