With TikTok’s restriction in the US, many content makers and social media fans (“tiktok refugees”) are switching to RedNote (also known as Xiaohongshu or 小红书). Whether you’re new to RedNote or want to enhance your experience, this comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know.
Download and Installation Guide
Let’s get started by downloading the app on your device. The steps differ significantly depending on whether you’re using iOS or Android.
For iOS Users
- Look for “Xiaohongshu” or “RedNote” on app store
- Search for the official app by Xingin Information Technology.
- Tap “Get” to download and install.
For Android Users
- Go to RedNote’s official website.
- Scan the QR code and download the APK file.
- Turn on “Install from Unknown Sources” in your settings.
- Go to Settings > Security
- Turn on “Unknown Sources” or “Install Unknown Apps”.
- Install the APK file.
- You can disable “Install from Unknown Sources” afterward.
Safety First: Download only from official sources to protect your device and data.
Register for a RedNote Account
Getting started with RedNote is simple, with three major registration options available.
By Email
- Launch RedNote
- Tap “Sign Up”
- Select email registration.
- Please enter your email address.
- Enter the verification code sent to your email.
- Create a password (at least 8 characters, including both letters and numbers).
- Fill out your basic profile information.
By Phone Number
- Launch RedNote
- Click “Sign Up”
- Provide your phone number.
- Input the SMS verification code
- Create your password
- Set up your profile
By Apple ID / Google ID (Recommended if you experience verification code issues)
- Choose the Apple ID registration option
- Enter your Apple ID credentials
- Complete the registration process
Pro tips: While Apple ID registration gets you into the app quickly, you’ll still need to bind a phone number later to engage with comments.
SMS-BUS offers a one-time virtual number that can be used to register for RedNote.
Changing Language Settings
One of the most crucial aspects of using RedNote comfortably is setting up your preferred language. The technique varies slightly between iOS and Android smartphones.
iPhone Users
- Tap Me (fourth choice at the bottom)
- Hit the Settings button
- Select General Settings
- Tap Language
- Choose English
- Wait for the app to refresh automatically
Android Users
- Tap Me at the bottom
- Select Settings
- Choose General Settings
- Tap Multi-language
- Select English
- Hit Save
Note: While the interface will transition to English, some user-generated content and system notifications may remain in Chinese.
Dealing with Chinese Content
Although the RedNote interface can be set to English, you may still see Chinese posts. There are three solutions:
1. Built-in iPhone Translation
- Create a snapshot of the Chinese post.
- Open the screenshot.
- Disable the markup icon.
- Use the iPhone’s built-in text detection and translation.
This method lets you view full English translations and tap specific lines for comprehensive translations. And view comments without navigating between apps.
2. Web Version
Access RedNote’s web version on your iPhone or computer to use automated translation tools. This option offers a fluid browsing experience and immediate translations.
3. Interactive Communication.
To engage with Chinese users: Download Gboard or similar keyboard apps.
- Use the built-in translation features.
- Communicate directly in Chinese.
Note: The RedNote team is actively trying to improve multilingual support, and we could see integrated translation tools in future versions.
Content Creation Tips
To establish a strong presence on RedNote, create interesting material in four key formats:
Photo Posts (图文)
- Share high-quality images
- Write detailed product reviews
- Provide step-by-step tutorials
- Present before and after comparisons.
Video Posts (视频)
- Generate short-form content (15 seconds to 5 minutes).
- Show products in action.
- Post lifestyle vlogs.
- Provide behind-the-scenes glimpses
Visual Quality Standards
- Use high-resolution photographs (1080p minimum)
- Check for good lighting and focus.
- Maintain consistency in visual branding.
- Use professional-grade editing.
Caption Writing Best Practices
- Use multilingual information (Chinese and English)
- Include detailed descriptions
- Use 3-5 appropriate hashtags.
- Provide clear calls to action.
Posting Strategy
- Post 3-4 times each week
- Respond to comments within 24 hours.
- Promote cross-platform.
- Keep up with hot issues.
Monetization Strategies
Are you ready to turn your RedNote presence into a money stream? Here is how you may monetize your account:
Direct Sales
Opportunities:
- Launch your RedNote store
- Create product listings
- Run promotional campaigns.
- Offer exclusive collections.
Requirements:
- Attract over 1,000 users
- Keep the account active for 30 days or more
- Complete the business verification.
- Establish a consistent posting history.
Brand Collaboration
Opportunities:
- Secure sponsored post deals
- Establish brand alliances.
- Engage in affiliate marketing
- Provide honest product reviews
Requirements:
- Reach 5,000+ followers
- Increase interaction rates
- Create high-quality content
- Establish specialty expertise
Potential Earnings Based on the Following
- Entry Level (1,000–5,000 followers): $70-280 for each post
- Mid-level (5k-20k followers): $280-1,100 for each post.
- Advanced (20k-100k followers): $1,100–4,200 for each post
- Top Tier (100k+ followers): $4,200 for each post.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use RedNote outside of China?
Yes, RedNote is available globally, albeit some functionality may be limited outside of China.
Why can’t I get the verification code when I register?
If you are not receiving the verification code, consider the following solutions:
- Verify your phone number
- Switch between WiFi and mobile data
- Test a different VPN connection.
- Wait 5–10 minutes before requesting another code.
- Purchase a virtual phone number to receive SMS.
What if it gets stuck at the loading screen?
Don’t worry; this is a common problem with straightforward solutions:
- Uninstall and reinstall RedNote.
- Turn airplane mode on and off.
- Restart the application.
How long does the account verification procedure take?
Basic verification usually takes 1–2 business days. Business verification involves extra documents and often takes 3-5 business days.
Which content performs best?
Lifestyle, beauty, fashion, and travel materials are often the most engaging. High-quality graphics combined with precise bilingual captions typically work exceedingly well.
How often should I post?
Maintain a consistent posting schedule of three to four times each week for best results. Combine photo and video content to increase reach and engagement.
Can I connect my other social media accounts?
WeChat and Weibo connections are supported. However, direct access to international networks such as Instagram and YouTube is not yet available.
How can I hide all Chinese content?
Unfortunately, there is presently no method to disable the display of Chinese content. However, RedNote is altering the rules to ensure that users can only see content relevant to their preferred language.
Why was my post deleted?
There are usually two scenarios:
If your post was removed soon after publication, it indicates that your material (text or photos) violated our Community Guidelines. We do not allow content that contains illegal substances, adult content, or other forbidden stuff. Please ensure that photographs exposing skin are not sexually provocative.
If your post remained visible for a while before being removed, it was most likely reported by another user. Don’t worry, you may just check and remove any text that may have raised concerns, then try publishing again with the necessary changes.
For further information on what is permitted, please refer to the official Community Guidelines.
Final thoughts
RedNote provides a unique opportunity to connect with a large, active audience. While the platform may appear difficult at first, particularly for non-Chinese speakers, the potential benefits outweigh the effort. Begin with the fundamentals, focus on providing high-quality content, and gradually expand your presence. With regular effort and the appropriate plan, you may acquire a sizable following and potentially a profitable presence on this rapidly expanding site.
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