In 2020, when COVID-19 hit and basically ground the world to a halt, it changed how we do things. We aren’t going to get into the lives lost during the pandemic, as that’s not our area, but we don’t want to dismiss it either; millions died, and people are still suffering from long COVID.
Not only was it deadly, but it also dramatically altered a few areas of life, like school, work, and our social and dating lives. And those changes have stuck, especially when it pertains to online dating.
During the height of the pandemic, online dating apps saw a 45% increase in usage—even if everything else was on lockdown, looking for love was not.
COVID-19 has brought with it lasting changes in the online dating world, changing user behavior, technology, and the entire dating culture.
While COVID is still here, we are past the pandemic stage, so we wanted to explore how the shift to digital interactions has changed the way people connect and communicate. We’ll get into the new features and tools that dating apps introduced to adapt to the new “normal.” We’ll also examine the evolution of what people look for in romantic relationships and how dating priorities have shifted. Additionally, we’ll see how social media has become an integral part of the online dating experience, the new challenges that have emerged in the online dating world and the criticisms that came with them, and see what the future holds for online dating as we continue to mix digital and real-life interactions!
The Surge in Online Dating During the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic caused a huge shift in how people connect and date. With social distancing and lockdowns in place, the usual ways of meeting potential partners were no longer viable. This sudden change meant people were looking for other ways to connect—and that led to the uptick in online dating.
Initial Impact
When the pandemic hit, social interactions suffered a massive blow—they all but stopped. Lockdowns and 12 feet of social distancing meant regular dating methods went bye-bye. Online dating apps saw a huge spike in activity as people sought out connection in a locked-down world.
In March 2020, Tinder experienced a record-breaking 3 billion swipes in a single day; Bumble saw a 70% increase in video calls, and OkCupid reported a staggering 700% increase in dates from March to May 2020. These stats spotlight how online dating became an important tool for being social during the pandemic.
Adaptation by Dating Apps
The top dating apps quickly adapted to the new “normal” by introducing features like virtual dating options to keep the connections happening even from a distance.
- Bumble launched a virtual dating badge to indicate users were open to video dates.
- Tinder rolled out a video chat feature to keep the conversation going past texting.
- OkCupid and other platforms also added prompts and questions related to COVID-19 preferences, like vaccine status, to help users navigate dating in the safest way for them.
Permanent Changes in User Behavior
The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally altered how people engage with online dating, altering behaviors and expectations in ways that are likely to continue. As conventional social interactions became restricted, a lot of people turned to virtual platforms to fill the gap, leading to significant changes in how people date and connect online.
Pivot to Virtual Dating
With in-person meetings off the table due to lockdowns and social distancing measures, virtual dating became the norm. This change wasn’t only a temporary adjustment—it was a fundamental change in dating culture. People adapted quickly, using video calls and other virtual tools to sustain their social lives and romantic pursuits.
Before the pandemic, the typical sequence of online dating was to swipe, exchange text messages, and then meet in person. However, this pattern shifted considerably. Now, after swiping and texting, the next step often involves a video date. This adaptation allowed people to build connections without the immediate need for physical presence, promoting more thoughtful and intentional communication.
For example:Bumble reported a 70% increase in video calls during the pandemic. Tinder also saw a surge in activity, with a record-breaking 3 billion swipes in a single day in March 2020. These statistics underscore how quickly and broadly users embraced virtual dating tools to keep their romantic lives active despite physical restrictions.
Virtual dates have taken on various forms, from casual video chats over coffee to more structured activities like cooking the same meal together, streaming movies simultaneously, or even taking virtual walks and sharing photos. These creative approaches to virtual dating helped support a sense of normalcy and connection during an otherwise isolating time.
This shift to virtual dating wasn’t just about convenience but also about safety. Many daters prioritized health by discussing COVID-19 precautions and vaccination statuses on their profiles and during initial conversations. This trend accentuates a new layer of consideration and communication that has become integral to the dating process.
Moreover, virtual dating offers several advantages that might ensure its persistence post-pandemic. For busy individuals, it provides a time-efficient way to meet new people without the need for extensive travel or scheduling. It also offers a safer and less intimidating environment for those anxious about meeting strangers in person. Virtual dates allow people to gauge compatibility before committing to an in-person meeting, potentially reducing the number of awkward or uncomfortable first dates.
The pandemic fundamentally changed how we connect with others, especially in the world of online dating. With face-to-face meetings off the table, people turned to their screens to keep the conversation going. This shift has led to users spending way more time chatting before deciding to meet in person.
