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Why is a Chinese App Asking if You’re Dead?
Reports have surfaced regarding a peculiar feature within a Chinese social media application, where users are prompted with the question, “Are you still alive?” This unsettling query has sparked concern and curiosity, prompting investigations into the app’s functionality and the reasons behind this unusual practice. As of January 17, 2026, the app in question is gaining international attention, raising questions about data privacy and the evolving digital landscape in China.
The App and the Question
The app generating the most discussion is KinSoul, a relatively new platform gaining popularity in China, notably among younger generations. It functions as a virtual pet simulator, allowing users to “raise” a virtual being. However, unlike typical virtual pet games, KinSoul incorporates a unique and somewhat morbid element: the virtual pet can “die” if the user doesn’t regularly interact with the app. The “Are you still alive?” prompt is a feature designed to check on user activity and determine if the virtual pet should be considered “abandoned,” leading to its virtual demise [[1]]
