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The creators behind the popular Chinese mobile app that asks users to confirm their safety every 48 hours or automatically alerts emergency contacts plan to rename the app before its international launch.
Following an internal review, the app will be rebranded as Demumu in the upcoming version. The development team emphasized that the app will stay true to its core safety mission and continue offering its original services to global users, particularly those living alone.
Developed by a tech startup established last March, the app initially launched at a price of 8 yuan (about $1.14). Due to its relevance to young singles and its provocative name, it quickly gained popularity on Chinese social platforms, climbing to the top of the paid app charts on the App Store for five consecutive days last week.
Remarkably, the app was reportedly built by a small team of only three developers with a budget under 1,500 yuan (approximately $215). Its sudden success attracted investor interest, with the valuation for a 10% stake reaching nearly 10 million yuan (around $1.4 million).
Industry insiders caution that since the app’s functionality is relatively simple and easy to replicate, its longevity and commercial potential might be limited. A seasoned app developer shared that, with just one night and the use of Google’s AI tool Gemini, he could create a similar app, even without manual coding.
Most users appear to download the app mainly for entertainment or memes, and it’s unlikely they’ll stick with it long-term. Larger platforms like WeChat, which already dominate messaging and social communication, could easily incorporate similar safety features, rendering the app less unique.
However, if the team manages to develop innovative features that build emotional bonds with users and stand out from competitors, there’s potential for the app’s lifespan to increase.
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