Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — As the potential TikTok ban in the United States on January 19 looms, millions of Americans were seen flocking to RedNote, a lifestyle app surging in popularity as a potential alternative. On Monday, January 13, RedNote became the most downloaded free app on the Apple App Store in the U.S., signaling a dramatic shift among users preparing for TikTok’s possible exit.
RedNote, known in China as Xiaohongshu (meaning “little red book” in Mandarin), is emerging as the digital refuge for what some are calling the “TikTok refugees.”
Described by its developers as “a lifestyle platform for young people to share real, diverse, and beautiful experiences while discovering the life they aspire to,” RedNote blends short videos, lifestyle content, and social commerce features. Originally designed for Chinese users, the app has resonated globally, especially among TikTok fans seeking alternatives.
“The reason so many Americans are coming at once is that TikTok will soon be banned in the United States,” said WakoGeek, a new RedNote user, as reported by the New York Post.
RedNote offers familiar features to TikTok users, such as short-form videos and community-driven content, but it distinguishes itself by emphasizing lifestyle inspiration, product reviews, and integrated shopping options.
Explosive Growth
RedNote’s meteoric rise began during the COVID-19 pandemic, gaining traction among younger Chinese users, particularly women, who now comprise 79% of its 300 million monthly active users. This growth has extended internationally, with American users now fueling its recent surge.
Social commerce tools and a focus on community building have been key drivers of RedNote’s success in both China and the United States.
Backed by Major Investors
The app’s growing popularity hasn’t gone unnoticed by investors. RedNote has raised $917 million in venture capital from prominent backers like Tencent, Alibaba, and Sequoia China. According to Bloomberg, the company reached a valuation of $17 billion in 2024 following a secondary stock sale, with profits projected to exceed $1 billion.
Despite its Chinese ownership, RedNote’s success highlights how American users prioritize engaging content and community experiences over geopolitical concerns.
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Comparison to TikTok
While comparisons to TikTok are inevitable, RedNote offers a distinct user experience. TikTok’s primary focus is short-form video, whereas RedNote leans closer to Instagram, providing a broader range of lifestyle content, including photos, in-depth reviews, and active community discussions.
As tensions surrounding TikTok’s future intensify, RedNote’s ascent reflects a broader shift in the social media landscape, as users search for platforms that combine creativity, community, and commerce in a new digital era.
(Raidi/Agung)
