How to Download Xiaohongshu on iOS Outside China: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

• What is Xiaohongshu and Why Download It?

• Method 1: Change Your Apple ID Region to China

• Method 2: Create a New Chinese Apple ID

• Method 3: Use a Third-Party App Store (Advanced Users)

• Setting Up Xiaohongshu After Installation

• Why International Brands Are Flocking to Xiaohongshu

If you've heard about Xiaohongshu (小红书), also known as RedNote or Little Red Book, you're already ahead of the curve. This powerhouse social commerce platform has captivated over 300 million monthly active users in China, blending Instagram's visual appeal with Amazon's shopping convenience and Reddit's authentic community discussions. But here's the catch: downloading Xiaohongshu on your iPhone outside China isn't as straightforward as hitting "Get" in the App Store.

Whether you're an international brand exploring marketing opportunities on China's fastest-growing social platform, a content creator looking to tap into a massive engaged audience, or simply curious about what makes Xiaohongshu so special, this guide will walk you through every method to successfully download and install the app on your iOS device from anywhere in the world.

Unlike many platforms, Xiaohongshu is primarily available through the Chinese App Store, which means you'll need to navigate region restrictions. Don't worry—we'll cover three proven methods, from the simplest approach to more advanced options, complete with troubleshooting tips for common hurdles you might encounter along the way.

What is Xiaohongshu and Why Download It?

Before diving into the technical steps, it's worth understanding what makes Xiaohongshu unique in the crowded social media landscape. Launched in 2013, Xiaohongshu started as a platform for Chinese consumers to share overseas shopping experiences and product reviews. It has since evolved into a sophisticated social commerce ecosystem where users discover products, share lifestyle content, and make purchase decisions—all within the same app.

What sets Xiaohongshu apart is its highly engaged, predominantly female user base (approximately 70%) with significant purchasing power. The platform excels at turning authentic user-generated content into sales, with beauty, fashion, food and beverage, travel, and mother and baby categories performing exceptionally well. For international brands, Xiaohongshu represents a golden opportunity to reach Chinese consumers who actively seek foreign products and experiences.

The challenge is that Xiaohongshu operates primarily within China's digital ecosystem, which means the app isn't readily available in most international App Stores. That's where this guide comes in.

Method 1: Change Your Apple ID Region to China

This method involves temporarily switching your existing Apple ID to the Chinese region. It's the most straightforward approach if you don't mind adjusting your account settings. However, be aware that changing regions comes with certain requirements and limitations.

1. Cancel Active Subscriptions – Before changing regions, you'll need to cancel any active subscriptions (like Apple Music, iCloud storage, or app subscriptions). Apple doesn't allow region changes with active subscriptions. Go to Settings > Your Name > Subscriptions and cancel any active ones. Don't worry—you'll retain access until the billing period ends.

2. Spend or Remove Store Credit – If you have any remaining balance in your Apple ID, you'll need to spend it or contact Apple Support to remove it. Even a few cents can prevent the region change. Check your balance under Settings > Your Name > Media & Purchases.

3. Access Your Apple ID Settings – Open Settings on your iPhone, tap your name at the top, then select "Media & Purchases." Tap "View Account" and you may need to authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your password.

4. Change Country or Region – Tap "Country/Region," then select "Change Country or Region." Scroll down and select "China Mainland." Read through Apple's Terms and Conditions and tap "Agree" in the top right corner.

5. Enter Chinese Payment Information – Here's where it gets tricky. Apple requires a valid payment method for the selected region. For China, you'll need either a Chinese payment method or you can select "None" if that option appears (it typically does for new region setups). You'll also need to enter a Chinese address. You can use a hotel address or a general business address in a major Chinese city like Shanghai or Beijing.

6. Download Xiaohongshu – Once your region is changed, open the App Store. Search for "小红书" (Xiaohongshu's Chinese characters) or "RedNote." The app should now appear in your search results. Tap "Get" to download and install it.

7. Switch Back (Optional) – After downloading, you can switch your Apple ID back to your original region by following the same steps. The Xiaohongshu app will remain on your device and continue to function, though you won't be able to update it unless you switch back to the Chinese region when updates are released.

