TikTok Rival Soars in Popularity

Summary

• Rednote, a Chinese social media app blending Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok features, is experiencing a surge in popularity due to the potential US ban on TikTok.
• Backed by tech giants Alibaba and Tencent, Rednote boasts a $17 billion valuation.
• A mass migration of TikTok creators and users to Rednote has propelled it to the top of the US App Store charts.

The potential demise of TikTok in the US is fueling the meteoric rise of Rednote, a Chinese social media platform. Following legal battles throughout 2024, including a House-passed ban bill and lawsuits, TikTok faces removal from US app stores on January 19, 2025, unless the Supreme Court intervenes. This looming ban has spurred US users and creators to seek alternatives, with Rednote emerging as a leading contender.

Initially launched in 2013 as a product review platform, Rednote (Xiaohongshu or XHS in China) evolved into a significant influencer hub, particularly popular among women (over 70% of its user base). Its blend of Instagram's visual appeal, Pinterest's organizational features, and TikTok's short-form video format has proven highly attractive. The app, valued at $17 billion (July 2024), enjoys significant backing from Tencent and Alibaba.

Rednote's Ascent to the Top of the US App Store

Rednote's user-friendly interface, mirroring elements of TikTok and Pinterest, has propelled it to the top of the US App Store charts, surpassing apps like Lemon8, ChatGPT, and Threads. As of January 13th, it's the most downloaded app in the US, attracting a significant influx of former TikTok creators establishing their presence. The app's rapid rise is itself generating viral content on platforms like TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram, with even Chinese Rednote users welcoming the new American users.

The irony of TikTok's potential replacement by another Chinese app isn't lost on observers. Rednote's sustained popularity beyond the immediate aftermath of the TikTok ban remains to be seen. However, a complete TikTok removal from US app stores could further amplify Rednote's user growth.