The Story The decline of dating apps, and what could replace them
Jan 7, 2025
Hannah Skelly, a fashion writer at The Times, shares her humorous yet disheartening tales from dating apps, while Dr. Liesel Sharabi, an expert in communication technologies, dives into the shifting landscape of modern romance. They discuss the alarming decline of dating apps as users express frustration and burnout. The conversation includes thoughts on what might replace these platforms, like AI and augmented reality innovations, and emphasizes the significance of genuine, in-person connections over algorithm-driven matches.
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Hannah's Hinge Experience
- Hannah Skelly excitedly joined Hinge, hoping for meaningful connections.
- Despite initial success with Edward, the connection fizzled, a recurring theme in her app dating experience.
Pre-App Dating Life
- Before apps, Hannah met partners organically in random places like weddings, Glastonbury, even the Tube.
- She even had a boyfriend from a Tube encounter, highlighting her chatty nature.
Six Apps in One Week
- Hannah tried six dating apps: Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, Thursday, Field, and Raya.
- Her experiences ranged from Tinder being a "hunting ground" to Field's alternative love scene and Raya's elitism.