RedNote Surges Amid TikTok Ban: Latest Tech Trends -

Another week of fresh tech trends and news:

📈 Over half a million U.S. users join RedNote in response to the looming TikTok ban.

🗂️ Lesson of the week: Filtering data in spreadsheets.

🚀 CES 2025 showcased groundbreaking tech, including AI models, expandable laptops, foldable EVs, and sustainable innovations.

📸 Weekly Tech Tip: Take better photos at night.

📘 Book of the Week: “Cool Infographics” by Randy Krum.

Learn Something New This Year

Mass Exodus of Americans Joining RedNote

As the U.S. moves closer to banning TikTok, over half a million American users are flocking to RedNote (Xiaohongshu), a Chinese social media platform, in search of an alternative.

The sudden surge has pushed RedNote to the top of U.S. app store rankings, forcing the company to rapidly scale content moderation and translation efforts.

This mass migration highlights a broader shift in global tech trends, as users scramble to find new online communities amid rising regulatory pressure.

Lesson of the Week

This week, learn all about filtering and sorting data in spreadsheets—essential skills for analyzing and organizing information—sourced from our unit, “Working with spreadsheets.”

Question of the Week:

How can Daniel use filter drop-downs to sort values in a spreadsheet program?

Select one

A) Right-click the column header, choose Sort from the context menu, and select sorting criteria

B) Use the Sort & Filter button in the toolbar and select the column and sorting criteria

C) Click on the drop-down arrow next to the column header and choose the appropriate sorting option

See if you’re right–the answer is at the bottom!

Expandable Laptops & More Tech Trends at CES

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is the world’s largest tech trade show, showcasing cutting-edge innovations and tech trends.

From Nvidia’s AI model to Lenovo’s expandable laptop, the event highlighted game-changing advancements this year.

Other innovations included foldable flying EVs, biodegradable batteries, AI-powered robots, ultra-bright smartwatches, and solar-powered vehicles, emphasizing sustainability and smart solutions.

Weekly Tech Tip

Take Better Photos at Night

Among the tech trends we’re showcasing this week, learn these tips and tricks on how to take optimal photos at night:

Activate Night Mode: Check if your phone enables it automatically or needs manual activation.
Seek Light Sources: Use streetlights, shop windows, or festive lights for better composition.
Wait for the Right Moment: Position subjects in well-lit areas and be patient for the best shot.
Keep Your Phone Steady: Use a wall, trash can, or tuck elbows in for stability.
Use Long Exposure (if available): Capture light trails from moving cars for creative effects.
Edit Thoughtfully: Adjust exposure carefully to avoid excessive noise and enhance contrast.

Book of the Week

“Cool Infographics” covers how visual design techniques enhance information retention and communication.

It provides guidance on creating effective infographics using the best tools and methods, keeping you aligned with modern tech trends like data visualization and personal branding through infographic resumes.

Additionally, it covers business and marketing applications, helping professionals present complex data clearly and persuasively.