The future of Intimacy is Digital
For over 20 years, we have been at the forefront of social discovery. We see a significant shift in how people connect and build meaningful relationships online. Through the extensive research, we have identified a growing trend for virtual intimacy — emotional closeness, connection, and bonds that users can develop and share through digital platforms.
1
The demand for online connections and relationships is growing
50m
newusers
Registered across the SDG portfolio in 2024, which is like the entire population of Spain signed up
2
Gender balance in nearly perfect symmetry
47%
Female
53%
Male
3
19m
newmatches
Formed in 2024, which is like having a couple for every person in the state of California
58m
Messages daily
Fostering connections and sparking conversations that matter
4
The top reasons why users aspire for virtual intimacy
Companionship
Affordability
Escapism
5
Virtuality is about meaningful connections
957M
Mentions of “love” in the dialogues of our users in 2024
71%
Users said virtual messaging alone has decreased their feelings of loneliness
1m+
Couples fostering lasting online relationships on SDG platforms
62%
Feel more comfortable expressing sexual desires to a virtual match
6
Users are seeking others with a new mindset in different countries, according to Dating.com
30%
of users find their local dating pool too homogenous
71%
of singles want to build connections across countries, compared to 12% before the pandemic
21%
would learn a new language to communicate with their international-based companions
83%
have virtually dated someone from another state, and 71% have been in a digital relationship with someone from another country
What will be important for users in 2025?
Authenticity
Users want to be sure that the platform and the people on it are authentic. This brings up the issue of verification, along with privacy and security. Therefore, features that allow users to safely, securely, and easily verify themselves and others will continue to be implemented and refined.
Quick gratification
Modern platforms like TikTok have shaped users' expectations for quick rewards, creating a need to cater to these habits. Today, users are accustomed to quick dopamine hits, and apps must adapt by providing immediate value. Features like fast conversation starters or gamification can effectively enhance engagement and satisfaction.
Personalization
Users want to encounter relevant people, content, and experiences within the product.This is where integrating machine learning and AI solutions is likely to have the greatest impact.