Duolingo’s Surge in Mandarin Learners Amid TikTok Ban and RedNote’s Rise

2025 is shaping up to be a transformative year for language learning, as Duolingo has reported a 216% increase in U.S. users learning Mandarin, coinciding with the rise of Chinese social media platform RedNote. As TikTok faces a potential ban in the U.S., users have flocked to RedNote, sparking a wave of cultural exchange. This has led many to turn to Duolingo for help mastering Mandarin and diving deeper into Chinese culture.

The Growing Popularity of RedNote

In response to the looming ban of TikTok, American users are exploring alternatives, with RedNote emerging as a leading choice. Initially designed for Chinese users, RedNote has quickly gained traction in the U.S. as people seek new, engaging social media platforms. The platform's dynamic, community-driven content offers a unique blend of lifestyle, entertainment, and e-commerce, making it an appealing choice for former TikTok users. As the platform gains ground, it has also highlighted the growing need for cross-cultural communication, especially in Mandarin.

While the transition from TikTok to RedNote hasn’t been entirely smooth—due to registration issues and some account suspensions—this shift shows the demand for social media experiences tailored for global communities. RedNote has been seen as a way for users to stay connected with their interests while diving deeper into the nuances of Chinese social networking.

Duolingo’s Response to Mandarin Surge

As more Americans turn to RedNote, the need to learn Mandarin has surged. This is where Duolingo comes in, experiencing a remarkable 216% increase in U.S. users learning Mandarin. As RedNote’s popularity grew, Duolingo saw a direct spike in its own user base, with many newcomers discovering the app through TikTok. According to Duolingo’s reports, this surge has been most noticeable in mid-January, as RedNote’s influence in the U.S. escalated.

Duolingo, a leader in mobile language learning, provides a gamified approach to learning languages, making it accessible and enjoyable for all ages. Users can start learning Mandarin in small, manageable lessons, making it easy for beginners to dive into the language without feeling overwhelmed. With over 200% more learners in the U.S., it’s clear that Duolingo has become a vital tool for many trying to keep up with the rise of RedNote.

Why Learn Mandarin?

The rise of Mandarin as a language of choice isn’t just about social media. In a world increasingly driven by global trade and digital exchange, knowing Mandarin opens up significant opportunities. As China remains a dominant force in technology, business, and culture, the demand for Mandarin proficiency continues to rise.

For many U.S. users, learning Mandarin is not just about engaging with content on platforms like RedNote but also about understanding the cultural trends shaping the world. The rapid growth of Mandarin learners reflects the broader cultural trend of seeking to bridge gaps between East and West. Additionally, learning Mandarin provides access to a rich history of Chinese literature, film, and art, further fueling interest in the language.

Related: Life After TikTok: The Best Alternative Apps in 2025

Duolingo’s Role in Language Learning

Duolingo continues to redefine language learning with its approach to making education more accessible. The app’s ability to integrate real-world trends—such as the rise of RedNote—shows just how adaptable Duolingo is in meeting the needs of modern learners. Whether you’re a traveler, a professional, or simply someone interested in Chinese culture, Duolingo offers a user-friendly way to learn and practice Mandarin.

Furthermore, Duolingo’s impact extends beyond Mandarin. As a leader in language learning, Duolingo has seen a steady increase in learners of other languages as well. English, for example, continues to dominate globally as the most-studied language. With Duolingo’s diverse language offerings, learners from around the world are tapping into the platform to expand their linguistic skills, contributing to the app’s overall growth.

A New Era of Social Media and Language Learning

The potential TikTok ban and the rise of RedNote have created a unique intersection of social media, cultural exchange, and language learning. As U.S. users make the shift, Duolingo is poised to help bridge the language gap, offering an engaging and accessible way to learn Mandarin. The app’s ability to quickly adapt to global trends has made it the go-to platform for many new Mandarin learners, and it’s only expected to grow in the coming months.

Whether you’re interested in diving into Mandarin for social media or career purposes, Duolingo offers an exciting way to start your language-learning journey. As 2025 unfolds, the convergence of Chinese platforms, U.S. users, and language learning will undoubtedly shape the future of cross-cultural communication.