The Rise of Friendship Apps: Addressing the Loneliness Epidemic

In recent years, there’s been a growing interest in finding platonic connections, as loneliness and social isolation become increasingly prevalent. This trend has spurred the development of a new wave of apps designed to help people forge meaningful friendships and build communities.

A Public Health Concern

The issue of loneliness has gained significant attention, with the U.S. Surgeon General labeling it a public health crisis in 2023 . The Surgeon General’s advisory highlights the profound consequences of loneliness and isolation, drawing parallels to public health initiatives addressing tobacco utilize, obesity, and addiction . Remote workers missing workplace interactions and younger adults seeking to establish social circles are among those actively seeking new friendships.

The Market for Friendship

The stigma surrounding online connection has diminished, paving the way for friendship-focused apps. Estimates from Appfigures indicate that over a dozen local-focused friendship apps have generated approximately $16 million in consumer spending in the U.S. In 2025, with around 4.3 million downloads . These apps offer a less intimidating alternative to initiating conversations in traditional settings, as they clearly signal that users are seeking friendship, not romance.

Friendship Apps to Explore

Here’s a look at some of the apps currently available:

222

222 is an iOS-only platform that facilitates in-person meetups by matching individuals based on personality test results. The app sends invitations to social events, such as wine bars and comedy clubs, and vets participants before notifying them. A plus-one is permitted for those feeling socially anxious. The service charges a $22.22 curation fee or a monthly subscription of the same price.

BFF

Bumble, the dating app giant, launched its friend-finding feature in 2016, which later became a stand-alone app in 2023. BFF has undergone a redesign with a greater focus on group meetups. It is available for free on iOS and Android.

Clyx

Clyx is a group-based social networking app focused on discovering local events. It integrates data from platforms like Ticketmaster and TikTok and allows users to upload contact lists to see which events their friends are attending. Currently available in Miami and London, Clyx plans to expand to New York City and São Paulo. It’s available on the App Store and Google Play Store.

Les Amís

Les Amís is a friendship app tailored for women, transgender, and LGBTQ+ individuals. It uses AI to match users based on shared interests and encourages participation in local events like pottery classes and book clubs. Matches are made every Monday, allowing users to chat and plan meetups. Available in cities across Europe and in Austin and New York in the U.S., with plans to expand to Boston, Miami, and Los Angeles. The app uses a paid membership model, varying by city (e.g., $70 in New York, €55 in Amsterdam).

Meetup

A long-standing platform since 2002, Meetup helps users connect with others who share similar interests. Users can RSVP to events, join groups, and create their own gatherings. It too facilitates communication among group members.

Meet5

This European community-building app recently launched in the U.S., targeting users over 40. It focuses on group activities like picnics, concerts, and hiking. Appfigures estimates around 777,000 U.S. Downloads so far.

Pie

Pie uses an AI-driven quiz to predict user compatibility. Attendees of Pie events take a personality assessment, and the algorithm organizes them into groups of six, who are then added to a group chat within the app. Currently available in Austin, Chicago, and San Francisco.

Timeleft

Timeleft helps organize weekly dinner dates with strangers. An algorithm matches users based on age, gender, and personality. Users learn minor details about their matches the night before dinner, including their occupations and zodiac signs. Dinners take place on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 p.m., with conversation starters provided by the app. An after-party at a local bar often follows. Pricing varies by country and restaurant.

Washed Up

Launched in early 2026, Washed Up is designed for people in Los Angeles seeking to find events and meet new people. Users can create or join “plans” tied to specific events and chat with group members. It’s available on the App Store.

Wyzr Friends

Wyzr Friends is an activity-based app for adults 40 and older, catering to those seeking to connect with like-minded individuals. Users can thumbs up or down potential friends and arrange in-person activities. It’s available on iOS and Android in several countries, including the U.S., Canada, and Australia.

Mmotion

Mmotion blends location tracking with social discovery to help users connect nearby and explore new venues. Users can join interest-based groups, view a map of active users, and send messages. Currently available only in New York City on iOS and Android, requiring an application for access.

The rise of these apps reflects a growing awareness of the importance of social connection and a desire for innovative solutions to combat loneliness and isolation.