As people look for ways to make new friends, here are the apps promising to help | TechCrunch

"In recent years, people have been increasingly looking for new ways to form platonic connections, as loneliness and social isolation have become more prevalent. In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General went so far as to label this issue a public health crisis. Remote workers, who miss the everyday interactions found in an office, and younger individuals eager to create their adult social circles based on shared interests and hobbies, are among those seeking meaningful friendships."

"Thanks to online dating apps, the stigma associated with finding connections online has largely faded away. This has welcomed a new wave of apps focused on fostering friendships and building local communities. According to estimates from SensorTower, over a dozen local-focused friendship apps have collectively generated approximately $16 million in consumer spending in the U.S. so far this year. Some notable examples include Timeleft, Meet5, and Bumble's BFF. Additionally, these apps have garnered approximately 4.3 million downloads thus far in 2025."

"The apps aim to provide a less awkward solution than, for instance, approaching a stranger at the gym or local café and trying to strike up a conversation. These platforms clearly indicate that everyone using the app is looking for the same thing - friendship, not romance - making it much less intimidating to initiate conversations. From major players like Meetup to newer ones like 222, there are plenty of apps that cater to the growing demand for meaningful friendships."

Loneliness and social isolation have increased, prompting demand for new ways to form platonic connections. The U.S. Surgeon General labeled the issue a public health crisis in 2023. Remote workers and younger adults seek friendships based on shared interests. Online dating reduced stigma around meeting people online, enabling apps focused on friendship and local communities. SensorTower estimates over a dozen local-focused friendship apps generated about $16 million in U.S. consumer spending and roughly 4.3 million downloads in 2025. The apps signal platonic intent, reduce awkwardness, and organize in-person meetups. 222 is an iOS-only platform that pairs strangers by personality test, sends invitations to nearby public events, vetting participants and notifying selected people on the day of the event.

Read at TechCrunch