The Chinese social app Sileme — which literally translates as “are you dead” — announced on Wednesday that it is inviting the public to submit suggestions for a new Chinese name.
In a post on its official Weibo account, the app’s operator said, “Names are the soul of a product and a bond that connects us with our users. Our previous renaming attempts fell short of expectations, so we have decided to return the naming right to those who understand the app best.”
The operator said the best suggestion will be selected, with the first user to propose the chosen name receiving a 666-yuan ($92) cash red packet. Submissions are open until January 18.
The announcement follows the app’s earlier decision to adopt the global brand name Demumu for its upcoming new version. The move comes after widespread online attention and debate in China over the app’s quirky original name.
Sileme previously drew discussion on social media for its unusual Chinese name, which some users said was a key factor in their decision to download the app. On Xiaohongshu, a Chinese lifestyle platform, users commented that the name sparked curiosity and engagement.
However, other users criticized the name on Weibo, calling it inappropriate and saying it carried unhealthy or negative connotations.
The app’s decision to crowdsource a new Chinese name reflects efforts by technology companies in China to balance brand recognition, user engagement, and public perception.
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