Isolated Chinese Youth Embrace a New App Wondering: 'Are You Still Alive?'
A recent mobile app is sweeping across China, catching the attention of the country's younger population. The app, aptly named "Are You Dead?", provides a straightforward check-in system for individuals living alone in distant cities.
The app operates on a simple premise. A user taps a large green button on their phone screen, sending a 'proof of life' signal to a selected contact. The cost for this peace of mind? Only 8 yuan, roughly equivalent to $1.10.
The concept is quite similar to the emergency alert systems used by the elderly in the United States, where a button is pressed during a crisis. This digital iteration, however, is primarily utilized by young adults leading solitary lives in bustling cities.
A Rising Star in the Digital World
Designed by three young adults, "Are You Dead?" quickly rose to fame, becoming the most downloaded paid app in China within a short time. From there, its popularity has spread across the globe, with significant downloads in countries such as the Netherlands, Britain, India, Singapore, and the United States. This global reach echoes the developers' belief that feelings of isolation and safety concerns are universal, regardless of nationality.
The developers' inspiration for the app came from their own experiences. One of the creators, 29-year-old Ian Lü, spent five years living alone in Shenzhen. He found the need for a simple, non-intrusive check-in system, particularly among introverted individuals who may not reach out to others daily.
Reflecting Modern Chinese Society
The app's success can be attributed to the rapidly changing nature of Chinese society. In the past, Chinese families typically lived together or nearby, but this has drastically changed due to urbanization and economic growth. Millions of Chinese people have relocated to big cities, leaving their families behind and creating a sense of internal diaspora.
As a result, over 100 million Chinese households consist of just one person, as per an annual statistical report in 2024. This societal shift has created a significant market for the "Are You Dead?" app.
Chen Xingyu, a 32-year-old woman living alone in Kunming, finds the app's concept appealing. However, she expresses her concerns about data security, particularly for female users.
Meanwhile, Shanghai-based designer Yuan Sangsang uses the app to reassure her relatives that she's safe. "I just don't want to die with no dignity, like the body gets rotten and smelly before it is found," said Yuan, who has been living alone for ten years.
A Symbol of Modern Angst?
Interestingly, the app seems to resonate more with younger people than with the elderly. It serves as a twisted form of social media check-in, providing a sense of connection and care between isolated individuals.
The app's immense popularity serves as a stark reminder of the living conditions and emotional state of contemporary youth. It's not just about safety; users are looking for a sense of recognition and understanding.
A Controversial Name Change
Despite its popularity, the app's name has stirred some controversy due to cultural taboos surrounding death in Chinese culture. This led to the developers considering a name change. They initially proposed "Demumu" as a new title, hoping it would appeal to solo dwellers worldwide.
However, the new name's reception was not as positive as expected. The developers have now turned to their user base for suggestions, promising a reward for the chosen name. Over 10,000 people have already submitted their ideas, with the winning suggestion receiving 666 yuan, approximately $96.