A Chinese mobile application whose original name literally asked “Are you dead?” has become a viral hit and is now being rebranded with a new name as its makers prepare for an international rollout.
The app, developed by a small independent team, was known in Mandarin as Sileme — which translates directly as “Are you dead?” — and has surged to the top of China’s paid download charts after striking a chord with millions of people living alone in cities.
Designed as a simple safety tool, it prompts users to check in regularly — typically every couple of days — by tapping a button on screen to confirm they are okay. If a user fails to check in over consecutive days, the software automatically notifies a pre-designated emergency contact that there might be a problem.
The developers describe the app as a “lightweight safety tool” for anyone adopting a solitary lifestyle, from students to office workers without regular social contact. Its popularity highlights China’s rapidly growing number of one-person households — potentially as many as 200 million — as urbanisation and changing lifestyles leave more people living apart from family.
In response to its viral success and the attention drawn by its blunt name, the company recently announced that the global version will be released under the new name Demumu. The app is already listed under that name in international app stores and currently sits near the top of paid charts outside China.
The team has also introduced a modest subscription charge — around eight yuan (about £1.15) — to help cover running costs as the service grows.
The original name sparked lively debate on social media, with some users welcoming its stark honesty and others suggesting alternatives like “Are you alive?”, “Are you online?” or “Are you there?”. Despite the renaming, the app’s simple safety-check concept continues to attract attention both at home and abroad.
Author: Pishon Yip