is it really new TikTok?? 🧐
I’m sure we’ve all seen and heard about the upcoming ban on tiktok (which may or may not effect Lemon8 and CapCut??) and how it’s been sending folks into a panic about where they’ll move to. IG isn’t what it used to be, twitter was ruined, tumblr is apparently dead, and fb……. ugh. so where else are we supposed to get such a well curated fyp and sense of community?
Well, im so glad you asked. Many netizens have flocked to Rednote/Redbook (I’ve seen the names used interchangeably; unsure of which is correct) or Xianhongshu — China’s largest social network — partially out of pure spite, partially out of curiosity. Think of it as a mix of all the best parts of tiktok, Pinterest, ig, and twitter. I’ve spent the past ~16 hours exploring the app and even made a post. Here’s my experience:
PROS:
• PHENOMENAL algorithm
• all members are on an equal playing field; your posts will find your people regardless of follower count
• Chinese netizens have been SO friendly and welcoming, so long as we are friendly and respectful (literally all they ask of us is that we’re kind, follow the rules, and include translations in our posts/comments/captions for them)
CONS:
• few members have been behaving as gatekeepers and trying to ban foreigners, especially non-Asian POC (ironically yet unsurprisingly, those people have all been from the States)
• no translation button (YET) so you’ll have to copy-paste comments into your translator app as majority of users speak Mandarin Chinese; BUT the ceo has posted a video saying that they’re actively working on that given the sudden surge in American members
what are your thoughts? Will you be joining? HAVE you joined?
With TikTok facing potential bans, users are seeking new platforms for sharing and connection. Rednote, also known as Xianhongshu, stands out due to its unique combination of elements from popular social media apps. Users report a phenomenal algorithm that ensures content reaches the right audience, regardless of follower count, which promotes a level playing field. Additionally, the welcoming atmosphere created by Chinese netizens encourages users to engage respectfully and provide translations in their posts, fostering inclusivity. However, challenges remain. Some users have reported gatekeeping behaviors that discourage foreigners, especially non-Asian POCs, from fully integrating into the community. While language barriers persist due to the lack of an integrated translation feature, advancements are underway as the platform responds to the influx of American members. Users are optimistic about the future improvements, particularly as the app evolves to enhance international understanding. The community's expansion invites diverse perspectives, making it an exciting time for users seeking an alternative to TikTok, as they redefine their social media experience amidst change.
ok bet I was really nervous about starting over