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, teh 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, as a notable exmaple, 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. Below, we’ve compiled a list of them for you to try out.
222
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222 is an iOS-only social events platform that facilitates in-person meetups by pairing a group of strangers based on their personality test results. The app sends invitations to nearby public social events, such as wine bars and comedy clubs.There is then a vetting process, and selected participants are notified on the day of the event. A bonus for those who feel socially anxious: you’re allowed to bring a plus one.
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## Clyx Aims to Be Your Social Guide to Local Events
Clyx is another emerging app in the group-based social networking landscape, with a strong focus on discovering local events. The social platform helps users find community events by integrating data from platforms like Ticketmaster and TikTok. Additionally, Clyx allows users to upload their contact lists, helping them see which events their friends plan to attend. The app also includes a feature that recommends other users to connect with at these events.
as of now, Clyx operates exclusively in two cities: Miami and London. However, it has plans to expand to additional areas in the near future, with New York City and São Paulo at the top of the list. The app is available on the App Store and Google Play Store.
## Les Amis
Meet5 Aims to Be the Meetup for the 40+ Crowd
The local event finding platform has been around since 2002, helping millions of users connect with others who share similar interests.Users can RSVP to events, join groups that cater to a variety of hobbies, professions, or social causes, as well as create their own groups and events. They can also chat with group members and post updates and photos from gatherings.
Meet5
This European community-building app recently launched in the U.S., targeting users over 40 who want to meet new people in their area and participate in group activities such as picnics, concerts, and hiking. Notably, in a short time, there have been around 777,000 U.S. downloads so far across the Apple App Store and Google Play.
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Timeleft: A New Approach to Time Management
Published: 2025/09/26 18:15:17
In a world saturated with productivity apps, Timeleft is attempting to carve out a niche by focusing on what you haven’t scheduled. instead of adding yet another tool to manage your to-do list,Timeleft helps you visualize and protect your free time. This novel approach is gaining traction among users feeling overwhelmed by constant scheduling.
How Timeleft Works
Timeleft operates on a simple premise: block out your commitments first, then see what remains. Users input their fixed appointments – work meetings, gym sessions, family obligations – and Timeleft visually represents the remaining unscheduled blocks. Unlike conventional calendars that emphasize what you’re doing, Timeleft highlights the time you have available.
The app’s core features include:
- Visual timeline: A clear, color-coded timeline displaying scheduled events and free time.
- Buffer Zones: The ability to automatically add buffer time between appointments to prevent burnout and allow for transitions.
- “Protected Time” Blocks: Designate specific blocks of time as untouchable for focused work or personal activities.
- Integration with Existing Calendars: Seamlessly syncs with Google Calendar, Outlook, and Apple Calendar.
- Habit Stacking Suggestions: Timeleft suggests optimal times to incorporate new habits based on your existing schedule and available free time.
Why This Approach Matters
Many productivity systems focus on maximizing output, often leading to overcommitment and stress. Timeleft flips the script. By prioritizing free time,it encourages users to be more intentional about how they spend their energy. This can lead to increased well-being, reduced burnout, and a greater sense of control over one’s life.
“We believe that time isn’t