Method 2: Create a New Chinese Apple ID

If you'd rather not modify your existing Apple ID, creating a dedicated Chinese Apple ID is an excellent alternative. This method allows you to switch between accounts without affecting your primary App Store region, subscriptions, or purchase history.

1. Sign Out of Your Current Apple ID – In the App Store only, not your entire device. Open the App Store, tap your profile icon in the top right, scroll to the bottom, and tap "Sign Out."

2. Begin Creating a New Account – Search for any free app in the App Store and tap "Get." When prompted to sign in, select "Create New Apple ID."

3. Select China as Your Region – When asked to select a country or region, choose "China Mainland." Enter a valid email address that isn't associated with an existing Apple ID (you can create a new Gmail or Outlook account for this purpose).

4. Complete the Registration Form – Fill in the required information including your name, birth date, and create a secure password. For the phone number, you'll need to enter a number that can receive SMS verification. Your regular international number should work fine for this purpose.

5. Set Payment to None – When you reach the payment information screen, select "None" as your payment method. If this option doesn't appear, try canceling and repeating the process with a different free app. Enter a Chinese address (again, a hotel or business address works).

6. Verify Your Email – Check your email for the verification code from Apple and enter it when prompted. You may also need to verify your phone number via SMS.

7. Access the Chinese App Store – Once your new Chinese Apple ID is verified and active, you'll automatically be in the Chinese App Store. Search for "小红书" and download Xiaohongshu.

8. Switch Between Accounts – The beauty of this method is flexibility. You can easily switch between your primary Apple ID and your Chinese one by signing in and out of the App Store (not iCloud). Your apps from both accounts will remain on your device.

Method 3: Use a Third-Party App Store (Advanced Users)

For users comfortable with more technical solutions, third-party app stores offer another pathway. This method comes with higher security risks and is generally not recommended unless you're experienced with iOS modifications.

Some users employ services like AltStore or sideloading methods to install apps not available in their region. However, these approaches require connecting your iPhone to a computer, installing specific software, and potentially exposing your device to security vulnerabilities. Additionally, apps installed this way may not update automatically and could stop working after Apple's app certificate expires (typically every 7 days for free accounts).

Important security consideration: Only download apps from trusted sources. Third-party app stores can potentially distribute modified or malicious versions of apps. If you choose this route, research thoroughly and proceed at your own risk. For most users, Methods 1 or 2 are significantly safer and more reliable.

Setting Up Xiaohongshu After Installation

Congratulations! Once you've successfully downloaded Xiaohongshu, you'll need to complete the setup process to start exploring the platform.

Registration Options – Xiaohongshu allows you to register using a phone number or through third-party accounts like WeChat or QQ. International phone numbers are generally accepted for SMS verification. Enter your number, receive the verification code, and complete the basic profile setup.

Language Settings – While Xiaohongshu is primarily a Chinese-language platform, you can navigate to settings (the profile icon > settings gear) to explore available options. The interface remains mostly in Chinese, which is intentional as the platform caters to Chinese-speaking users. Consider using your phone's translation features or learning basic Chinese navigation terms.

Profile Customization – Add a profile picture, write a brief bio, and start following accounts relevant to your interests. If you're representing a brand, consider how you want to position your account from the start. Authentic, culturally-appropriate content performs best on Xiaohongshu.

Content Discovery – Start exploring by searching for topics you're interested in or browsing the discovery feed. Xiaohongshu's algorithm learns quickly, so interacting with content (likes, saves, comments) will rapidly personalize your feed.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Even with detailed instructions, you might encounter some bumps along the way. Here are solutions to the most common problems:

"Cannot connect to App Store" – This usually indicates your region change hasn't fully processed. Sign out of your Apple ID completely, restart your iPhone, and sign back in. Wait a few minutes for Apple's servers to sync the change.

Payment method keeps getting rejected – Make sure you've selected "None" as your payment option. If this option isn't available, try the process again with a different free app. Alternatively, some users have success using gift card codes for the Chinese App Store.

Can't verify phone number – International numbers should work, but occasionally SMS verification fails. Try requesting the code again, check that you've entered the correct country code, or attempt verification at a different time. Some users report better success with certain carriers.

