A TikTok Clone is Skyrocketing in Popularity

Summary

• Rednote, a Chinese social media app blending Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok features, is experiencing a surge in popularity in the US, fueled by the potential ban of 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 US ban of TikTok has created a vacuum in the social media landscape, one that Chinese app Rednote is rapidly filling. Facing legal challenges throughout 2024, including a House-passed ban bill and lawsuits from the Department of Justice and multiple states, TikTok's future in the US is precarious. A January 19, 2025 removal from app stores is anticipated unless the Supreme Court intervenes.

This looming ban has triggered a search for alternatives, with Rednote (known as Xiaohongshu or XHS in China) emerging as a leading contender. Described as a hybrid of Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok, Rednote, founded in 2013, initially focused on product reviews before evolving into a significant platform for Chinese beauty and health influencers. Its user base is predominantly female (over 70%), and it commands a $17 billion valuation (as of July 2024) thanks to investments from Tencent and Alibaba.

Rednote's meteoric rise in the US App Store is undeniable. Its user-friendly interface, similar to TikTok and Pinterest, has propelled it past competitors like Lemon8, ChatGPT, and Threads, securing the top spot as of January 13th. A significant influx of TikTok creators is establishing a strong presence on the platform, further driving its popularity. The irony isn't lost on anyone: TikTok's potential demise due to its Chinese ownership might lead to the ascension of another Chinese app.

Rednote's sustained popularity remains to be seen, particularly in the coming days as TikTok's fate is decided. However, a complete US ban could result in an even greater influx of users, solidifying Rednote's position as a major player in the American social media market.