The Chinese social media app RedNote has gained attention after over half a million TikTok users joined the platform in protest against a potential ban on TikTok in the United States. Known as “Xiaohongshu” in China, it’s a popular lifestyle app where users share their lives and recommendations.
Here are some details about the app:
WHAT IS THIS APP?
RedNote is often seen as a localized version of Instagram in China. Its name, Xiaohongshu, translates to “Little Red Book,” a term historically associated with sayings from Chinese Communist leader Mao Zedong. Today, it serves as a primary search engine in China for lifestyle recommendations, with popular topics including beauty, fashion, travel, and food. The app’s user base is predominantly young and female.
Unlike TikTok or Instagram, RedNote’s interface allows for multiple posts—videos, photos, or longer texts—to be displayed at once. Users can interact, share posts, make calls, and purchase products. Recently, the platform has focused on livestreaming sales. As of 2023, it boasts over 300 million monthly active users, according to Chinese media.
WHO OWNS REDNOTE?
RedNote was co-founded in 2013 in Shanghai by Miranda Qu, the current president, and Charlwin Mao, the CEO. Initially named “Hong Kong Shopping Guide,” it aimed at Chinese tourists seeking recommendations abroad. RedNote is considered a potential candidate for an IPO, with shareholders including major Chinese tech companies like Alibaba and Tencent, as well as Singapore’s state investor Temasek and various venture capital firms.
Mao’s personal wealth is estimated at around 18 billion yuan ($2.5 billion).
Reuters
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