Can RedNote Go the Distance?
Although the Chinese app has been positioned as a TikTok-style platform — it even made our list of potential TikTok alternatives — some informed reports are calling it more of a cross between Instagram and Pinterest.
Whatever the case, it’s not clear that the rapid rise of this app can be sustained. Competitors like Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts are well-established, and are backed by tech giants Meta and Google, respectively. Meanwhile, RedNote is designed for Chinese users first, making it a tough sell.
Consider the success story of another primary-color-themed social media upstart: Bluesky has been growing steadily since gaining prominence way back in 2023, and despite the continual struggles of its main competitor, it still has a long way to go. In contrast, RedNote’s US presence is still a blip on the radar.
