Have you thought of a smartphone app that would be concerned with your way of life and wellbeing, in particular, if you live alone far off in distant cities? Well, that’s a reality. The app’s name is Are You Dead, and it’s gone a massive hit in China at the moment and has most of us talking about it. As blunt as the app name sounds, there’s a humane side to its intent. Let’s learn more about this app.
What’s in a name, anyway!
It seems that the app is about the name, too. In China, it’s called “Sileme” (pronounced “sir-luh may”), which kind of translates to “Are You Dead” in English. As the app gained immense global fame, it is now introducing a premium free.
And guess what? The developers have changed the app’s name to “Demumu,” where “De” draws from “death” and “mumu” gives it a cheeky and friendlier feel. The developers expect that the new name fits in with global users who would want a softer name, maybe. Though the app retains its original name and though it sounds morbid, the dark humor has found its acceptance in China among the city-dwellers.
What is the “Are You Dead” app?
“Are You Dead” is basically a smartphone app. The developers have described it as a safety tool for solo livers. In China, millions move from their original home to live in cities for higher studies, work, and just to live a solitary life. The app has been created to check up on whether they are alive and well.
And if you were curious why an app with such a name was developed in the first place, there’s a credible status to keep note of. China is a country with one of the largest single-person households, and could reach 200 million by 2030. Urban mobility has risen among the youth. But as people choose to live by themselves, it comes with its own caveats. Their mental conditions, health challenges, and overall well-being could come under effect. Therefore, the developers, all in their 20s, built what they call a “safety tool”.
“Thanks to all netizens for their enthusiastic support. We were originally just an unknown small team, co-founded and operated independently by three born after 1995,” Sileme said as Reuters reported.
The app was launched in May 2025. But it has shot to popularity with a large number of young people downloading it in recent weeks. It’s also the most downloaded paid app in China at the moment.
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How does the app work?
The app Are You Dead (Demumu) works by having users set up an emergency contact. The user has to check in with the app every two days, tapping on a large button to confirm that he/she is alive. If the user doesn’t check in, then the app sends notifications to the emergency number. It’s simple yet effective.
If the person using the emergency contact receives notification, they understand that something is not well with their relative or close friend living distant.
App availability
The “Are You Dead” app is available on Apple’s App Store as Demumu at HK$8. It’s not there yet on Android, so beware of other similar-looking apps. Officially, it could be on the way to appear there too.
