New “El Dorado”: What Is the Rednote App and How to Use It?
Rednote is a Chinese app that has become a virtual “El Dorado” for Americans after the mass exodus from TikTok. Is this the new promised land or just another passing trend? We tested the app and bring you all the details.
As the saying goes: “Where everyone goes, little Johnny follows”… straight to Rednote!
Why Rednote Became Popular
When TikTok’s ban in America was officially “scheduled” for January 19 (until Trump played Uno Reverse), Americans wasted no time finding an alternative for self-promotion, following their favorite TikTokers, and exploring new entertainment.
Afraid of missing out as a social media enthusiast, I quickly installed Rednote and began testing. Here’s a deep dive into the app.
Registration: Easy and Intuitive
To register on Rednote, all you need is your phone number—no emails or passwords. Once logged in, personalizing your account is straightforward and user-friendly. You can add:
- A profile picture Cover photo (like on Facebook)
- Profile bio
- Location
- Username
- Content (videos, single photos, or carousels)
The app also supports an English version, albeit imperfect, making it easier for international users to navigate and interact.
Key Features of Rednote
Rednote is a mix of TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest—a digital “stew” that might take time to get used to.
Content
Content on Rednote is called “Notes.” For example, you “Post a Note,” and someone “Likes Your Note.”
Tabs
Followers: Shows posts from people you follow (similar to TikTok).
Explore: Discover new content and train the algorithm based on your preferences.
Nearby: A unique feature that displays posts from users near your current location.
Monetization on Rednote
While currently tailored for Chinese users, Rednote offers several monetization options:
- In-App Purchases: Virtual gifts sent during livestreams or as reactions to content can be converted into real money.
- Affiliate Marketing: Promote products directly in your posts or videos and earn commissions on sales.
- Subscriptions: Offer exclusive content to paying subscribers.
- Selling Products: Use the platform to promote and sell your own goods or services.
Posting and Editing Content
Rednote offers basic editing tools—filters, trimming, and text—but lacks advanced features seen on TikTok or Instagram. Music options are limited to free instrumentals, reminiscent of elevator tunes.
Pro tip: Use external apps like CapCut for more advanced editing.
Language Barriers
Although Rednote supports English, the majority of its content is in Chinese, making it challenging for newcomers (or “TikTok Refugees”) to feel at home. If you want to maximize your reach:
- Write captions and video text in Chinese.
- Comment and respond in Chinese.
Timing Is Key
To reach Chinese users from regions like Bosnia and Herzegovina, consider the time difference (CET to CST is +7 hours).
Optimal posting times in China (CST):
- Morning (7:00–9:00 CST): Equivalent to 00:00–02:00 CET.
- Lunch (12:00–14:00 CST): Equivalent to 5:00–7:00 CET.
- Evening Prime Time (19:00–22:00 CST): Equivalent to 12:00–15:00 CET.
Publishing during these times significantly increased my views—from 90 to over 900!
Hashtags
Precise hashtags improve discoverability. Rednote’s algorithm favors well-tagged content, so focus on relevant and popular hashtags to enhance your reach.
Final Thoughts
Rednote is an intriguing platform but requires patience to navigate its challenges, especially the dominance of Chinese content. However, its unique features and growing user base make it worth exploring.
If you’re ready for a new digital adventure, give Rednote a try—you might just find your niche in this virtual “El Dorado.”
Written by Vedrana Halic
