TikTok is facing restrictions in various regions, and due to that, many users are turning to alternative social media platforms. RedNote (also known as Xiaohongshu) is one of the popular choices, as it is a platform combining short-form videos, lifestyle content, and e-commerce. This app is available on both iOS and Android. If you’re new to RedNote and ready to explore its unique features, this guide will guide you through setting up an account on your smartphone.

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What is RedNote (Xiaohongshu)?
RedNote, also known as Xiaohongshu, is a rapidly growing social media and e-commerce platform originating from China. Unlike platforms solely focused on short-form videos like TikTok, RedNote offers a unique blend of features, combining aspects of Instagram, Pinterest, and even Amazon.
Users can share photos and videos, write detailed reviews and recommendations (often about products or experiences), and discover content from others based on their interests.
RedNote’s content ranges from fashion and beauty tips to travel guides, food recommendations, and everyday life experiences. The platform’s focus on user-generated content and authentic reviews has contributed to its popularity, particularly among young people.
The integration of e-commerce features allows users to directly purchase products featured in posts, unlike Instagram, where users are directed to a different platform. This unique combination is what sets RedNote apart from other social media platforms.



There is also an option to change the language in the RedNote app to English if you don’t know Chinese or Mandarin.
How to Set Up a RedNote Account on iOS
Creating a RedNote account is easy. While you can use the app to watch short videos without signing up, you’ll need to create an account to access all its features.
- Open the App Store on your iPhone and search for RedNote or Xiaohongshu.
- Download and install the app.
- Open the RedNote app. Tap the Log In button on the screen.
- Choose your login method. You can log in with your phone number or Apple ID.
- If you choose to sign up with your phone number, enter it in the provided field, making sure to select the correct country code.
- RedNote will send a verification code to your phone number via SMS. Enter this code in the app to verify your number.
- After verification, you can create your profile.


Once you log in, you can also set up a password for logging in to your account. Here’s how:
- Tap on Me with a profile icon in the bottom right corner.
- Tap the Settings icon right next to the Edit Profile option.
- Choose Account Security.
- You will get the option to set up a password.



How to Set Up a RedNote Account on Android
- Open the Google Play Store on your Android device and search for RedNote or Xiaohongshu.
- Download and install the app.
- Launch the RedNote app. Look for the Login button on the welcome screen and tap it.
- Choose your login method. You can sign up with your phone number or your Google Account.
- If using your phone number, enter it, ensuring the correct country code is selected.
- A verification code will be sent to your phone. Enter it in the app to complete verification.
- Set up your profile.

Optional: Sharing Age and Gender
After logging in, you might see a prompt asking for your age and gender. You can choose to keep this information private by declining it. To skip this step:
- Tap the three dots in the top right corner of the screen.
- Select the option to decline sharing your information.
- You can always update your profile and add this information later if you’d like.


Important Notes
- Country Code: Double-check that you’ve selected the correct country code before entering your phone number.
- Verification Delays: Due to high traffic, there might be occasional delays in receiving the verification code. If you don’t receive it within a few minutes, try resending the code or checking your spam/junk folder.
- App Language: The app might initially appear in Chinese or Mandarin. Don’t worry! You can easily change the language in the app’s settings after creating your account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
RedNote is available in many countries through app stores. However, some regional restrictions might apply. If you encounter issues downloading or accessing the app, you may need to try alternative methods, like using a VPN or changing your app store region (though this is not generally recommended).
Yes, RedNote (Xiaohongshu) is developed by Xiaohongshu Company (Xingin Information Technology Co., Ltd.), headquartered in Shanghai, China.
Like any social media platform, it’s important to exercise caution when using RedNote. Forbes recently did an article on the app’s privacy policy and found it does collect a lot of personal information, so be wary of that.
While both platforms feature short-form videos, RedNote also includes elements of Instagram and Pinterest. RedNote places a stronger emphasis on product reviews, lifestyle content, and user-generated recommendations. It also has integrated e-commerce features, allowing users to purchase products directly within the app. TikTok is more focused on short, entertaining videos, often with trending sounds and challenges.
You can use the search bar at the top of the app to search for specific keywords, hashtags, or users. You can also browse content through different categories or explore the Explore page to discover trending topics and recommendations.