The singles choosing IRL dating events over apps
Singles are increasingly turning to in-person dating events to combat 'app fatigue' and the perceived limitations of digital dating platforms. Industry experts suggest that remote work trends and a desire for more authentic connections are driving this shift back to face-to-face social interactions.
Why it matters
This trend reflects a significant shift in social behavior and the digital economy, as users grow disillusioned with the monetization models of major dating applications.
Image caption, Olivia says she chose to attend this dating event because she has "app fatigue"
Checking in at a dating event in a bar in Guildford, Olivia Miller-Davis is understandably apprehensive.
Even bringing a friend with her doesn't remove the awkwardness at the start of the night.
"It's always nerve-wracking when you're meeting new people," the 28-year-old admits before downloading an app that will match her to other daters based on their star signs.
This is speed dating 2026-style and Olivia, like many people we speak to, is here because she's fed up of "endlessly swiping" or as some describe it "app fatigue".
She says she hates judging people with "really limited information and just a couple of pictures" because she doesn't feel she can "really fully commit" with so little to go on.
Also covering this story
One other newsroom covered this event. We read that version too.
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