How to Download Xiaohongshu Outside China: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Date Published
Table Of Contents
• What is Xiaohongshu and Why Download It?
• Can You Download Xiaohongshu Outside China?
• Method 1: Download Xiaohongshu on iOS (iPhone/iPad)
• Method 2: Download Xiaohongshu on Android
• Method 3: Access Xiaohongshu on Desktop/Web
• Setting Up Your Xiaohongshu Account After Download
• Common Download Issues and Troubleshooting
• Using Xiaohongshu for Business: Next Steps
Xiaohongshu (小红书), also known as RedNote or Little Red Book, has become one of China's most influential social commerce platforms, with over 300 million monthly active users driving purchasing decisions across beauty, fashion, lifestyle, and countless other categories. For international brands and marketers looking to tap into the Chinese consumer market, accessing this platform is the essential first step.
However, downloading Xiaohongshu outside of China isn't as straightforward as installing most international apps. Geographic restrictions, app store limitations, and language barriers can make the process confusing for first-time users. Whether you're a brand manager researching the platform, a marketer preparing to launch campaigns, or simply curious about China's social commerce phenomenon, this guide will walk you through every method to successfully download and access Xiaohongshu from anywhere in the world.
In this comprehensive tutorial, you'll learn multiple proven methods for downloading Xiaohongshu on iOS and Android devices, how to access the platform via desktop, troubleshooting tips for common issues, and what to do after installation to get started with your account.
What is Xiaohongshu and Why Download It?
Before diving into the download process, it's worth understanding why Xiaohongshu has become indispensable for brands targeting Chinese consumers. Unlike traditional social media platforms, Xiaohongshu combines authentic user-generated content with seamless shopping experiences, creating a unique ecosystem where product discovery and purchase happen within the same browsing session.
The platform's predominantly female user base (approximately 70%) consists of affluent, educated consumers aged 18-35 who actively seek recommendations before making purchasing decisions. Users share detailed product reviews, lifestyle content, and shopping experiences through photos and videos, creating a trusted community-driven marketplace. For international brands, this represents a direct channel to influence Chinese consumers at the crucial discovery and consideration stages of their buying journey.
Downloading the app allows you to conduct competitive research, understand trending content formats, study successful brand strategies, and eventually launch your own marketing presence on the platform.
Can You Download Xiaohongshu Outside China?
Yes, you can absolutely download and use Xiaohongshu outside of China, though the process differs depending on your device and location. The app is primarily designed for the Chinese market, which means it may not appear in your local app store's default search results or may be region-locked in certain countries.
The good news is that Xiaohongshu doesn't require you to be physically located in China to use it, nor does it require a Chinese phone number for all registration methods. International users can browse content, create accounts, post their own content, and engage with the community from anywhere in the world. The platform has actually been expanding its international presence, making it increasingly accessible to global users.
That said, you'll need to use specific methods to download the app depending on your device type, which we'll cover in detail below.
Method 1: Download Xiaohongshu on iOS (iPhone/iPad)
For iOS users, downloading Xiaohongshu requires accessing the Chinese App Store, as the app is primarily available there. Here's the complete step-by-step process:
1. Create a new Apple ID with China as the region
The most reliable method is creating a separate Apple ID specifically for accessing Chinese apps. Visit appleid.apple.com on a web browser and click "Create Your Apple ID." Fill in your information, but crucially, select China mainland as your country/region. Use an email address that isn't already associated with an Apple ID. Complete the verification process through your email.
2. Sign out of your current Apple ID on your device
On your iPhone or iPad, open Settings, tap your name at the top, scroll down, and select "Sign Out." You don't need to sign out of iCloud entirely—you can choose to keep data like contacts and photos on your device while signing out of the App Store specifically.
3. Sign in with your new China-region Apple ID
Go to Settings > Media & Purchases (or iTunes & App Store on older iOS versions) and sign in with your newly created China-region Apple ID. You'll be prompted to agree to terms and conditions.
4. Complete payment information setup
When setting up your China App Store account, you'll need to provide a billing address. Select None as your payment method, then enter a valid Chinese address. You can use a hotel address in major cities like Beijing or Shanghai (easily found through a quick search). This step is necessary even if you're only downloading free apps.
5. Open the App Store and search for Xiaohongshu
Once your China Apple ID is active, open the App Store app. The interface will now be in Chinese. Search for "小红书" (Xiaohongshu in Chinese characters) or "RedNote." The official app has a red icon with a white underlined text design.
