RedNote Has Gone Viral! Here's Your Playbook for It and Guide to Other Chinese Apps

With the potential ban of TikTok in the US looming large, the digital landscape for American social media users is on the verge of a significant shift. This has led to a wave of curiosity and exploration, especially towards RedNote, a Chinese app that has rapidly gained prominence. Here, we'll delve into why TikTok is facing a ban, what RedNote is all about, why TikTok users are flocking to it, and most importantly, how to make the most of RedNote.

Why TikTok Is Being Banned

TikTok is under the threat of a ban in the US mainly due to concerns over user privacy and national security. As TikTok is owned by a Chinese parent company, ByteDance, if it refuses to sell TikTok to a US - based owner, the ban will likely be enforced. Once it takes effect, TikTok will be removed from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Although users who installed the app before the ban can still access it, they won't receive security updates, which may lead to the app's performance degradation over time.

What Is RedNote

RedNote (also known as Xiaohongshu, literally Little Red Book in English) was launched in 2013. Initially, it was designed as a shopping platform where users could share product reviews and experiences. 

It isn't a clone of TikTok. Instead, it's often regarded as the Chinese equivalent of Instagram, and some compare its layout to that of Pinterest. During the pandemic, RedNote saw a significant spike in its Chinese user base, similar to the growth trajectory of TikTok in the US. Later, it expanded its focus to short - form videos and live - streaming, positioning itself as an alternative to TikTok.

Why TikTok Users Are Flocking to RedNote

The influx of TikTok users to RedNote is, in part, a form of protest against the US ban. Although there are US - based alternatives like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts, which have introduced short - form video features, none of them have managed to replicate TikTok's influence in driving online culture and trends. Moreover, after Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's involvement in cultural wars and Meta's new moderation policies that allow the description of LGBTQ+ people as mentally ill, young and progressive users are less inclined to use Facebook and Instagram. Additionally, YouTube Shorts, while developing its own culture, is about to incorporate generative AI, which may result in a flood of low - quality content. Thus, RedNote has emerged as a favored choice for many TikTok users.

How to Use RedNote

Download the App

Downloading RedNote on your mobile device is straightforward. Head to the Apple App Store or Google Play. You can search for it using its English name REDNote. Once you find the app, click the download button.

Create an Account

After installing the app, you'll be prompted to create an account using either your email address or phone number. If using your phone number, make sure to specify your country to ensure the correct country code is included. Then, you'll receive a verification code to confirm your contact information, followed by a puzzle to verify you're not a robot. 

Next, you'll be asked to select your interests, which helps the app's algorithm recommend content tailored to you. Finally, set up your profile page, including writing a bio and uploading a profile photo. However, some users have reported issues receiving verification codes. According to some users, waiting for 10 - 30 minutes may solve the problem.

Set the Language to English

For English - speaking users, this step is crucial. On your profile page, tap the gear icon (next to the edit profile button), then tap languages and select English. This will translate part of the app into English, though some sections may still remain in Chinese. Given the large number of new users, it's likely that the app will soon have more comprehensive translation features. In the meantime, users can use their phone's translation tools to understand the Chinese content on the screen.

Engage Mindfully

Once your profile is set up, you can start using RedNote. You can watch videos, leave comments, or even post your own content. Keep in mind that as many US users are new to this app, there may be cultural differences to navigate. Be respectful and maintain an open - minded attitude while scrolling through the app.

Quick Glimpse at Similar Chinese and US Apps

Here's a quick look at some other Chinese apps that are similar to the ones you might be familiar with in the US. 

Just like RedNote offers an alternative experience, these apps can also help you navigate the Chinese digital landscape. From messaging with WeChat like WhatsApp, to navigating with AMAP similar to Google Map, and shopping on Pinduoduo akin to Temu, there's a whole world of Chinese apps waiting for you to explore. So, whether you're a TikTok refugee or just curious about Chinese apps, this little guide can be your starting point to discover new digital companions.