Have you ever had the burning desire to be able to announce your death to your Facebook friends? If you die, wouldn’t you like to broadcast one final message to all your friends and family?
Well, if this sounds like something you’d be into, look no further than the new Facebook app ifidie (If I Die). Too bad you won’t be around to see who “liked” your death video.
From the app’s site:
What will happen to your Facebook after your passing? ‘If i Die’ is a new Facebook application that enables you to create a video or a text message that will be published on your wall upon your death. It could be your life story, a secret you haven’t shared before or even a will.
Or it could be a giant screw you to everyone you wanted to tell off in your life but didn’t have the guts to confront. Or it could be a heartfelt goodbye to friends and family, asking them to remember the good things about you and to always cherish your relationship. See? This could really go both ways.
Here’s what you do to use ifidie: First, install the app through the site or Facebook. Second, create a video message with your webcam or a text message if you are camera shy, even in death. And lastly, choose three “trustees” from your friends on Facebook. Your death message will only be posted to your wall after these three friends confirm your death. No word on what happens if your trustees die before they can confirm your death.
Here’s a video demonstrating the not-so-pleasant messages one could leave for their “loved ones.”
The developers, Israeli based startup Willook, are working on the premise that you never know when you could die, and you better leave something behind before its too late. At least that’s what their advertising campaign has been about.
@IFiWillDie
IF i Die App@ITSMINEiD stop smoking and go to http://apps.facebook.com/if_i_die/ before it’s too late. #ifidie
38 days ago via web · powered by @socialditto
Here’s another video about a marketing campaign that the developers staged, where they used various location-based services to track real people, call them, and tell them that death can happen anywhere, anytime:
So let’s say you record your message, tragically die very suddenly, and your video is posted to all your friends. I’m sure most videos will be filled with bitterness, sarcasm and spitefulness love, faith and dignity by the way. After everyone has seen your message, what happens to your Facebook account?
Back in 2009, Facebook actually set up a system for dealing with profiles of the deceased. Survivors of the deceased can contact Facebook through an online form and request that they page their profile page a “memorialized” profile. This way, friends can use the page to pay tribute to their loved ones. The “memorialized” profiles are designated as super private and are removed from search results and suggestions.
Oh, so that’s how you get in contact with Facebook. You have to die first. (It’s hard to get in touch with the company, just ask David Fagin)
But all (most) kidding aside, do you believe this app could serve a positive purpose? Is it all just too creepy for you? Tell us what you think.
Hat tip to TNW.