Are You Dead App: Why is this unique app going viral among young people living alone? Learn how it works..

Amidst the glitz and glamour of big cities, those living alone are constantly haunted by the fear of what would happen if something were to befall them – who would even know? To address this fear, an app with a peculiar name, "Are You Dead," is currently making waves in China. This app has brought the growing loneliness and safety concerns among people in big cities to the forefront of public discussion.

What is the concept behind this app?
The app's functionality is very simple yet effective. Users of the app have to open it and press a large button once every two days. This button confirms that the user is safe and alive. If the user fails to press the button for two consecutive days, the app automatically calls or messages the emergency contact (such as parents or friends) chosen by the user, informing them that the user might be in trouble.

An app that helps those living alone

The number of people living alone in China is increasing rapidly. According to a report, the number of people living alone in China could exceed 200 million by 2030.  Therefore, this app is being considered very helpful for those living alone or away from their families. This app is designed keeping in mind office workers living alone, students studying away from home, introverts, and people struggling with depression.

A useful app, but the name is causing controversy

The app's name, "Si-le-ma" (Are you dead?), is based on the name of China's famous food delivery app "E-le-ma" (Are you hungry?). However, many people consider this name inauspicious. In light of the criticism, the app's developer, Moonscape Technologies, is now considering changing the name to "Are you ok?" or "How are you?".

This app was created for just 12,000 rupees.

Surprisingly, this super-successful app was created by a small team of three young people from Generation Z (born after 1995) in Zhengzhou city. It cost only 1,000 yuan (approximately 12,000 Indian rupees) to develop. Today, it has become China's most downloaded paid app, and its valuation has reached millions. Internationally, it is known as 'Demumu' and has become one of the top-paid utility apps in countries like the US, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, and Spain. The app costs only 8 yuan (approximately $1) to download.

The company is to launch a separate version for the elderly

Following its success among young people, the company is now planning to launch a special version of the app for the elderly. More than 20% of China's population is over 60 years old, many of whom live alone. The company says it wants to help this segment of society that is often overlooked.