TikTok Rival Soars in Popularity

Summary

• Rednote, a Chinese social media app blending features of Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok, is experiencing a surge in popularity in the US, potentially replacing TikTok.
• Backed by Alibaba and Tencent, Rednote boasts a $17 billion valuation and is currently the top app on the US App Store.
• A mass migration of former TikTok users and creators is fueling Rednote's rapid growth.

The potential US ban of TikTok has propelled Rednote, a Chinese social media platform, to unprecedented popularity as a viable alternative. Facing legal challenges throughout 2024, including a House-passed ban bill and lawsuits, TikTok's future in the US is uncertain. Scheduled removal from app stores on January 19, 2025, unless the Supreme Court intervenes, has spurred a user exodus to competing platforms.

Rednote, known as Xiaohongshu (XHS) in China, 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). With a $17 billion valuation (July 2024) and backing from Tencent and Alibaba, Rednote is well-positioned for expansion.

Rednote's ascendance in the US App Store is undeniable. Its user-friendly interface, similar to TikTok and Pinterest, has propelled it to the top of the charts, surpassing competitors like Lemon8, ChatGPT, and Threads. The influx of American users, including many former TikTok creators, is significant, with videos documenting this shift going viral across various platforms. Interestingly, Chinese Rednote users are welcoming this new wave of American users.

The irony of TikTok's potential demise due to its Chinese ownership, only to be potentially replaced by another Chinese app, is not lost on observers. Rednote's sustained popularity remains to be seen, particularly in the days leading up to the anticipated TikTok ban. A complete TikTok removal from US app stores could further solidify Rednote's position and attract even more users.