Friendship Apps Face Dating App Challenges as Ghosting Persists

Friendship apps are gaining popularity as more people turn to digital platforms to meet new friends. Bumble reports an 80% year-on-year increase in weekly BFF users, while services such as Timeleft, 222 and Sonder are introducing new ways to bring people together.

Despite growing interest, friendship apps face many of the same challenges as dating platforms. Users report ghosting, mismatched expectations, and difficulties developing lasting friendships. Some encounter people seeking romantic connections, while others struggle to maintain contact after initial meetings. Researchers have also questioned whether matching-based business models encourage continued app use.

Bumble BFF, launched in 2016, has expanded beyond its original swipe-based matching model. Its newer features include Groups, which connect people through shared interests, and events designed to encourage face-to-face meetings.

Timeleft organises dinners, drinks and other social activities for groups of strangers. Participants complete a questionnaire, and the platform arranges gatherings based on their interests and preferences. Timeleft says it has attracted more than four million users across over 200 cities in 52 countries.

222 matches groups of six strangers for organised dinners using a personality questionnaire. Participants can then join a larger gathering at a second venue. The company says it operates in 21 cities and has arranged experiences for more than 100,000 members.

Sonder uses visual moodboards featuring photos, music and interests to help people connect. Users can also organise and join local activities, including walks, workshops and game nights, and invite friends through shared links.

Source: Washington Post