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As people look for ways to make new friends, here are the apps promising to help
Amid rising loneliness and social isolation, apps like Bumble BFF, Meet5, and Timeleft are helping people seek platonic friendships. With over $16 million spent this year, these apps offer various features to foster connections, particularly for remote workers and younger individuals. They encourage social interactions in less intimidating ways, marking a significant shift in how friendships are formed online.
Key points
- Loneliness is labeled a public health crisis by the U.S. Surgeon General in 2023.
- Remote workers and younger people are particularly affected, seeking meaningful friendships.
- The stigma of forming connections online has diminished, leading to growth in friendship-focused apps.
- Over 12 local-focused apps generated $16 million in consumer spending in 2023.
- Examples include Bumble BFF, Timeleft, and Meet5, which have together achieved 4.3 million downloads in 2025.
- Apps are designed to ease the awkwardness of meeting new people by clarifying that all users are there for friendship.
Why it matters
- This trend echoes the rise of social media platforms that prioritize connections beyond dating.
- In 2025, the IT landscape continues evolving with AI-driven matchmaking and personalized experiences in apps.
- Growing concern for mental health has led to increased interest in digital platforms fostering real-life friendships.
- The market for social networking apps is mirrored in other health-related digital solutions.
The increasing adoption of friendship-focused apps reflects a societal shift towards addressing loneliness and enhancing social connections, a response to both modern work-life changes and growing mental health awareness.