In the days before a ban on the popular app TikTok is set to take effect in the United States, other Chinese social media platforms have seen a spike in downloads among American users. But whether any of these Mandarin apps will actually replace TikTok,

With the U.S. ban on TikTok looming, many Americans are opting for another Chinese app known as RedNote. It could be short-lived.

American and Chinese social media users are bonding on social media app RedNote in an ironic twist that could backfire on the U.S. government's plan to ban TikTok. So-called “TikTok refugees” are flocking to Chinese app RedNote for its similar format and being welcomed with open arms.