In a world where swiping left and right has become synonymous with modern romance, it might come as a surprise that dating apps appear to be declining in popularity this year.
Recent studies suggest that instant online gratification and quick hookups are no longer enough, and many individuals looking for love are choosing more traditional, in-person encounters.
But is this really the end of dating apps or are we simply on a break with these digital matchmakers?
Some apps have already begun rebranding
There has been a noticeable shift away from dating apps over the past 12 months, as Ofcom reports a 16% drop in the use of the top 10 most popular dating apps. More specifically:
- Tinder saw over half a million users leave the app since May 2023.
- Bumble lost 368,000 users in the same period
- Even Hinge, the “app designed to be deleted,” experienced a drop of 131,000 users
This shift is highlighted by the recent announcement that Dating App Thursday is shutting down in order to pivot its focus toward hosting in-person dating events.
Its founder explained that while dating apps may once have revolutionised the dating industry, they have also contributed to a sense of fatigue among users. In fact, another survey on the subject found that a staggering 78% of users reported feeling “emotionally, mentally, or physically exhausted” by dating apps.
So, it’s clear that a growing number of people seem to be turning their backs on this once-dominant dating strategy – but why?
The reasons so many are ditching dating apps
Dating apps have lost their romantic allure and is this really a surprise? The endless swiping, ghosting and superficial connections can take their toll on even the most optimistic of daters.
But there’s no denying this is a convenient way to date with thousands of potential matches just a swipe away, so what are some of the other reasons so many are ditching dating apps?
A sense of shallowness
Dating apps have an inherently superficial nature. Photos and bios become the basis for big dating decisions. And let’s face it, we’re all complex individuals who can’t be summed up in a sentence or two – no matter how witty it may be.
So the swiping and judging of photos can feel transactional and hollow, leaving many craving deeper, more meaningful connections.
Daters wanting to prioritise quality over quantity
When it comes to dating, in-person meetings foster a stronger sense of chemistry and authenticity. And sure, this means you can’t have six different conversations at once, but it supports quality time and real conversation rather than multiple shallow or meaningless interactions.
The alternatives to dating apps
As dating apps lose their lustre, we thought we’d take a look at how today’s singles are choosing to meet potential partners instead.
For many, in person dating events like speed dating and singles mixers reflects a renewed interest in meeting people face-to-face. These gatherings offer a more natural way for people to connect and have been on the rise since the lifting of lockdown.
Community and hobby-based groups are also great ways for singles to find love through shared interests by joining clubs, classes or social groups. This could be cooking, running, reading, and so much more.
By putting themselves out there more and regularly visiting coffee shops, parks, and bars or meeting through mutual friends, many are even embracing a return to spontaneity and finding potential partners in everyday life.
Then, of course, there are dating agencies and expert matchmakers like Ignite Dating. For those looking for a more strategic approach, dating agencies and matchmakers can offer a personalised experience with better results.
Is this the beginning of the end for dating apps?
While there’s no denying that the decline in dating app use is significant, it’s unlikely they’ll disappear entirely. Let’s face it, for many, they remain a convenient way to meet people, especially in today’s fast-paced world.
However, it’s clear that app fatigue is increasing and that there is a growing awareness of the limitations of these tools as many look for a more authentic way to connect.
So, if you’ve decided that it’s time to break up with dating apps, we can help you kickstart a more rewarding dating journey this year. Get in touch with our matchmakers today to begin making genuine connections.
