Big Take

Americans Flocked to RedNote as the TikTok Ban Loomed. Will the Party Last?

7 snips
Jan 21, 2025
Gao Yuan, a Bloomberg technology reporter in Singapore, discusses the recent surge of U.S. TikTok users moving to Xiaohongshu (RedNote) amid fears of a ban. He highlights the current, friendly interactions between American and Chinese users on the platform. The conversation delves into potential cultural exchanges, the challenges of navigating a new digital landscape, and concerns over data security and censorship from the Chinese government. Listeners are left wondering if this cultural bridge can withstand political pressures.
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ANECDOTE

Brecken's Xiaohongshu Experience

  • Brecken Newman, a realtor, joined Xiaohongshu after seeing recommendations on TikTok.
  • He posted a picture of his daughter, which led to interactions with a family in Shanghai and went viral on X.
INSIGHT

Data Privacy vs. Connection

  • American users are less concerned about data privacy on Xiaohongshu than the government.
  • They prioritize connection and cultural exchange over data security concerns.
ANECDOTE

Navigating Censorship and Connecting

  • Brecken learned about Chinese censorship through other users on the app.
  • He respects the cultural differences and downloaded WeChat to maintain communication if Xiaohongshu faces restrictions.
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