More Time Chatting
As lockdowns and social distancing dragged on, the initial stages of dating saw a heavy emphasis on messaging. Users spent extended periods getting to know potential partners through texts and video calls. For instance:
- Tinder reported a 42% increase in matches and an 11% increase in swipes during 2020, indicating more user engagement on the platform.
- Similarly, Bumble noted a 70% increase in video calls, reflecting how users adapted to the new normal of virtual interaction.
- OkCupid observed a 7% increase in new conversations from March to May 2020, accentuating how the pandemic spurred better online engagement.
These extended chat sessions allowed users to build a connection and establish comfort before they considered IRL meetings.
User Testimonials
A lot of dating app users have shared that the increased communication time has led to more meaningful interactions.
Jane, a 29-year-old from New York, said, “I found myself having long, good conversations over video calls, which made me feel more connected to the person before we even met.”
Tom, a 35-year-old from Los Angeles, echoed this sentiment: “The longer messaging period allowed me to get to know someone better so that when we did eventually meet, it felt like we already knew each other pretty well!”
Focus on Genuine Connections
The pandemic also did something to dating priorities—a large number of users are now looking for more meaningful connections instead of casual encounters and situationships. The long period of isolation and introspection meant people were reassessing what they really wanted from their romantic relationships.
Studies indicate that users are now more focused on building genuine connections. According to Match.com’s 2021 Singles in America study, over 50% of respondents said they wanted long-term relationships with honest partners.
This trend towards “intentional dating” accentuates a shift away from the quick hookups that have been associated with dating apps.
Research from the Kinsey Institute also supports this change, noting that virtual dating tools were used more frequently to form stronger relationships rather than casual flings during the pandemic. Users are prioritizing emotional connections and meaningful conversations, making the initial messaging phase super important for establishing a strong foundation.
Surveys and Data
Surveys conducted during the pandemic showed a clear preference for meaningful interactions—users reported spending more time on dating apps, engaging in longer conversations, and looking for romantic partners who had similar values and goals. This trend has continued as people have grown accustomed to the benefits of taking things slow and building connections gradually (aka slow dating).
Technological Advancements and Innovations
The COVID-19 pandemic forced almost every dating app to adapt (and do it quickly), integrating new features and improving existing technologies to meet the changing needs of users. As people sought safe ways to connect and build relationships, dating platforms added virtual dating features, improved their AI and algorithms, and introduced new safety measures to build trust and security in the digital dating world.
Virtual Dating Features
Because the pandemic made in-person meetings hard or impossible, dating apps introduced and expanded virtual dating features to help users support connections. These features became necessary tools for building relationships in a socially distanced society.
Dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge were at the front of the queue, implementing video chat options to facilitate face-to-face interactions without physical presence.
Tinder rolled out its “Face to Face” video chat feature, allowing users to have one-on-one video calls directly within the app. This feature was designed to mimic real-life interactions as closely as possible, providing more of a personal touch to online dating.
Bumble, known for its women-first messaging approach, also introduced video call and voice call features. These options allowed users to have virtual dates, helping to build a sense of connection before meeting in person. Adding a virtual dating badge in profiles showed users who were open to virtual dates, making it easier to find compatible matches.
Hinge, which is referred to as the “relationship app,” integrated video chat into its platform. The app encouraged users to have video dates to gauge compatibility and chemistry. It also provided prompts and suggestions for virtual date activities, like cooking the same recipe or watching a movie together.
Statistics from the pandemic period show the rapid adoption of these virtual dating features. Bumble reported a 70% increase in video calls, while OkCupid saw a 700% rise in dates conducted via their platform. These numbers underscore the importance of virtual dating in preserving romantic connections during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
AI and Algorithm Improvements
Artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced algorithms have always been involved in online dating, helping match users based on compatibility and preferences. During the pandemic, dating apps further refined these technologies to better cater to users’ changing needs and expectations.
The use of AI in dating apps involves complex algorithms that analyze user data, preferences, and behavior to suggest potential matches. These algorithms have become much more sophisticated, incorporating machine learning techniques to continuously improve their accuracy. Dating apps now consider not just profile info but also user interactions, messaging patterns, and feedback to make more personalized match recommendations.
One notable advancement is the integration of AI to improve conversation starters and icebreakers. Apps like Hinge have developed features that suggest personalized prompts based on users’ profiles and interests, making it easier for users to start convos. These AI-driven prompts help break the ice and create better connections from the outset.
