Summary
An app in China called "Are You Dead?" became popular by asking users to check in daily to show they are alive. If they don't, an alert goes to an emergency contact. This trend reflects a broader pattern of using technology to address loneliness, which is becoming more common as more people live alone.
Key Facts
- The app "Are You Dead?" alerts an emergency contact if a user doesn't check-in for 48 hours.
- The app is popular in China, where almost 20% of people live alone.
- In the U.S., loneliness is considered a public health concern.
- Technology, like AI companions and dating apps, is being used to combat loneliness.
- In 2023, 30% of U.S. adults had used a dating app or site.
- Political thinkers link loneliness to potential political instability.
