Gen Z Revives Double Dates as Interest in Authentic Connections Grows

Gen Z is embracing a dating trend that previous generations may remember well—double dates. With traditional dating apps losing their appeal among younger users, new platforms like Fourplay, Doubble, and DuoDate are offering an alternative that emphasizes in-person social connections, safety, and authenticity.

Nick Saris, the founder of DuoDate and a current college student, noticed a growing concern among his peers regarding the risks of online dating. Many young people now bring friends along on dates as a precaution against catfishing or other safety threats – Saris saw this as an opportunity to develop an app that matches two friends with another pair, which is the core gimmick of DuoDate.

Recent data supports this shift in dating preferences. A March 2025 survey from the UK-based dating app Slide1828 found that 48% of Gen Z respondents believe double dates help ease dating anxiety, while over 53% would be open to meeting someone through a double date arrangement. This can mean that a double date is not only safer, but also notable more comfortable for certain types of people.

Gen Z’s approach to dating also reflects a broader cultural shift away from the superficial aspects of online interactions. While older generations often assume younger people are deeply invested in social media, nearly 70% of Slide1828’s respondents expressed indifference toward social media clout. This may hint towards double dates and other forms of alternative in-person dating seeing greater popularity, especially if more apps rise to facilitate them.