TikTok Clone Surges in Popularity

Summary

• The potential US ban on TikTok has significantly boosted the popularity of the Chinese social media app Rednote, positioning it as a leading alternative.
• Rednote combines features from Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok, and is valued at $17 billion, with support from Chinese tech giants Alibaba and Tencent.
• As TikTok faces possible closure, its content creators and users are flocking to Rednote, which has surged to the top of the US App Store charts.

As the specter of a TikTok ban looms over the United States, a new contender has emerged to fill the void left by the beleaguered short-form video app. Rednote, a Chinese social media platform, is experiencing a massive surge in popularity as users and content creators seek a viable alternative.

Throughout 2024, TikTok has been embroiled in legal battles, culminating in a ban bill passed by the House of Representatives in March. This was followed by a lawsuit from the Department of Justice and 13 states in October 2024, citing national security concerns linked to TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, based in Beijing. Unless the Supreme Court steps in, TikTok is set to be removed from Apple and Google app stores starting January 19, 2025, with the company indicating its readiness to cease operations if necessary.

The uncertainty surrounding TikTok's future has driven US users and content creators to explore other platforms, with Rednote emerging as the top choice. Known as Xiaohongshu (XHS) in China, Rednote blends elements from Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok. Initially launched in 2013 as a platform for product reviews and retail experiences, it has evolved into a major hub for Chinese influencers, particularly in the beauty and health sectors. Notably, over 70% of its user base comprises women. Valued at $17 billion as of July 2024, Rednote is backed by Chinese tech giants Tencent and Alibaba.

Chinese Social Media App Rednote May Be First in Line for TikTok's Throne

Rednote's interface, reminiscent of TikTok and Pinterest, has propelled it to the top of the US App Store charts. As of January 13, it has become the most downloaded app in the US, surpassing other popular platforms like Lemon8, ChatGPT, and Threads. TikTok creators are rapidly establishing their presence on Rednote, and videos discussing its rise are going viral across TikTok and other social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram. Interestingly, Chinese users on Rednote are welcoming the sudden influx of American users.

The irony is palpable: as TikTok faces expulsion from the US due to its Chinese ownership, its most likely successor is another Chinese app. The coming days will reveal whether Rednote can maintain its newfound popularity, especially as TikTok's fate hangs in the balance. If TikTok is indeed removed from US app stores, Rednote could see an even greater surge in new users.