6. Download and install the app
Tap the download button (显示 "获取" in Chinese, meaning "Get"). The app will install like any other iOS application. Once complete, you can sign back into your regular Apple ID for other purchases while keeping Xiaohongshu installed—the app will continue to work normally.
Alternative method: If creating a new Apple ID seems too complex, you can ask a friend with access to the Chinese App Store to download it using their account, then sign back into your own account. Already-downloaded apps remain functional even after switching accounts.
Method 2: Download Xiaohongshu on Android
Android users have more flexibility when downloading Xiaohongshu, with several methods available depending on your device and comfort level with third-party sources.
Option A: Download from APK sites (Recommended for most users)
1. Enable installation from unknown sources
Before downloading an APK file, you'll need to allow your device to install apps from sources other than the Google Play Store. Go to Settings > Security (or Privacy, depending on your Android version) and enable "Unknown sources" or "Install unknown apps." On newer Android versions, you'll grant this permission to specific apps like your web browser or file manager.
2. Download the Xiaohongshu APK file
Using your mobile browser, visit a reputable APK download site such as APKPure, APKMirror, or Uptodown. Search for "Xiaohongshu" or "RedNote." Make sure you're downloading from the official developer (Xingin). Always verify the file size and version match current releases to avoid modified versions.
3. Install the downloaded APK
Once the download completes, open your file manager or notification panel and tap the APK file. Follow the installation prompts. The app will install within seconds and appear in your app drawer like any other application.
4. Update security settings (optional)
After installation, you may want to disable "Unknown sources" again for security purposes, though this isn't strictly necessary. The app will update normally through the APK site you downloaded from.
Option B: Use a Chinese Android app store
1. Download a Chinese app marketplace
Apps like Tencent MyApp, Baidu App Store, or Huawei AppGallery (if not pre-installed) offer access to Chinese applications. Download one of these store apps through your browser as an APK first.
2. Search and install Xiaohongshu
Open the Chinese app store, search for Xiaohongshu (小红书), and install it directly. This method also provides easier access to updates and other Chinese apps you might need.
Option C: Google Play Store (limited availability)
In some regions, Xiaohongshu occasionally appears in the Google Play Store under the name "RedNote." Search for it in your Play Store—if available in your country, this is the simplest and safest method. However, availability is inconsistent and the app may not appear in all markets.
Method 3: Access Xiaohongshu on Desktop/Web
While Xiaohongshu is primarily a mobile-first platform, you can access it through desktop browsers for browsing and research purposes.
1. Visit the official Xiaohongshu website
Open your web browser and go to xiaohongshu.com or redbook.com (international domain). The web version provides access to content browsing and basic account features.
2. Log in or browse as a guest
You can explore popular content without logging in, or create an account and sign in to access more features. The web interface allows you to view posts, search for topics, and browse user profiles.
3. Use web-based account management
For brands and creators, the desktop version offers access to Xiaohongshu's creator center and business tools at creator.xiaohongshu.com, where you can analyze performance data, manage posts, and access advanced features not available in the mobile app.
Limitations to note: The web version has limited functionality compared to the mobile app. You cannot post new content through most web browsers, and interactive features are reduced. For full platform access, especially for content creation and community engagement, the mobile app remains essential.
Setting Up Your Xiaohongshu Account After Download
Once you've successfully downloaded Xiaohongshu, creating and configuring your account is straightforward, even for international users.
Registration options
Xiaohongshu offers multiple ways to register. You can sign up using a phone number (international numbers are accepted), email address, or through third-party accounts like WeChat or QQ (though these require Chinese accounts). For most international users, email or international phone number registration works best.
Language settings
While Xiaohongshu's interface is primarily in Chinese, you can navigate settings by looking for the profile icon (bottom right), then the settings gear icon (top right). Some newer versions include English language options, though content on the platform remains predominantly in Chinese.
Profile setup for business users
If you're downloading Xiaohongshu for brand research or marketing purposes, consider setting up a complete profile even if you're just observing initially. Upload a profile picture, write a bio, and select relevant interests. This allows you to save posts, follow competitors and influencers, and understand the user experience your potential customers have.
For brands ready to establish an official presence, you'll want to explore Xiaohongshu's business account options and verification processes, which provide access to advertising tools, analytics, and enhanced credibility. AllXHS offers expert Xiaohongshu marketing services to help international brands navigate the account setup and verification process efficiently.
