Nuked Hey there, tech enthusiasts! It’s your buddy Nuked here, ready to dive into the latest buzz about social media. Grab your virtual surfboards because we’re riding the wave of TikTokers flocking to a new platform called RedNote!
Instead of sulking over the possibility of losing access to TikTok, many users are making a beeline for RedNote, also known as Xiaohongshu. I decided to check it out myself, and let me tell you, these so-called “TikTok refugees” are thrilled to connect with a community that primarily speaks Chinese—and the feeling is mutual!
Originally launched in 2013 as a shopping platform, RedNote has transformed into one of China’s trendiest social apps. It offers a delightful mix of photos, videos, and written content. Recently, it’s experienced a surge of new users from outside China, with reports indicating over 700,000 people joined in just two days. While that sounds impressive, it’s still just a tiny drop in the ocean compared to TikTok’s 150 million American users reported earlier this year.
As CNN points out, Xiaohongshu translates to “little red book,” which some see as a cheeky nod to Mao Zedong’s famous red-covered book of quotes. Many U.S. users appear to be jumping onto this platform partly out of defiance against the U.S. government’s potential TikTok ban—though they’re keeping things lighthearted. Amidst all the Chinese-language posts showcasing stylish outfits, delicious food videos, and memes that are still puzzling me, TikTok expats are sharing their experiences. Some jokingly ponder what local users might think about this sudden influx of Americans.
Interestingly, RedNote users are welcoming these newcomers with open arms! Many are eager to introduce the app and share tips on how to navigate it effectively. One user even mentioned that with the Chinese New Year around the corner, it’s an ideal time to explore Chinese culture through RedNote. They also noted that users on the platform have an obsession with characters like Luigi and trends like Squid Game!
Curiosity flows both ways; TikTokers are just as interested in what life is like for RedNote users in China. One user even asked for pictures of meals or snacks, expressing curiosity about typical Chinese cuisine. Another chimed in with a friendly inquiry about whether Chinese users like Americans—because who doesn’t want more friends?
This whole trend feels surprisingly wholesome, and I’m all for it! However, I do wonder how long this will last. If these apps continue gaining popularity, they could face bans too. For now, though, this migration to RedNote seems like a fun trend—but remember, trends come and go faster than a cat video on TikTok!