Additionally, dating apps have employed AI to improve user experience by identifying and eliminating fake profiles and bots, which means a safer and more genuine dating environment. For instance, Tinder’s AI algorithms can detect suspicious activity and flag potential fake accounts, reducing the prevalence of scams and improving user trust.
Better Safety Measures
Safety has always been a prime concern for dating apps, but the pandemic heightened awareness and demand for stronger safety features. In response, some dating apps introduced new measures to protect users and provide a safer dating space.
One development is the introduction of background checks and safety centers. Apps like Tinder and Bumble partnered with third-party organizations to offer background check services, allowing users to verify the criminal history of potential matches. These checks provide added security, helping users feel a little more confident about their interactions.
Tinder’s partnership with Garbo, a nonprofit background check platform, allows users to access public records and reports on their matches. This initiative aims to empower users with information to make informed decisions about their safety.
Bumble also launched a Safety Center within the app, providing resources and tips on safe online dating practices. The Safety Center includes guidelines on recognizing and reporting suspicious behavior, setting boundaries, and protecting personal information. Bumble’s “Private Detector” feature uses AI to detect and blur unsolicited nude images, giving users control over their experience and decreasing harassment.
Hinge implemented similar measures, with a focus on promoting respectful interactions. The app introduced a “We Met” feature, allowing users to provide feedback on their dates, which helps improve future match recommendations and address any safety concerns.
These improved safety measures show the growing importance of user security and well-being in the online dating landscape. By leveraging technology and partnerships, dating apps have made notable strides in creating safer and more trustworthy platforms.
Changing Cultural Norms and Expectations
The COVID-19 pandemic has also altered cultural norms and expectations in the realm of online dating. As people adapted to new ways of connecting, several notable trends emerged that are likely to have lasting effects.
Normalization of Virtual Dates
Once considered an odd novelty, virtual dates have become an accepted and even preferred way for some to connect. With the inability to meet in person, a few dating apps hopped on it and introduced and promoted video dating features. This change meant users could preserve social connections while adhering to the pandemic safety protocols.
As we noted above, Bumble saw a 70% increase in video calls during the pandemic, and Tinder reported a remarkable rise in user engagement through virtual dating options. These features provided a way for people to “meet” and get to know each other without the immediate need for physical proximity.
A lot of users have welcomed virtual dating as a viable alternative—stories from daters illustrate how these virtual interactions often turned into strong connections.
For example, couples reported engaging in fun and creative activities like playing games together on video call, binge watching a series together, or even working out while on a video chat.
Emphasis on Health and Safety
The pandemic also brought health and safety to the convos happening in the dating app DMs. Talking about COVID-19 precautions became the main topic, and many dating app profiles now include info about vaccine status and personal safety practices.
Public health experts weighed in and supported this trend, stressing the importance of finding romantic partners who share common perceptions of risk. A study from Johns Hopkins University suggested that those who discuss their comfort levels and safety practices before meeting in person avoid misunderstandings and guarantee mutual safety.
This move towards health-conscious dating has also led to the creation of new etiquette norms—some daters now include questions (in their first chats) about the following and or have a vaccination status badge on their dating profile.
- Recent exposures
- Travel history
- Vaccination status
These discussions build trust and guarantee that both parties feel comfortable and safe during in-person interactions.
Redefining First Dates
The concept of a first date changed during the pandemic. Usually, first dates mean meeting at a café or restaurant, but virtual first dates have opened up new possibilities. Virtual dating has allowed for more creative and fun experiences that can be tailored to individual preferences and comfort levels.
Popular virtual first date ideas include virtual museum tours, where couples can explore exhibits together online or take online classes like cooking or crafting. These activities are a shared experience and do the heavy lifting when breaking the ice fun and engagingly.
Additionally, the pandemic has encouraged people to take the time to get to know each other before meeting IRL. This slower pace has led to more meaningful conversations and a focus on building a strong emotional connection. Users have reported that spending more time chatting and engaging in virtual activities helped them feel more confident and comfortable when they finally decided to meet face-to-face.
The pandemic has driven big changes in the cultural norms and expectations surrounding online dating. The normalization of virtual dates, increased emphasis on health and safety, and the redefinition of first dates are all trends that have reshaped how people connect and build relationships. These changes have stuck around, influencing dating in a post-pandemic world.
The Role of Social Media and Community Building
The integration of social media with dating apps and the rise of online communities have profoundly impacted how people connect, get advice, and support each other in the online dating world. These changes have been a boon for a more interconnected and supportive user environment!
