Americans Flock to RedNote as Alternative Amid Looming TikTok Ban
As TikTok faces a potential ban, many Americans are turning to RedNote for their social media fix
RedNote, TikTok, Social Media, USA, Chinese Apps
Washington: With the US government threatening to ban TikTok, folks are jumping ship to a new app called RedNote. This Chinese social media platform is mixing things up, blending features from Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. It’s becoming the go-to spot for many Americans looking for a new online hangout.
RedNote, which launched back in 2013, has gained a lot of traction lately. It’s got around 300 million monthly users, which is a lot, but still less than TikTok. Despite that, it’s valued at over $3 billion and has pulled in nearly $1 billion in funding. Pretty impressive, right?
So, why the sudden interest? Well, with the TikTok ban looming, people are exploring their options. While many thought Instagram would get a boost, a lot of users are hesitant to support Meta, especially after some recent controversial comments from their CEO. So, they’re giving RedNote a shot.
Even though RedNote is mostly in Mandarin, it’s shot up to the top of the Apple App Store. Some TikTok influencers are even telling their followers to switch over. There are already about 63,000 posts tagged “TikTok refugee” on RedNote, helping newcomers learn the ropes and pick up some basic Chinese phrases.
It’s kind of ironic, isn’t it? A bill aimed at stopping Chinese influence has led to Americans downloading a Chinese app. And in China, people can’t even use TikTok! One user joked about how people are finding themselves chatting with Chinese users and breaking down barriers.
Another user chimed in, saying it’s hilarious that TikTok refugees are flocking to a Chinese-owned app instead of sticking with Meta or YouTube. It’s wild how everyone is learning Mandarin and the existing users are super friendly.
Some TikTokers even protested outside the U.S. Supreme Court Building. It’s a whole vibe! Screenshots show American users getting help with English homework from Chinese friends, while they teach Mandarin in return.
If the ban goes through, TikTok won’t just disappear overnight. It’ll still be on phones, but new downloads will be off the table after January 19. Without updates, it might just fade away eventually.