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I’ll Explain RedNote: Is The Chinese App Suitable For Your Business?

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Published on January 21, 2025

When the Supreme Court upheld a law to ban TikTok (after TikTok failed to divest from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance), many of the app’s American users flocked to an unexpected alternative: RedNote.

The Chinese-owned app, natively known as Xiaohongshu, is one of China’s most popular social media platforms and is best described as a cross between TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest.

However, because RedNote is also subject to China’s data laws and collects large amounts of data like TikTok – such as user browsing habits and IP addresses – critics of the app have been voicing their security concerns.

In light of RedNote’s sudden surge in popularity, I’m going to delve into the app further, examine why “TikTok refugees” have flooded the platform, and assess if the app is a suitable alternative for your business.

What Is RedNote? And Why the Surge in Popularity?

According to its Google Play store description, RedNote markets itself as a community and lifestyle app where “millions of users share their daily stuff, like their fave music, cool music looks, yummy cooking recipes… and even their cute cats and dogs.”

Though RedNote isn’t a direct equivalent to TikTok, it features an algorithm-driven “Trending” feed. The feed allows users to scroll through static posts and short-form videos, gradually curating a feed that corresponds with their interests. Additionally, it’s also known for its seamless ecommerce integration, which enables users to purchase products directly through the app.

As fears over the TikTok ban began to grow, we saw an influx of American users jumping onto RedNote and engaging with these features, with the app also reaching the top of the App Store’s free app charts.

A screenshot from Duolingo's X showing the rise in Mandarin learners on the app. Source: Website Builder Expert — RedNote’s popularity has also sparked a cultural phenomenon, with Duolingo noticing a 216% spike in Mandarin learners. Source: X

For the most part, the arrival of “TikTok refugees” on RedNote has reflected growing discontent among the TikTok community. Many TikTok creators were upset with the ban because it blocked a key income stream, while other users joined RedNote in protest and viewed the ban as a threat to their free speech online.

Is It a Suitable TikTok Alternative for Your Business?

Though you might be intrigued by RedNote and its meteoric rise overseas, you may want to think twice if you’re considering the platform as a viable TikTok alternative for your business. Despite being home to many appealing features, there are a few reasons why RedNote might not be a perfect fit:

Language barriers – Despite efforts being made to translate the app for overseas users, RedNote is primarily catered towards a Chinese audience with most of its content being in Mandarin. If your business is selling internationally but doesn’t have a target audience in this region, it may not be the best choice.
Different content focus – Your videos may not align with RedNote’s style of content. For example, TikTok is more focused on viral trends and discourse on cultural issues, while RedNote has a heavier emphasis on building communities and polished lifestyle content (it also doesn’t allow political posts.)
Privacy concerns – Depending on your point of view, you may feel apprehensive towards how your data is used on the app. If you don’t feel comfortable accepting RedNote’s privacy policy and allowing the app to collect your personal data, I’d give it a miss.

💡Another thing to consider: There is a chance that RedNote could face similar restrictions in the US due to concerns over security. In the long term, the app may not be the most sustainable option for your business.

Screenshot of an X post noting the cultural exchange between Chinese and American users on RedNote — Many RedNote users have embraced the cultural exchange between American and Chinese users, viewing the app as an opportunity to connect with others through its commenting feature. Source: X

With TikTok’s sudden return after its temporary ban on Saturday (that involved Trump delaying the ban in hopes that TikTok finds an American buyer), there’s still much speculation over TikTok’s future, and whether RedNote will remain popular with American users.

Since there’s so much uncertainty, it’s a fitting time to take stock of which social platforms best align with your business’ target audience, values, and brand personality. Whether your future involves TikTok or RedNote, it’s best to choose a platform that makes it easiest for you to reach out and connect with your desired audiences.

Written by:

Holly Choules Writer

Holly Choules is a Writer at Website Builder Expert with a background in researching and crafting engaging content for digital platforms. In previous roles, she has demonstrated her wordsmith skills by writing for public facing brands in a range of industries. After gaining hands-on experience using leading website builders, like Wix and WordPress, she is now keen to share her findings through informative, easy-to-follow articles that help small business owners get online and grow their presence. Since joining the team in 2024 and transitioning into the tech sphere, Holly is passionate about applying her three years of content writing experience and upholding Website Builder Expert’s position as an authoritative source on website builders, ecommerce, and digital marketing.