Integration with Social Media
Dating apps have increasingly integrated social media features to elevate user experience and authenticity. By allowing users to link their social media profiles, apps provide a more comprehensive and trustworthy user profile. Almost all mainstream dating apps let you link to at least one social media account, and that’s usually Instagram.
Tinder and Bumble enable users to connect both their IG and Spotify accounts, sharing photos and music preferences directly on their dating profiles.
This not only complements profiles with bonus content but also helps in verifying user identities, thereby cutting back on the prevalence of fake profiles and catfishers and increasing trust among user bases.
This integration extends to features like mutual friends and activity sharing—some apps display mutual friends between potential matches, leveraging existing social connections to promote trust and encourage interactions.
Online Communities
The prevalence of online communities and forums for dating advice and support has given users a ton of great resources and a sense of community! Platforms like Reddit and Facebook host numerous dating communities where users can ask for advice, share their experiences, and support each other throughout their dating journeys.
- Reddit communities like r/dating_advice and r/relationships have become really popular spots for users to ask questions and swap stories about their dating experiences. These communities offer a wealth of collective knowledge and support, helping users navigate the complexities of online dating.
- Similarly, Facebook groups dedicated to dating advice and discussions are a place for users to connect and engage with others facing similar challenges.
These online communities are not limited to text-based interactions, no way! Dating apps know how valuable these are and have incorporated community-building features and blogs with dating advice within their platforms. And Bumble took it a step further with its sister apps, Bumble BFF and Bumble Bizz, which focus on building friendships and professional connections. These features show the broader social potential of dating apps beyond romantic relationships.
The integration of social media and the rising trend of online communities have really improved the online dating experience. By linking dating profiles with social media accounts and promoting supportive online communities, dating apps have created a more interconnected and engaging space for singles.
Challenges and Criticisms
The pandemic has undoubtedly reformed online dating, but not without a few challenges and criticisms. From the phenomenon of Zoom fatigue to privacy concerns and inequality in access to technology, these issues illustrate some of the possible issues some may have with virtual dating in a post-pandemic world.
Zoom Fatigue
Zoom fatigue, a viral term during the pandemic, is the exhaustion and burnout associated wth prolonged use of video conferencing platforms. Because most people were working from home, business meetings and work interactions took place on Zoom (or Google Meet, but you get the point—video call apps), which also impacted virtual dating. Video dates, at first a novel way to connect, started to feel draining for users. Because after being on a work Zoom call for an hour, who wants to do another one? We get it!
One major cause of Zoom fatigue is the increased cognitive load required during video calls. Unlike in-person interactions, where non-verbal cues and body language are apparent, video calls necessitate more conscious effort to interpret these signals. This increased effort can quickly turn into mental exhaustion, and the lack of physical movement and the constant self-monitoring due to seeing one’s own image on screen add to this fatigue.
User experiences have shown that this is a challenge—some reported feeling more anxious and less engaged during video dates compared to in-person meetings. A Stanford study found that frequent and prolonged video conferencing could decrease feelings of social connection and increase fatigue, ultimately limiting meaningful engagement during virtual interactions.
To mitigate Zoom fatigue, experts suggest taking regular breaks, minimizing multitasking, and opting for regular phone calls instead of video calls. These strategies can lessen the cognitive load and make virtual interactions more sustainable.
Privacy Concerns
As online interactions ramped up during the pandemic, so did privacy and data security concerns. Dating apps, which require users to share their personal info, became a focal point for these concerns. Incidents of data breaches and unauthorized data sharing have honed in on the inherent vulnerabilities in these platforms.
The Zoom platform faced intense scrutiny over security issues early in the pandemic, which raised bigger concerns about the safety of personal information shared during virtual dates. Additionally, linking social media profiles to dating apps while improving authenticity also opens up more avenues for potential privacy breaches.
Studies have shown that users increasingly worry about how their data is used and shared. The fear of exposing or misusing sensitive info can deter people from fully engaging with online dating platforms. To address these concerns, dating apps have implemented stronger security measures, like two-factor authentication and improved encryption. However, the balance between user convenience and strong security remains a delicate one—it was before COVID-19, and it is still now.
Inequality in Access
Not everyone has the same access to the technology needed for virtual dating, exacerbating existing inequalities. The digital divide—disparities in access to high-speed internet and modern devices—means that some people are at a disadvantage when it comes to taking part in online dating.
Reliable internet access and up-to-date technology could be limited for those in lower-income households or rural areas. This lack of access can hinder their ability to engage in virtual dates or even use dating apps successfully. The pandemic called attention to these disparities, making it clear that while online dating is a great way to connect, it is not equally accessible to everyone.
