The best apps to make new friends right now

In an era where social connections are increasingly vital, the quest for platonic friendships has gained prominence. The U.S. Surgeon General has even categorized the rise in loneliness and social isolation as a public health crisis. Many individuals, particularly remote workers missing the camaraderie of office life and younger people eager to establish their social circles, are turning to technology to forge new connections. The stigma surrounding online friendships is fading, paving the way for a new generation of apps designed specifically to foster companionship and community. According to data from Appfigures, numerous local-oriented friendship applications have already amassed around $16 million in consumer spending in the U.S. this year alone. Noteworthy contenders in this space include Timeleft, Meet5, and Bumble's BFF, which collectively have seen about 4.3 million downloads in 2025. These platforms aim to provide a more relaxed alternative to traditional approaches, like awkwardly striking up a conversation with a stranger at a coffee shop or gym. By ensuring that all users are seeking friendship rather than romance, these apps simplify the initiation of conversations and interactions. One standout application, 222, is available exclusively on iOS and pairs users for in-person meetups based on personality test results. It sends invitations to local events, such as comedy shows and wine tastings, with a vetting process ensuring participants are a good fit. For those who experience social anxiety, bringing a friend along is encouraged, and the service charges a nominal fee of $22.22. Bumble, a well-known name in dating, has ventured into the friendship sphere with its BFF feature, which became a standalone app in 2023. Recently revamped, the app now focuses on group meetups, catering to users' desires to expand their social networks. BFF is accessible for free to users on both iOS and Android. Another emerging player, Clyx, zeroes in on local events, helping users discover community activities by integrating data from platforms like Ticketmaster and TikTok. Users can also upload their contacts to see which friends will be attending these events, which could enhance their social experiences. Currently operating in Miami and London, Clyx plans to expand to cities like New York and São Paulo soon. Les Amís, designed for women, transgender, and LGBTQ+ individuals, utilizes AI for matching users based on shared interests and encourages participation in local events. The app, available in various European cities and select U.S. locations, facilitates weekly connections and meetups, with a membership model reflecting local pricing. For those looking for intimate gatherings, Timeleft organizes weekly dinner parties for groups of strangers, allowing participants to learn minimal details about each other beforehand to ease the ice-breaking process. Similarly, Washed Up, a social event discovery app focused on Los Angeles, helps users find and join events, creating smaller groups for shared experiences. Mmotion, a newer app, combines location tracking with social discovery, enabling users to connect with people nearby and explore local venues. Meanwhile, Synchrony provides a tailored experience for neurodivergent adults, incorporating AI features to support communication and create a safe environment. As the landscape of friendship apps continues to evolve, these platforms are meeting a growing demand for meaningful connections in an increasingly digital world.