Amid a looming US ban, RedNote sees new American users grappling with language barriers and China’s strict controls. ByteDance expands AI might with a massive new data center. Trump and Musk square off over TikTok’s fate, as lawyers warn a forced sale could entirely plunge the app into darkness.
Some American TikTok users, facing a looming US ban unless TikTok is sold to a non-Chinese buyer, have flocked to RedNote (Xiaohongshu) in protest. However, analysts warn this surge may be temporary due to language barriers, differing content regulations, and China’s stringent internet controls, which could frustrate newcomers. Paul Triolo of Albright Stonebridge Group points out that RedNote currently lacks an English interface or robust translation features, making it less viable over the long term.
Meanwhile, many mainland users in recent days have posted videos for new American users, encouraging them to stay with the platform long term and offering tips on how to make the most of it.
“It’s not always easy. We come from different places, different cultures and, yeah, there are policy issues too, but that’s exactly what makes it so exciting,” said Abe, a China-based RedNote user, in a video posted on Monday.
Meanwhile, Denis Simon of the Quincy Institute doubts that RedNote can replace TikTok, especially if its stricter rules clash with user expectations and free speech norms.
Meanwhile, ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, is making decisive moves in China’s burgeoning AI sector. It has committed 4.5 billion yuan (US$614 million) to build a massive computing centre in northern Shanxi province, aiming to fortify its data-processing capabilities. This new site will dramatically boost ByteDance’s capacity to support its AI services, such as Doubao, a ChatGPT-like platform with over 51 million users. Despite intensifying scrutiny of Chinese-owned apps abroad, ByteDance continues expanding aggressively, underscoring its confidence in an AI-focused approach that shows no signs of slowing.
Looking ahead, the unfolding legal battle over TikTok and the US government’s increased scrutiny of Chinese tech raises questions about shifting user bases. While Lemon8 or American platforms like Instagram might attract former TikTok users, ByteDance’s new data centre underscores its determination to remain a key AI player, regardless of overseas outcomes. Meanwhile, RedNote’s future hinges on whether it can adapt for Western users, a challenge underscored by one local influencer’s caution:
“Don’t say any s*** about our country. It’s the key to respect.”
Beijing may well need to modify regulations if RedNote hopes to flourish internationally.
Biden’s sweeping AI export curbs, unveiled just before he leaves office, split the global market into ‘tier-one’ allies with unrestrained access and adversaries facing strict embargoes. Tech giants warn of global disruption, while US officials claim it defends US leadership from China’s AI surge.
The fate of TikTok in the United States hangs in the balance as a forced divestiture deadline of January 19, 2025, approaches under a law passed last April with bipartisan support. At issue is whether ByteDance can be forced to sell its U.S. operations over national security concerns.
During oral arguments, the justices questioned whether banning TikTok violates free speech or legitimately addresses potential foreign meddling. TikTok insists no covert data misuse exists, while Congress highlights Chinese ties and national security concerns.
Christopher Wray resigns as FBI Director, signaling a shift under Trump. With Kash Patel as a potential successor, concerns grow over the FBI's independence and its impact on cybersecurity, financial crimes, and corporate governance.