Moreover, individuals with disabilities can face additional challenges in navigating dating apps that are not designed with accessibility in mind. Making sure that online dating platforms are inclusive and accessible to all users is a critical step in addressing these inequalities.
Efforts to bridge this digital divide include initiatives to provide affordable internet access and technological education. By improving access to the necessary tools and resources, more people can enjoy the virtual dating scene and do so on equal footing.
The pandemic has pushed online dating into new territories, bringing to light several challenges and criticisms. Zoom fatigue, privacy concerns, and inequality in access are important issues that should be addressed to create a more inclusive and secure online dating environment. By recognizing and tackling these challenges, we can improve everyone’s virtual dating experience!
Future Prospects
As online dating continues to evolve, we expect even more changes and advancements that redefine how we connect and form romantic relationships in the digital age. These changes are set to improve the user experience, making online dating more flexible, meaningful, and secure!
Hybrid Dating Models
With the growing popularity of virtual interactions, hybrid dating models that combine virtual and in-person elements are expected to grow. These models will allow users to start relationships online and transition to face-to-face meetings when they are comfortable doing so.
- Prediction: The future of dating will likely see a mix of virtual and in-person interactions, creating hybrid dating models that offer both flexibility and convenience.
- Example: Dating apps like Flirtual and Nevermet help users plan virtual dates, like video coffee chats or virtual museum tours, and then suggest local spots for in-person meetings. This approach guarantees that connections can keep growing regardless of physical constraints. Features include virtual date planning tools and integrated options for both online and in-person activities, making dating more adaptable and engaging.
Long-Term Behavioral Shifts
The pandemic caused changes in dating behaviors—singles have a stronger focus on emotional intimacy and meaningful connections. These shifts are expected to persist, redefining how people approach online dating.
- Insight: The behavioral shifts seen during the pandemic, like the increased emphasis on emotional intimacy and intentional dating, will likely remain. People have become more reflective about what they want in relationships, valuing stronger connections over casual ones.
- Example: Experts predict that the trend of prioritizing emotional compatibility over physical attraction will continue. Bumble’s research shows that a large number of users now place higher importance on emotional compatibility and common values. This move encourages better and more meaningful interactions from the jump, creating substantive relationships. Additionally, the trend of slow dating, where people take the time to get to know each other before meeting in person, is still super popular. This approach lessens the pressure to rush into physical meetings and allows for stronger connections to form over time.
Technological Innovations
Upcoming technological innovations promise to further transform the online dating experience. Advances in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and AI-driven matchmaking are poised to revolutionize how people connect and interact on dating platforms.
- Insight: Technological advancements will continue to revolutionize online dating, making the experience more immersive, personalized, and secure. Innovations in VR and AR will create new ways for people to interact and build relationships, while AI-driven algorithms will provide more accurate and personalized match recommendations.
- Example: Users can go on a virtual date in a realistic environment using VR, where they can walk through a virtual place together or have dinner in a virtual restaurant. These immersive experiences can make online dating feel more like real-life interactions. And AI-driven matchmaking is already leveling up the quality of matches by analyzing user behavior, preferences, and interactions to provide highly personalized match suggestions. Furthermore, the integration of blockchain technology for better security and data privacy will address user concerns about safety, offering stronger verification processes and protecting user data from breaches. These advancements will create a more secure and trustworthy dating environment.
Conclusion
The pandemic changed how we do things, some for the better, like being able to work from home, but we aren’t sure that one benefit was worth the cost of what it took from people. One thing is for sure: it did change online dating in numerous ways, and those changes are mostly good!
The COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly left a lasting and reverberating mark on the online dating landscape. It forced dating apps to adapt and innovate, changing how we connect, communicate, and build romantic relationships. While there are obvious benefits, like more flexibility and better safety features and connections, there are also drawbacks, like Zoom fatigue, privacy concerns, and inequality in access.
Balancing these aspects, it’s clear that the pandemic has made online dating more accessible and versatile, but it’s also shown areas needing improvement. The emphasis on emotional connections and the rise of hybrid dating models show a positive shift towards more meaningful relationships. However, addressing the digital divide and enhancing data security will be crucial as we move forward.
We’d always want to hear your thoughts! How has your dating life changed since the pandemic? Have you found new ways to connect that you like more or come up against challenges that you didn’t expect? Share your experiences and stories in the comments below—they can help others in the search for love.
