After the recent TikTok hearing, many U.S. users have begun assuming that a TikTok ban is inevitable, sparking a search for alternatives. Amid strong contenders like Meta, Threads, and ByteDance’s Lemon8, Rednote has surged to the top.
As of January 13, Rednote ranks second on the U.S. App Store's overall free apps list and first in social apps, with users dubbing it the "Real Chinese TikTok."
Amazingly, there was no major campaign or advertising behind this shift. It’s a wave driven entirely by TikTok influencers migrating voluntarily.
How Did This Trend Begin?
The shift started as a joke among American TikTok users, who, following media reports about TikTok being a "Chinese spy app," began poking fun with meme like:
"Me and my Chinese spy at 11:59 on the 18th."
"When I log into YouTube Shorts on the 20th, my mind will be filled with the happy times I shared with my Chinese spy."
TikTokers were quick to react with comments like:
- "Don’t worry, we’ll meet our new spies on Rednote."
- "So I just agreed to grant Rednote all permissions."
- "To my Chinese spy: if I give you more data, will you stay with me?"
This blend of humor and fear of losing TikTok quickly went viral, and we once again witnessed meme change the world.
Why Is Rednote the Winner in the TikTok Ban Drama?
Rednote has already gained popularity overseas in 2024. Its warm, community-driven environment has attracted many foreign users, who were amazed by the platform’s friendly, high-emotional-value content.
Unlike other Chinese apps, TikTok's Chinese version (Douyin) can be downloaded in the U.S. but doesn’t allow comments or interaction. ByteDance’s Lemon8 still faces the risk of association with TikTok. And most American social platforms, like Meta, are seen as working against TikTok creators.
This is a matter of narrative economics. TikTok users’ main frustration is with Big Tech’s monopoly, which favors established creators and brands while limiting ordinary creators' opportunities. Rednote, a relatively small Chinese app, has less commercialization and ad clutter, making it feel like a fresh alternative.
For a deeper dive into the topic, check out the article "The TikTok Ban Isn’t About Privacy — It’s Big Tech’s Power Grab." Below is an excerpt:
"The alternatives controlled by Big Tech don’t offer the same opportunities."
"Reels and Shorts are algorithmically biased toward established influencers and brands. Ordinary creators won’t get the same reach or organic growth they enjoyed on TikTok."
"Consider this: a creator on TikTok can go from zero to a million followers in a matter of weeks if their content resonates."
"That kind of rapid growth is virtually impossible on platforms like Instagram, where algorithms heavily favor accounts with existing clout. The playing field isn’t just uneven — it’s rigged."
"Why Rednote Could Be the Next Big Thing？
Fair Algorithm: One of TikTok’s biggest strengths was its algorithm, which prioritized engagement over follow counts. Rednote seems to follow the same philosophy, giving new creators a chance to shine.
Creator-Friendly Features: Rednote offers tools that empower creators, from intuitive video editing to built-in monetization options.
Untapped Potential: With TikTok facing a potential ban, Rednote could fill the void and attract millions of displaced users."
"Less Corporate Interference: Unlike platforms owned by Big Tech giants, Rednote isn’t beholden to Wall Street. That means fewer ads, less intrusive monetization tactics, and a focus on user experience."
"Early adopters often reap the most rewards on social platforms. Remember when Instagram influencers were a new thing? The people who got in early built massive followings and businesses. Rednote offers that kind of opportunity right now."
A special thank you to the translator, Kimi.
Is Rednote Ready for This?
How can you follow foreign friends on Rednote? Search for the keyword TikTokrefugee to let big data remember you.
Although the surge has just begun, some issues have already emerged.
On the App Store, there are quite a few negative reviews of Rednote, mainly from foreign users dissatisfied with its content review system, particularly regarding political topics. We won’t delve into that here.
Another obstacle is the platform’s strict aesthetic guidelines. What foreign models consider normal in their displays often gets flagged for borderline violations:
A concerned netizen humorously commented, "Maybe just wear some clothes, and it will be fine."
Looking back from the future, the challenge for Rednote — and for all of us — will always be how to connect with the world.
How can we embrace different cultures, religions, viewpoints, and aesthetics?
This is not only Rednote’s current challenge but a task left for each of us. However, the most pressing issue for Rednote right now is probably launching a built-in translation feature. XieXie.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/goodsfox-helper-365450282/
