Sniffies Launches Gay Hookup iOS App
Sniffies, a map-based gay cruising platform, has officially launched its long-awaited iPhone app, marking a significant expansion from its web-based origins. Unlike traditional dating apps, Sniffies operates through an interactive map, allowing users to see nearby members as discreet, anonymous icons. The new app maintains the site’s real-time, location-based interface but comes with some adjustments to comply with Apple’s App Store guidelines – and is currently only available in the US and Canada.
Unlike the web version, which only requires a birth year for access, the iOS app mandates users to create a profile with a common email provider, such as Gmail or Yahoo. Additionally, when first opened, the app defaults to “Vanilla Mode,” which filters out explicit content. Users who want full access must manually enable it through the website before being redirected back to the app. These changes were necessary to meet Apple’s content restrictions, which prohibit “overtly sexual” material.
Eli Martin, Sniffies’ chief marketing officer, acknowledged the challenges of bringing the platform to the App Store, stating, “There was certainly back-and-forth with the App Store and figuring out how to make it work on both ends. It took way longer than we thought, but it seems like Apple was very open to us being a part of the store as long as we could meet the guidelines.”
The company sees this move as a significant milestone in expanding access to its user base. “Sniffies has always been about breaking barriers and making real-time connections easier,” said CEO Blake Gallagher. “With the iOS app, we’re giving our Cruisers an even more seamless way to explore, connect, and play – wherever they are.”
Having originally launched in 2018, Sniffies has been a fairly popular platform for gay, bisexual and bicurious hookups. While still notably smaller than giants like Grindr, the platform having a dedicated app could be the first step towards it becoming a more accessible alternative to conventional dating platforms.
