Dating apps in Japan are partnering with leisure spots around the country, shepherding bubbling online romances into in-person encounters. To deal with the tension between IRL and digital, apps are combining the two worlds to elevate people’s experiences while revitalising a post-pandemic economy.

Bumble is testing a speed dating feature that will allow users to chat with one another before deciding to match. The superficial, appearance-focused nature of most dating apps has left many users weary, but this update could facilitate meaningful connections and avoid early red flags.

Offering an alternative to the high-speed swipe culture of modern dating, Jigsaw brings a fresh approach to finding love by encouraging meaningful and authentic connections. In an oversaturated and competitive dating landscape, can considerate apps provide users with a greater sense of connection?

Dating apps aren’t the only way for people to meet online. Couples are finding each other all over the internet – via Discord servers, video games, review sites, and even customer service portals. What do these unconventional digital meet-cutes reveal about the state of digital romance?