**”Are You Dead?” Application Rises in Popularity in China and Abroad**
In early 2026, a surprising application emerged at the top of the paid apps list on the App Store in China. The app, oddly named “Are You Dead?”, went viral thanks to its distinctive concept. Available for approximately 8 CNY ($1), it permits users to designate an emergency contact who will be alerted if the user fails to check in daily. This function is aimed at individuals who live alone, responding to concerns regarding emergencies. By 2030, forecasts suggest that China could have up to 200 million one-person households, with more than 30% of the population living independently, as reported by Global Times through BBC.
The app, branded as Demumu in Western markets, acts as a safety assistant for solitary office employees, students, and those preferring isolated lifestyles. Its Chinese title, “Si-le-ma,” plays on a well-known food app, “E-le-ma” (“Are You Hungry?”). Despite its grim title, the safety functionalities of the app have fostered its appeal.
**Global Success and Functionalities**
Created by developers born after 1995, the app required around 1,000 CNY ($140) for its development. Moonscape Technologies, the firm behind it, is contemplating a rebranding in light of criticism. On an international scale, Demumu ranks among the leading paid utility applications in the U.S., Singapore, and Hong Kong, and is positioned in the top four in Australia and Spain. The app’s privacy protocols consist of no collection of location data, encrypted check-in records, and no requirement for account creation—only an email address for emergency contacts.
Should a user neglect to check in for several consecutive days, the app sends an email to their designated contact, notifying them of possible safety concerns. While the iPhone does feature a built-in check-in option, it lacks daily reminders akin to those offered by Demumu. The application is especially beneficial for older individuals living alone, and the creators are pondering a version tailored specifically for the senior demographic. Presently, “Are You Dead?” is unavailable on Android.