Common Download Issues and Troubleshooting
Even with detailed instructions, you might encounter some obstacles when downloading Xiaohongshu. Here are solutions to the most common problems:
"App not available in your region" error (iOS)
This typically means you're still signed into your local-region Apple ID rather than a China-region ID. Double-check that you've switched to your China Apple ID specifically in Settings > Media & Purchases. Remember, you don't need to sign out of iCloud completely—just the App Store portion.
"Payment method required" when creating China Apple ID
If Apple insists on a payment method during setup, try creating the Apple ID directly through the App Store on your device rather than through the website. When prompted for payment during first-time setup in the Chinese App Store, the "None" option should appear. If it doesn't, try adding a valid China address first, which sometimes triggers the None option to appear.
APK installation blocked on Android
If your Android device refuses to install the APK despite enabling unknown sources, check whether you have Google Play Protect enabled. Go to Play Store > Menu > Play Protect > Settings and temporarily disable "Scan apps with Play Protect." Install Xiaohongshu, then re-enable the protection if desired.
App crashes immediately after opening
This often indicates you've downloaded an incompatible version for your device. Return to your APK source and ensure you're downloading the correct version for your Android version and device architecture (ARM vs. x86). For iOS users, this might indicate insufficient storage space—try freeing up space and reinstalling.
Cannot complete registration
If you're having trouble completing account registration, ensure your international phone number is formatted correctly with the country code (e.g., +1 for US, +44 for UK). Alternatively, use email registration instead, which typically has fewer verification issues for international users.
Content not loading or slow performance
Since Xiaohongshu's servers are optimized for users in China, international users sometimes experience slower loading times. This is normal and not an indication of improper installation. Using a reliable internet connection helps, though some latency is expected when accessing China-based platforms from abroad.
Using Xiaohongshu for Business: Next Steps
Now that you've successfully downloaded Xiaohongshu, you're positioned to explore China's most dynamic social commerce ecosystem. For casual users, simply browsing content and following interests provides valuable insight into Chinese consumer trends and preferences.
For brands and marketers, however, downloading the app is just the beginning of your Xiaohongshu journey. Understanding the platform's unique algorithm, content formats, cultural nuances, and best practices requires deeper expertise. With over 300 million users making daily purchasing decisions based on Xiaohongshu content, getting your strategy right can open significant market opportunities.
Successful Xiaohongshu marketing involves understanding vertical-specific strategies that vary dramatically across industries. Beauty brands, for instance, require completely different content approaches than F&B or mother & baby products. Content that works on Instagram or TikTok often needs substantial adaptation for Xiaohongshu's community-driven, authenticity-focused environment.
AllXHS provides comprehensive resources specifically designed for international brands navigating Xiaohongshu marketing. Our platform offers industry-specific marketing strategies covering 20+ verticals, 378+ data-driven industry reports, and a complete training academy with 21 modules covering everything from content creation to influencer partnerships and paid advertising.
Whether you're conducting initial research, planning your first campaign, or scaling an existing presence, having access to platform-specific expertise can significantly shorten your learning curve and improve ROI. You can explore our free Xiaohongshu resources to begin building your knowledge, or work directly with specialists who understand both Western marketing principles and Chinese platform dynamics.
Conclusion
Downloading Xiaohongshu outside China is entirely achievable with the right approach for your device type. iOS users can access the app by creating a China-region Apple ID, while Android users have flexible options through APK downloads or Chinese app stores. Desktop users can browse content through the web version, though the mobile app provides the complete experience.
Once installed, Xiaohongshu opens a window into Chinese consumer behavior, trending products, successful content strategies, and the social commerce ecosystem that's reshaping how millions of users discover and purchase products. For international brands, this access is invaluable for market research, competitive analysis, and eventually building your own presence on China's fastest-growing social commerce platform.
Remember that downloading the app is just the first step. Successfully marketing on Xiaohongshu requires understanding cultural nuances, platform-specific best practices, content strategies that resonate with Chinese consumers, and the technical aspects of algorithms, SEO, and community management that make the platform unique.
Whether you're exploring Xiaohongshu for the first time or ready to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy, you now have the knowledge to access the platform from anywhere in the world.
Ready to Master Xiaohongshu Marketing?
Downloading the app is just the beginning. If you're serious about succeeding on Xiaohongshu, you need platform-specific expertise that bridges Western marketing principles with Chinese consumer behavior.
AllXHS is the #1 English-language resource for international brands on Xiaohongshu, offering 378+ industry reports, comprehensive training modules, and proven strategies across 20+ verticals.
[Contact our team](https://www.allxhs.com/contact) to discuss how we can help you navigate Xiaohongshu's unique ecosystem and build a successful presence on China's leading social commerce platform.