Trends of Dating Apps: What’s The New Catch?
The dating app market has experienced a rapid surge as singles seek instant access to potential love connections, and it's not showing any signs of slowing down soon. The market now includes popular names such as Tinder, Bumble, and eharmony, among many others. Changes in the global meet-up scene has now pushed the development of digital trends in dating which offer a wide range of convenience and flexibility to its users.
Yash Bhavsar, Global CMO at eharmony, says— “In 2020, we are seeing a 9X increase in customer acquisition, and we have noticed a complete disruption of older dating models and platforms— users are more keen on and comfortable with using the ‘swipe life’ model instead. This trend has prospered multiple opportunities for the tech industry, allowing it to create apps that are both specialized to the user’s needs, easy to use, and secure.”
A recent survey conducted by Forbes also reported that in the U.S. alone, more than 25 million people used a successful dating app at least once a month in 2019. Of those, 21.9 million were male and 23.1 million were female users. Consequently, this has seen an extensive proliferation and adaptation of e-platforms which offer convenient way of meeting potential partners for singles worldwide. As such, a very innovative generation of applications have been developed, breaking away from the traditional notion that relationships have to be formed in physical interactions.
The popularity of niche apps such as Pickable, 3Fun, and GRINDR have experienced a spike. These are specialized apps catering to different types of users, like those who look for non-sexualhookups, those who practice polyamory, those seeking a serious relationship, and LGBT+ singles. They create a safe environment which gives users the freedom to choose their right fit and anonymously date.
John Bussel, notable Education Expert & Professional Researcher, observes— “While it was first assumed that the traditional model of meeting people in person seemed to be preferred, it has now become quite normal for adults to use dating apps as the primary method of finding a connection. The ease and accessibility of these platforms have created a shift in consumer behaviour.”
Rebook.com a notable online clothing provider, leveraged this increasing trend by launching their online dating agency, Rebook. Date. The program allows users, both singles and couples, to browse, discover, and shop for style outfits as stipulated for various ‘ideal – date’ scenarios. These may range from movie night, weekend fishing, office-date fashion to any other engagement the user desires. This creative approach to fashion models, while also helping individuals find the date that best suits them.
As technology continues to evolve, virtual dating is expected to gain further ground; estimates project that the global online market’s revenue is expected to reach $4,845.3 million by 2024. As such the future of online dating looks quite positive and with the right blend of intelligence and innovation, the industry can become even more efficient for its user
Price Differences and Differences in User-Experience
When it comes to the pricing of dating apps, the differences can be quite drastic. On one end, some apps are free for users, while others offer premium versions to access more exclusive features and better user-experience.
Of all the apps on the market, each app must work to stand out from the others and create its own brand. This is why each application changes its interface and design in order to make sure users get a unique experience with their product.
For instance, Tinder allows users to ‘swipe’ through potential matches, while on Bumble, potential matches can only make contact if the female user initiates it.
Another example is the app ‘Grindr’, which is specifically geared towards the LGBTQ+ community, and focuses on queer people connecting with each other.
Swipe Dating Model and its Advantages to Gen Z
The swipe dating model is a relatively new concept which has been popularized by applications such as Tinder and Bumble. This model works by allowing users to go through potential matches quickly, and swipe right if one is interested in a person, and left if one is not.
This model has been embraced by a majority of Generation Z, and is seen as a unique way of connecting people to each other. The YPulse survey shows that out of 5,000 GenZ respondents, 74% of them felt that these dating apps helped them meet new people in a more efficient way than other dating models.
Communities Created By Dating Apps
With the surge of dating apps, it has become easier to connect with people from different walks of life. This has allowed people to create strong communities which bring together people of similar interests, personalities and backgrounds.
One example of such is the 'Tinder Ball' which is a popular event held in cities like San Francisco, Amsterdam and London. This event, which has gained enormous traction in the UK, is an unofficial Tinder gathering which provides singles, an opportunity to meet and socialize with other members of the community.
This event is a great example of how the rise in popularity of dating apps has resulted in more connections and diverse communities.
Catering To Different Niches And Requirements
The popularity of dating apps has given way to the creation of different apps catering to different needs and requirements of the users.
For instance, some apps focus on helping users to find a soulmate, while others may focus on helping users find friends or simpler connections. There are even apps which cater to the needs of queer individuals, such as the app ‘Grinndr’.
This flexible approach to match-making has opened the gates for people who were otherwise unaware of alternative methods of dating, as traditional methods may not have been available to them.
Increase In Virtual Dates
The current pandemic has made it more difficult for singles to meet potential partners in person. As such, there has been an increase in the number of virtual dates that are taking place, driven largely by the increasing popularity of dating apps.
According to a survey conducted by the Global Web Index (GWI), it was found that 22% of people between ages 18-24, had gone on a virtual date in 2020.
This indicates that individuals have started to become more comfortable with the idea of virtual communication, as it has become a part of the new normal, and is expected to continue to grow in the future.
Security Risks and Online Harassment
Being on a dating app can leave you vulnerable to online harassment. According to a survey conducted by YouGov, it was found that out of 1,955 adults, 17% of them had experienced some form of online harassment.
This is an alarming statistic, as it displays how important it is to take necessary precautions when using dating apps and be aware of criminals who misuse the platforms.
Furthermore, users should also know their boundaries and be aware of anyone who uses an overly flirtatious or coercive language, or anything of that nature.
In order to tackle this issue, some apps have implemented additional security measures such as limited profile visibility, geo-tracking and blocking facility.