‘If I Die’ Facebook app lets users compose final words in advance

Derek K. Miller captured the hearts of Canadians with his final words back in May, 2011, when his courageous battle with colorectal cancer came to a tragic end. The seasoned blogger from B.C., who maintained a loyal following with detailed reports of his treatment, had prepared for the worst as his battle had proven difficult.

With his final request, he had asked his family to publish "The Last Post", Miller's final words that would allow him to notify his readers of his passing. The post went viral on the same day it was published, and the concept of entrusting loved ones with publishing your final words online appeared to take flight.

The "If I Die" Facebook app allows users to follow in Miller's footsteps, only the personal blog venue is replaced by the popular social media website.

"Users simply install the app, record either a five minute video or a text post, and assign three good friends to act as 'trustees,'" explains Jonathan Fincher in a Gizmag blog. "In the event of a person's passing, the three trustees must confirm the death with the app before the message is posted."

Check out the video below:

This is certainly not your typical Facebook app, but as Fincher explains, it "might be a useful service to give some people a little peace of mind - the terminally ill, for example. Willook (the Israeli based developers) suggests leaving behind a final farewell, a long-held secret, or even one last insult, depending on a person's preference."

"The developer is very clear that no one, not even anyone at the company, can see the messages that users create until their death is verified."

The "If I Die" app is sure to generate a polarizing response among Facebook users. Let us know what you think in the comments below.

(Screengrab Gizmag)