As the U.S. faces the possibility of a TikTok ban, many users are migrating to RedNote, a Chinese app also known as Xiaohongshu or “Little Red Book.” While it offers unique features, the platform comes with restrictions that have sparked controversy among its growing user base.
RedNote is a short-form video platform that integrates e-commerce, enabling users to shop and review products. In China, it serves as an alternative to TikTok, with content tailored to lifestyle trends, fashion, and shopping. Recently, RedNote surged to the top of U.S. app store charts as TikTok users look for alternatives ahead of a potential nationwide ban.
The U.S. government has cited national security concerns over TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, based in China. A law passed by Congress requires ByteDance to sell TikTok’s U.S. operations by January 19 or face a ban. TikTok has argued that the ban would violate free speech protections, but unless the Supreme Court intervenes, the app’s U.S. operations are expected to shut down.
While lawmakers have claimed TikTok poses security risks, experts remain divided. A 2021 University of Toronto Citizen Lab study found TikTok’s data practices comparable to those of Facebook and Instagram. The CIA also reported no definitive evidence of Chinese authorities exploiting TikTok’s data.
For TikTok refugees, RedNote’s strict content moderation has been a significant adjustment. Reports have surfaced of users being banned or having content removed for minor infractions, such as wearing clothing deemed too revealing or discussing LGBTQ+ topics. One user reported being banned after posting a selfie showing slight cleavage, while another faced content removal for mentioning transgender rights. A Black creator shared that her photo was flagged simply because her shirt matched her skin tone.
These incidents highlight RedNote’s heavy censorship policies, which align with broader Chinese regulations on online content. LGBTQ+ topics and criticism of government policies are particularly sensitive areas, adding layers of complexity for users accustomed to TikTok’s relatively open platform.
If TikTok is banned, users with the app already downloaded may continue using it temporarily, but updates and support will cease. ByteDance has signaled plans to shut down TikTok’s U.S. operations if the ban is enforced.
Meanwhile, RedNote’s popularity continues to grow despite its challenges. For users seeking a new platform, it offers opportunities for creativity and connection, albeit within a more constrained framework. “I love the community I’ve found on RedNote so far,” said one user, “but I’ll need to learn Mandarin!”As the digital landscape evolves, the debate over free speech, censorship, and data security remains central to the future of these platforms.