App appears in Chinese and I can't navigate – This is expected. Xiaohongshu is designed for Chinese-speaking users. You can use your phone's screenshot translation feature (available in Google Translate or similar apps) to translate interface elements. Over time, you'll learn the basic navigation patterns.

App updates aren't working – If you used Method 1 and switched back to your original region, you'll need to temporarily switch to the Chinese region again to update Xiaohongshu. If you used Method 2, simply switch to your Chinese Apple ID in the App Store to access updates.

Account verification issues – Xiaohongshu occasionally requires additional verification for accounts created outside China. Have your passport or ID ready if requested, and be patient with the verification process.

Why International Brands Are Flocking to Xiaohongshu

Downloading the app is just the first step. Understanding why Xiaohongshu matters for international brands helps contextualize the effort involved in accessing the platform.

Xiaohongshu's users don't just scroll—they actively search for product recommendations, read detailed reviews, and make purchasing decisions based on community content. The platform's unique algorithm prioritizes authentic, helpful content over follower counts, giving new brands genuine opportunities to gain traction. Categories like beauty, fashion, mother and baby, food and beverage, and lifestyle consistently see high engagement and conversion rates.

For brands serious about entering the Chinese market or connecting with Chinese consumers globally, establishing a presence on Xiaohongshu has become essential. The platform serves as both a brand awareness channel and a conversion driver, with users frequently moving from discovery to purchase within the ecosystem.

This is where strategic guidance becomes invaluable. Successfully marketing on Xiaohongshu requires understanding cultural nuances, platform-specific content formats, KOL collaboration best practices, and localization strategies that resonate with Chinese consumers. Resources like comprehensive training programs, data-driven industry reports, and ready-to-use templates can dramatically shorten the learning curve.

If you're exploring Xiaohongshu for business purposes, consider accessing industry-specific marketing strategies that provide deep dives into how different verticals succeed on the platform, or explore free resources to begin understanding platform dynamics before diving into paid campaigns.

Final Thoughts

Downloading Xiaohongshu on iOS outside China requires a bit more effort than your typical app installation, but the access to one of the world's most influential social commerce platforms makes it worthwhile. Whether you're using Method 1 (changing your Apple ID region), Method 2 (creating a dedicated Chinese Apple ID), or exploring more advanced options, you now have the knowledge to successfully install and set up the app.

Remember that having the app installed is just the beginning. Xiaohongshu's real value emerges when you understand how to navigate its unique culture, create content that resonates with its community, and leverage its algorithm to build meaningful connections with Chinese consumers. The platform rewards authenticity, quality, and cultural awareness—attributes that can't be faked or automated.

For brands ready to move beyond simple exploration and develop serious marketing strategies on Xiaohongshu, professional guidance can make the difference between spinning your wheels and achieving measurable results. Whether you need comprehensive training, data-driven insights across 20+ industries, or hands-on consultation to navigate platform complexities, expert support ensures your Xiaohongshu efforts translate into actual business outcomes.

Access to Xiaohongshu opens doors to understanding one of the most dynamic consumer communities in the world. With over 300 million monthly active users actively seeking product recommendations, sharing authentic experiences, and making purchase decisions, the platform represents an unparalleled opportunity for brands willing to invest in culturally-appropriate, authentic engagement.

Whether you've chosen to change your Apple ID region, create a dedicated Chinese account, or explore alternative installation methods, you're now equipped to access Xiaohongshu from anywhere in the world. As you begin exploring the platform, pay attention to content formats that perform well, note how successful brands position themselves, and consider how your unique value proposition can resonate within this distinctive digital ecosystem.

The journey from downloading the app to building a successful presence requires knowledge, strategy, and cultural intelligence. But with the right approach and resources, Xiaohongshu can become a cornerstone of your China market strategy.

Ready to Master Xiaohongshu Marketing?

Downloading the app is just the first step. Building a successful presence on Xiaohongshu requires deep platform knowledge, cultural intelligence, and strategic execution. Whether you're exploring initial market entry or scaling existing efforts, AllXHS provides the resources and expertise international brands need to succeed.

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