Archive · 14 Jan 2026
Chinese App 'Are You Dead?' Rebrands Globally
There's a new app in China called 'Are You Dead?'
that helps people who live alone.
It makes sure you're safe by asking you to check in every few days.
If you don't, it tells a friend or family member you chose.
The app became very popular, and now the makers are changing its name to 'Demumu' for people outside China.
They're also adding a small fee to help with costs.
Some people like the app's direct name, while others think the new name is better.
It's a simple way to stay safe when you live by yourself.
The app 'Sileme' (Are You Dead?) went viral in China, prompting a name change to 'Demumu' for global release.
It sends alerts to emergency contacts if users don't check in regularly, targeting solo dwellers.
The app surged to the top of Apple's paid app chart in China, with plans to introduce an 8 yuan subscription fee.
China has up to 200 million one-person households, with a solo living rate exceeding 30%.
Users are divided on the name change, with some preferring the original blunt name for its attention-grabbing quality.
- Who
- Developers of the Sileme/Demumu app, a team of three born after 1995
- What
- An app that sends alerts if users don't check in, initially named 'Are You Dead?'
- When
- The app went viral in January 2024
- Where
- China, with plans for global release
- Why
- To provide a safety tool for people living alone and to avoid criticism for its name
Keep Original Name
Change Name
Name Choice
Keep Original Name
Users prefer the original blunt name 'Are You Dead?' for its attention-grabbing quality.
Change Name
The app will be renamed 'Demumu' for its global release to avoid widespread criticism.
- App Name
- Sileme (Chinese), Demumu (Global)
- Function
- Sends alerts if user doesn't check in
- Target Users
- People living alone
- Subscription Fee
- 8 yuan (₹104)
- One-Person Households in China
- Up to 200 million
- Solo Living Rate in China
- Exceeds 30%
- App Store Ranking
- Number two on Apple's paid app chart
Sources
‘Are you dead?’ Chinese app for single living goes viral
Viral Chinese Safety App 'Are You Dead?' To Change Its Name
‘Are You Dead?’ App for Singles Hits No.2 on Apple Store, Faces Name Change
‘Are you dead?’ safety app for solo dwellers goes viral in China, changes name ahead of global launch
Viral Chinese app ‘Are You Dead’ to get a new name? Here's what we know
'Are You Dead?': China creates app to check on senior citizens and single dwellers
