An app that checks if you're still alive has become a hit in China

The app was launched in May last year without much public response, but in recent weeks it has seen an explosion of interest – particularly among young people living alone in Chinese cities – making it the most downloaded paid app in the country.

Reflection of social changes

The app's success is closely linked to demographic and social trends. According to research institutions, there will be up to 200 million single-person households in China by 2030. It is these individuals that the app, which describes itself as "a safety companion for anyone living alone - office workers, students or anyone who chooses an independent lifestyle", is aimed at.

Users on social media openly admit that the app appeals to deeper fears.”People who live alone need something like this at some point in their lives,” one of them wrote. Another added: “Sometimes I wonder who would find me if I died alone.“

Personal stories as the key to popularity

Wilson Hou, 38, who spends most of his time in Beijing, about 100 kilometers away from his family, shares these concerns. Because he often sleeps on the construction site, he worries that something could happen to him without anyone noticing.

“So I downloaded the app and set my mom as my emergency contact.,” he said. He added that he downloaded the app soon after its release because he was afraid that the authorities might ban it due to the negative connotations of the name.

A controversial name, but strong recognition

The app's name has been met with mixed reactions, with some saying it brings bad luck, while others are calling for it to be changed to a more positive name, such as "Are You OK?" or "How Are You?" Moonscape Technologies said it was taking the criticism seriously and was considering changing the name.

Interestingly, it is a pun on a popular Chinese food delivery app, as the name in Chinese phonetically resembles the well-known platform. Internationally, the app is known as Demumu and also ranks highly in the US, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia and Spain, which is said to be partly due to Chinese users abroad.

Initially free, the app now costs a symbolic eight yuan (around 1 euro). It was created by three young developers born after 1995 with a small team in the city of Zhengzhou.

One of the founders, known as Mr. Guo, told Chinese media that they plan to raise funds by selling a 10% stake in the company for 1 million yuan – a significant jump from the estimated 1,000 yuan that the initial development of the app is expected to cost.

Looking towards older users

The company is also considering expanding its target audience. In a country where more than a fifth of the population is over 60, it is considering developing a version of the app aimed at seniors who live alone. In a recent post, it said it wanted more attention and care for the elderly, who also deserve safety and respect.

The success of the Are You Dead? app reveals how technology is adapting to new social realities – from urbanization and loneliness to an aging population. While the name may sound provocative, the app clearly addresses the real needs of people seeking at least a minimal sense of security in an increasingly individualized world.