TikTok creators seek refuge in China’s RedNote amid US ban threat

Xiaohongshu, or RedNote, has become the top choice for creators seeking alternatives to TikTok as a US ban looms. The Chinese app, known as Xiaohongshu in its home country, recently climbed to the top spot on Apple’s app store in the United States.

TikTok faces potential prohibition on 19 January due to security concerns, prompting creators to explore new platforms. Many are turning to RedNote, dubbing themselves “TikTok refugees” as they search for a new digital home.

RedNote, launched in 2013 in Shanghai, offers a layout akin to Instagram and Pinterest, catering to users interested in topics like fashion, climbing, and books. With 300 million monthly active users—80 per cent of whom are women—it also integrates social shopping features that rival Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba.

A TikTok creator known as ‘allieusyaps’ expressed hope despite the uncertainty. “It’s OK if TikTok is banned; we’re not going back to Instagram or Facebook. Let’s learn Mandarin, baby!”

RedNote’s rise comes as creators shy away from Meta’s platforms, which include Instagram and Facebook. Meta’s recent decision to reduce content moderation has sparked concerns over misinformation and hate speech.

Other platforms, like Lemon8—a ByteDance creation similar to TikTok—are also gaining traction. However, Lemon8 could face similar risks as TikTok, with ByteDance pressured by the Biden administration to divest its US operations or face a ban.

The Supreme Court is set to rule on the law’s future on 19 January, leaving creators and platforms uncertain about what comes next.