As a TikTok ban approaches, angry users are flocking to other Chinese social media apps

some TikTok users Don’t even wait The next ban is on January 19 To test other short video sharing apps, but instead deadSocial networking sites or Feediversethey’re streaming to other Chinese-owned mobile software platforms.

Two applications owned by Chinese companies. Xiao Hongshu (which translates to “little red book” and is also called RedNote) and Lemon8, owned by TikTok’s parent company ByteDance, top the free app download charts in the US. iPhone and Android users. RedNote is owned by Xingyin Information Technology, a private company based in Shanghai.

like Jane HamiltonOne of the famous TikTok users, He explained in the videoDownloading Chinese apps is a form of protest against the steps to shut down TikTok in the United States. Hamilton said: “Don’t you want the Chinese to get our very sensitive personal data? We will hand it over to them directly.” “I don’t care.”

Read more: 3 things you should definitely do before the TikTok ban goes into effect on January 19

It was Redknot Looks like A cross between Pinterest and Instagram, with a focus on short-form lifestyle content. Lemon8, a sister app to TikTok, also has it Pinterest-like aesthetic But it focuses more on videos that deal with lifestyle topics, such as food, home, and health.

Lawmakers have expressed concern for years that TikTok, which has 170 million users in the United States, poses a national security threat intertwined with privacy risks. Last year, a new federal law was passed requiring the use of TikTok Look for a buyer based in the US Or it will be closed, with a deadline of Sunday, January 19. Lawyers representing TIkTok argued that it was about freedom of expression. The US Supreme Court is expected to hold a hearing within the next few days Judging whether to uphold this law.

It is unclear how a TikTok ban, if the law is upheld, could affect access to other apps owned by Chinese companies including RedNote and Lemon8. This did not stop Hamilton and other users from Start learning Chinese Languages ​​and Direct friends to their profiles On these Tik Tok alternative Platforms. Language learning application Duolingo announced on January 15 It saw a massive 216% growth in Mandarin learners compared to last year.

Other TikTok alternatives Which appear to be gaining ground on the app charts include short video apps Flip and Clapper, both based in the US. Each is in the top five most downloaded free apps in the Apple App Store.