China’s Hottest App Is a Daily Test of Whether You’re Still Alive
WIRED • • business
Key Points:
- The indie app "Are You Dead Yet" (死了吗) has surged in popularity in China by asking users to tap a button daily, alerting an emergency contact if they fail to check in for two consecutive days, combining practical safety with dark humor.
- Developed by three Gen-Z creators led by Guo, the app aligns with fundamental safety needs and has become the top paid app in China's Apple App Store without paid advertising, attracting interest from over 60 investors offering substantial funding.
- Initially priced at 1 RMB, the app's cost was raised to 8 RMB amid its viral success, with revenue earmarked for long-term platform development; it resonates especially with the growing demographic of young people living alone in China.
- The developers plan
