Xiaohongshu, also known as RedNote is the new TikTok alternative taking the world by storm

Xiaohongshu, also known as RedNote, a Chinese social media app that has long been a favourite among Mandarin-speaking users, is now rapidly gaining popularity in the United States.

Since Tuesday 17, the app has officially clinched the title of the most downloaded free app on the Apple App Store, making it one of the most talked about platforms in the social media landscape.

The app, which allows users to share short videos and text-based posts, has become a cultural hub, offering a mix of TikTok-like short-form content, but with an added twist.

Long, Reddit-style comment threads have begun to dominate the platform’s content, drawing comparisons to popular Western apps. Xiaohongshu’s proprietary algorithm keeps users engaged, enabling endless scrolling that has turned the app into a go-to platform for users seeking fresh, engaging content.

With its growing global reach, Xiaohongshu is attracting attention beyond its core Mandarin-speaking audience. The app’s developers are actively seeking English-speaking talent to meet the demands of its expanding user base. This expansion is especially notable as users from platforms like TikTok have begun to make the switch, opting for the fresh appeal that Xiaohongshu offers.

“We are seeing an influx of international users, particularly from the US, who are looking for something different from the mainstream apps they’re used to,” said Li Wei, a representative for Xiaohongshu. “This is an exciting time for the platform, and we’re committed to providing content that appeals to a global audience.”

On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), users have been quick to share their thoughts on the app. Many are amused by the cultural exchange happening between Chinese and American users, with some highlighting moments of humour.

One user, @raewolff_, shared, “One of my favourite things on RedNote so far is the Chinese also making fun of how Brits say ‘bottle of water.’”

Similarly, @chvseem expressed their enjoyment, saying simply, “RedNote is funny.”

Meanwhile, @YourAnonCentral posted an image that captured the playful nature of the platform, writing, “RedNote Chinese netizens posting this image at TikTok US netizens today.”

There is also a growing sense of connection between the two cultures. @pocemon111 remarked, “Americans realizing Chinese folks aren’t all spies and Chinese people realizing not all Americans are evil warms my heart.” It’s a refreshing reminder of the positive potential for cross-cultural dialogue in today’s social media landscape.

However, not all reactions have been entirely positive. A few users on X voiced their displeasure over the influx of new international users. One user, @WuWei113, was particularly outspoken, saying, “All white people. Stop using RedNote. You bring pervert and slut behaviour to RedNote. No good.”

On the other hand, @thinking_panda expressed curiosity about the ongoing cultural exchange, tweeting, “Chinese people asked a simple question to Americans on #RedNote,” suggesting an openness to dialogue amidst the growing community of diverse users.