How To Use RedNote? A Comprehensive Guide for TikTok Refugees

As TikTok faces potential bans and restrictions, many content creators and users- self-proclaimed "TikTok refugees"-seek alternative platforms and flock to China's social media app RedNote (小红书). If you're new to RedNote, navigating a pure Chinese platform might feel overwhelming. This tutorial will walk you through everything you need to know to get started. Whether you're a TikTok refugee seeking a new creative outlet or simply curious about the latest social media trends, you're in the right place.

Part 1: The Differences Between RedNote and TikTok

First, it's important to note that RedNote (小红书) is not a direct counterpart to TikTok. Douyin—the Chinese version of TikTok—is its true "twin." However, just as TikTok is unavailable in China, Douyin presents challenges for international users, as it requires a Chinese phone number to create an account.

Instead of focusing on short videos, RedNote revolves around sharing photos, short videos, and written posts, creating a more "quiet" and reflective space compared to the fast-paced, video-driven nature of TikTok. From a functional perspective, TikTok is primarily focused on entertainment. In contrast, for Chinese users, RedNote offers much more than just entertainment - it can also serve as a search engine, a Q&A platform, and even a learning tool.

Part 2: How to Download the RedNote App

Downloading RedNote is quick and hassle-free. just like installing any other app. Here's how to get started:

For Android Users:

1. Open the Google Play Store on your device.

2. Type "Xiaohongshu" or "RedNote" into the search bar.

3. Find the official app and tap Install to download and install it.

For iOS Users:

1. Open the App Store on your device.

2. Search for "Xiaohongshu" or "RedNote."

3. Select the official app, tap Download, and wait for the installation to complete.

Using RedNote on the Web: 

If you prefer using RedNote on a computer, the platform is also accessible online. Simply visit their official website at https://www.xiaohongshu.com.

Part 3: How to Create a RedNote Account

Creating a RedNote account is simple. Follow these steps to get started

Step 1: Launch the App

Open RedNote and select your preferred sign-up method - either with an email address, a phone number, or an Apple ID.

Note: Even if it allows you to sign up with an email address, if you want to comment, you still need to bind your mobile phone number.

Step 2: Verify Your Number (if applicable)

If you choose to sign up using your phone number, select the appropriate country code to ensure proper verification.

Step 3: Complete Verification

Solve the CAPTCHA to confirm you're human, then enter the verification code sent to your email or phone.

Step 4: Personalize Your Experience

During the onboarding process, select your interests to allow the app to recommend content tailored to you.

Step 5: Build Your Profile

Add a profile picture and a short bio to complete your setup and start exploring the platform!

Part 4: How to Use RedNote in English?

Language might be the biggest barrier to using RedNote. Switching RedNote's language to English can make navigating the app much easier, especially if you're not familiar with Mandarin.

Step 1: Tap the gear icon on your profile page to the settings menu.

Step 2: Look for the option labeled General Settings (you might see it written as "通用设置" if your app is still in Chinese).

Step 3: Tap Languages (or "多语言" if it's still in Chinese). From the list of available languages, select English. Return to the main screen, and you'll notice most of the interface has now switched to English.

While changing the language in RedNote adjusts most of the app's interface, user-generated posts remain in Chinese, and unfortunately, there's no built-in translation feature for these.

However, RedNote also offers a web version that provides an experience almost identical to the mobile app. You can log in by scanning the QR code with the app, allowing you to browse, search, and post content without downloading anything.

To translate Chinese notes on the web version, you can use a browser extension like DeepL. Just highlight the text, and the extension will translate it for you.

The Chinese language is complex, and their internet slang can be highly abstract. Even with tools like Google or DeepL Translate, it can still be challenging to accurately translate the information into English.

Part 5: Overcoming Common Challenges on RedNote

1. RedNote not sending verification code?

If you're experiencing issues with RedNote not sending a verification code, you're not alone. Many users have reported similar problems, especially during periods of high traffic. Here are some steps you can take to resolve this issue:

(1) If the servers are overloaded, wait a few minutes and request the code again. Avoid requesting the code multiple times in a short period. This can trigger a daily limit and delay the process further.

(2) Double-check your phone number and the country code.

(3) The phone number verification might have crashed. Give it a few days to fix.

2. My country code is not in XiaoHongShu, what do I do?

RedNote is primarily designed for Chinese users, and before the influx of TikTok refugees, there were only a few international users. As a result, not all country codes are supported for registration. If your country code isn't available, here are your options:

Register with an Email: You can sign up using your email address. Please note that even if you manage to sign up using an email, RedNote will still require a valid phone number for verification if you want to comment on or like posts.

Use a Supported Phone Number: If possible, register with a phone number from a supported region.

Wait for Updates: If neither of these options works, you may need to wait and see if RedNote expands its support for more country codes in the future.

Final Thoughts

The sudden influx of TikTok refugees into RedNote was an unexpected and surprising event. It's unclear whether people will stick with the platform after the hype dies down. RedNote might follow TikTok and Douyin's lead by separating Chinese and international users, or TikTok could avoid being banned altogether.

Regardless of what happens, this event has been groundbreaking. For the first time, the digital wall was breached, allowing direct communication and cultural exchange between Chinese and international users. It also helped challenge and dismantle many stereotypes perpetuated by the media. Anyway, By following this guide, you've learned how to use RedNote effectively. Now it's time to dive in, share your passions, and connect with a vibrant community. 

Bonus: Buy Social Media Account on Accountboy

AccountBoy is a leading social media marketplace offering a wide range of services across various platforms. Their offerings include Apple accounts, aged Facebook accounts, Telegram accounts, AI tools, and game accounts. Every account is carefully vetted for safety and quality, and the platform is backed by reliable customer support to ensure a seamless experience.