TikTok users in the United States are increasingly turning to a Chinese app called RedNote as concerns over a potential TikTok ban intensify. Dubbed “TikTok refugees” by many users, the shift has propelled RedNote to the top of Apple’s US App Store downloads.

RedNote, which boasts approximately 300 million monthly users, has gained popularity within Mandarin-speaking communities in China, Taiwan, and beyond. The app combines elements from both TikTok and Instagram, primarily attracting young urban women who share lifestyle tips ranging from fashion to dating.

With a looming deadline of January 19 for TikTok to either divest its US operations or face a ban, the Supreme Court is expected to rule on this matter soon. TikTok has firmly resisted the idea of selling its US arm, arguing that a ban would infringe upon the free speech rights of its 170 million American users.

In light of this uncertainty, RedNote has clearly welcomed its new American audience. The platform features over 63,000 posts labeled “TikTok refugees,” where users are sharing tips on how to utilize the app and communicate in basic Chinese. One new user humorously acknowledged the potential chaos their arrival could create, expressing gratitude to their Chinese hosts.

However, the app is not without its controversies; there are accounts of censorship regarding critiques of the Chinese government. In Taiwan, specific regulations prevent public officials from using RedNote due to alleged safety concerns surrounding Chinese technology.

As US users flock to RedNote, some Chinese users jokingly refer to themselves as “Chinese spies,” hinting at US security fears that TikTok may be used for surveillance or political influence. The app’s Chinese name, Xiaohongshu, translates to “Little Red Book,” although the developers assert that it is not an allusion to Mao Zedong’s famous work.

Despite security worries, the migration of users to RedNote seems resilient. For instance, Sarah Fotheringham, a 37-year-old canteen worker from Utah, described her switch to RedNote as a way to defy government restrictions. She added that she finds value in connecting with Chinese culture and people through the app.

Many users are quickly building decent followings on this new platform. Sydney Crawley, a tech worker from Tennessee, gained over 6,000 followers within just 24 hours of joining RedNote. She expressed her excitement about continuing to develop her presence there, no matter the fate of TikTok.

Overall, the influx of users from TikTok suggests a changing landscape in social media preferences, where platforms that embrace a sense of community and cultural exchange can flourish. As RedNote continues to attract users looking for alternatives, it could pave the way for new social connections and creative expressions, fostering a more diverse digital environment.

As discussions about the viability of TikTok in the US continue, many users remain optimistic about the potential for meaningful engagement and cultural exploration on RedNote.