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 Appfigures, 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."

Loneliness and social isolation have increased, prompting demand for platonic connections among remote workers and younger adults forming new social circles. Rising acceptance of online connections has spurred friendship-focused apps and local communities. Appfigures estimates show more than a dozen such apps have generated about $16 million in U.S. consumer spending and roughly 4.3 million downloads in 2025. Platforms like Timeleft, Meet5, Bumble's BFF, Meetup, and newcomer 222 facilitate in-person meetups by matching users, organizing vetted public events, and lowering the awkwardness of initiating conversations. Some apps pair participants via personality tests and allow attendees to bring a plus-one.

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