Addressing the Loneliness Epidemic Through Technology
In recent years, the rise of loneliness and social isolation has become a significant public health concern, with the U.S. Surgeon General officially declaring it a crisis in 2023. Remote work and shifting social dynamics have left many searching for meaningful platonic connections outside traditional environments. The stigma around forming relationships online has diminished thanks to the normalization of dating apps. This shift has paved the way for a new category of apps dedicated exclusively to fostering friendships and strengthening local communities.
Market Overview: Friendship Apps Gain Traction
According to Appfigures, over a dozen friendship-focused apps targeting local connections have generated roughly $16 million in U.S. consumer spending in 2025. Collectively, these platforms have been downloaded approximately 4.3 million times this year, signaling robust demand. These apps seek to eliminate the discomfort of approaching strangers in public settings by creating safe, intention-driven environments where users know everyone is looking for friendship, not romance.
Key Players in the Friendship App Space
- 222: An iOS-exclusive platform that pairs strangers for curated in-person events using personality tests. Participants receive invitations to social gatherings like wine bars and comedy clubs, with a vetting process ensuring quality experiences. Users can bring a plus one to ease social anxiety. Access requires a $22.22 curation fee or a monthly subscription.
- BFF by Bumble: Originating from the dating giant Bumble, BFF has evolved into a standalone app emphasizing group meetups to expand social circles. It offers free downloads on iOS and Android, with premium subscriptions unlocking features such as unlimited swipes and profile insights.
- CLYX: Focused on event discovery, CLYX integrates data from Ticketmaster and TikTok to help users find local happenings. It also connects users with friends attending the same events and suggests new connections. Currently operating in Miami and London, expansion to NYC and São Paulo is planned.
- Les Amis: Tailored for women, transgender, and LGBTQ+ communities, Les Amis uses AI to match users based on interests and promotes participation in local activities like pottery classes and book clubs. Available across major European cities and select U.S. locations, it employs a paid membership ranging from €55 to $70 depending on city.
- Meetup: A veteran platform since 2002, Meetup facilitates connections through interest-based groups and events, allowing users to RSVP, create groups, and share event updates.
- MEET5: Recently launched in the U.S., MEET5 targets users over 40 interested in group activities like picnics and hiking, having already amassed over 777,000 downloads.
- Pie: Featuring an AI-powered personality quiz, Pie organizes attendees into small groups for social events, enabling pre-event interaction through group chats. It is currently available in Austin, Chicago, and San Francisco.
- Timeleft: This app arranges weekly dinner dates with strangers matched by an algorithm considering age, gender, and personality. Events include icebreaker games and after-parties, with pricing varying by region.
- Wyzr Friends: Designed for adults 40+, Wyzr Friends facilitates connections based on shared interests and supports arranging in-person activities. The app is accessible across multiple countries on iOS and Android.
FinOracleAI — Market View
The surge in friendship-oriented social apps reflects a broader societal need to combat isolation and foster genuine connections. These platforms leverage technology—AI matchmaking, curated events, and social integration—to lower barriers to new friendships and create safe, welcoming environments.
- Opportunities: Expanding into underserved demographics, integrating more AI personalization, and geographic scaling could drive user growth and monetization.
- Risks: User retention challenges, privacy concerns with data sharing, and competition from established social networks may impact market traction.
Impact: These apps represent a positive development in addressing social isolation by innovating how adults cultivate friendships, with strong potential for continued growth and influence in the social networking landscape.
