As the U.S. debates a potential federal ban on TikTok, Duolingo has reported a dramatic rise in Mandarin Chinese learners. The language-learning platform noted a 216% increase in new U.S. users learning Mandarin compared to the same period last year. This surge coincides with TikTok users migrating to alternative platforms, particularly the Chinese app Xiaohongshu, also known as RedNote in English.
RedNote, which offers similar features to TikTok, is primarily in Mandarin. The platform’s language barrier has prompted many users to begin learning Mandarin to better navigate and engage with its content. According to reports, RedNote has become the most downloaded free app on iOS in the U.S., a trend directly linked to concerns over TikTok’s future in the country.
The U.S. Supreme Court is currently deliberating a federal ban on TikTok, owned by Chinese tech company ByteDance, due to national security concerns. Lawmakers and intelligence officials have raised alarms over the app’s potential to share user data with the Chinese government. While the debate continues, many TikTok users are preemptively exploring alternatives, including RedNote, which is gaining traction as a go-to platform for content creators and influencers.
Duolingo’s data illustrates how social media trends can drive demand for language learning. The spike in Mandarin learners underscores the interconnectedness of global digital platforms and the adaptability of users navigating shifting online landscapes. As platforms like RedNote rise in popularity, the need for language skills becomes critical for those aiming to access and utilize content on international apps effectively.
The ongoing TikTok controversy highlights not only geopolitical tensions but also the influence of social media on cultural and linguistic exchanges.
