In recent years, more people have been searching for ways to build platonic connections as feelings of loneliness and social isolation become more common.
In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General even called this a public health crisis. Remote workers miss the daily interactions found in an office, while younger folks are eager to form adult social circles based on shared interests and hobbies.
The rise of online dating apps has helped eliminate the stigma around seeking connections online, leading to a surge in apps aimed at fostering friendships and building local communities.
Estimates from Appfigures show that over a dozen friendship apps focused on local connections have generated around $16 million in consumer spending in the U.S. this year. Notable apps include Timeleft, Meet5, and Bumble’s BFF, which have collectively racked up about 4.3 million downloads in 2025.
These platforms offer a less awkward way to make friends compared to striking up conversations with strangers at places like the gym or local café. They make it clear that everyone on the app is looking for friendship, not romance, reducing the intimidation factor.
From established names like Meetup to newcomers like 222, there’s a growing variety of apps catering to the demand for real friendships. Here’s a list of some worth checking out:
222
Image Credits:222 (screenshot)
222 is an iOS-only platform that helps users meet in real life by matching groups based on personality tests. The app sends invitations for nearby social events, like wine bars and comedy clubs. After a vetting process, selected participants are notified on the day of the event. Plus, if you’re feeling socially anxious, you can invite a friend along.
The service charges a curation fee of $22.22 or offers a monthly subscription for the same price.
BFF
Image Credits:Bumble
Bumble, known for dating, has expanded into friendship with its BFF feature, which launched as a standalone app in 2023 after debuting in 2016. Recently, the app underwent a redesign, focusing more on group meetups to help users expand their social circles.
BFF is free to download on iOS and Android devices.
Clyx
Image Credits:Clyx
Clyx is another emerging player in group-based social networking, aiming to help users discover local events. By integrating data from platforms like Ticketmaster and TikTok, it helps users find community gatherings. Users can also upload their contact lists to see which events their friends will attend and get recommendations for other users to connect with.
Currently, Clyx is available in just two cities: Miami and London, but it plans to expand soon, targeting New York City and São Paulo next. You can find it on the App Store and Google Play Store.
Les Amís
Image Credits:Les Amis
Les Amís is designed for women, transgender, and LGBTQ+ individuals. It uses AI to match users based on common interests and encourages participation in local events like pottery classes and wine tastings. New matches are made each Monday, giving users a chance to chat and arrange meetups later in the week.
The app operates in various cities across Europe, including Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, Madrid, Paris, and Stockholm, alongside Austin and New York in the U.S. Membership fees vary by location, costing around $70 in New York and €55 in Amsterdam.
Meetup
Image Credits:Meetup
Since 2002, Meetup has helped countless users connect based on shared interests. Users can RSVP to events, join groups for hobbies or social causes, and even create their own events. They can also interact with group members and post updates and photos from gatherings.
Meet5
Image Credits:Meet5
This European app recently made its way to the U.S., targeting users over 40 who wish to meet new people and join group activities like picnics and hikes. In a short span, the app has amassed about 777,000 downloads in the U.S., according to Appfigures estimates.
Pie
Image Credits:Pie
Pie is another newcomer, featuring an AI-driven quiz to predict user compatibility. Each person who RSVPs to a Pie event completes a brief personality assessment, with the algorithm grouping attendees into six-person cohorts. A group chat within the Pie app allows them to interact before the event.
Currently, Pie is available in Austin, Chicago, and San Francisco, and can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play Store.
Timeleft
Image Credits:Timeleft
Timeleft helps users organize weekly dinner gatherings with groups of strangers. Using a special algorithm, it matches users based on age, gender, and personality. Users find out only minimal details about their dinner companions the night before, such as occupations and zodiac signs.
Dinners are scheduled for Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m., with conversation starter games provided to help break the ice. Users can book their meals online or via the app, though costs vary by restaurant and location. Attendees pay a ticket fee up front and cover their own dining expenses.
Wyzr Friends
Image Credits:Wzyr Friends
Wyzr Friends is an activity-focused app for adults aged 40 and over, catering to empty nesters and those looking for like-minded individuals. Users can indicate interest in potential friends and plan in-person activities based on shared hobbies, like going to movies or hiking.
It’s available on iOS and Android in the U.S., Canada, Australia, Ireland, the Philippines, Singapore, and Mexico.
Mmotion
Image Credits:Mmotion (Image has been modified)
Mmotion blends location tracking with social discovery, helping users connect with nearby people and explore new local bars or restaurants. Members can join interest-based groups—like hiking or art—view a map of active users, and message those nearby. The app also highlights new spots, making it easy to discover venues to visit.
Right now, Mmotion is limited to users in New York City on iOS and Android. Users need to apply for access before they can join.
This story was updated after publication.
