A TikTok Clone is Skyrocketing in Popularity

Summary

• Rednote, a Chinese social media app, is experiencing a dramatic surge in popularity in the US, potentially replacing TikTok if the latter is banned.
• Combining features reminiscent of Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok, Rednote boasts a $17 billion valuation, backed by tech giants Alibaba and Tencent.
• A mass migration of former TikTok users and creators is driving Rednote's ascension to the top of the US App Store charts.

The potential US ban of TikTok has propelled Rednote, a Chinese social media platform, into the spotlight as a leading alternative. Following legal battles throughout 2024, including a House-passed ban bill in March and a Department of Justice lawsuit in October, TikTok faces removal from US app stores on January 19, 2025, unless the Supreme Court intervenes. This looming ban has created a vacuum, with US users and creators actively seeking replacements.

Rednote, known as Xiaohongshu (XHS) in China, presents itself as a blend of Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok's functionalities. Initially launched in 2013 as a product review platform, it evolved into a significant influencer hub, particularly popular among women (over 70% of its user base). Its $17 billion valuation (July 2024) reflects the backing of major Chinese tech players, Tencent and Alibaba.

Rednote's rapid ascent to the top of the US App Store charts is undeniable. Its user-friendly interface, similar to TikTok and Pinterest, has attracted a significant influx of former TikTok creators, surpassing competitors like Lemon8, ChatGPT, and Threads. This influx is generating viral content across various platforms, including TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram, with even Chinese Rednote users welcoming the new 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 beyond the immediate aftermath of the potential TikTok ban remains to be seen. However, a complete TikTok removal from US app stores would likely further solidify Rednote's position and user base.