By Eleanor Foakes and Ghizlan Mezian

Socialising during social distancing has been difficult, causing people to rely on social media to keep in contact with friends, families and colleagues. But when it comes to the dating scene, apps like Tinder and Bumble have risen in popularity.

In April 2020, messaging on Tinder had increased globally by 52% since the start of March.

The rise of online dating has become a very normalised way of life during the pandemic.

During the peak of lockdown in March 2020 three billion swipes on Tinder were made in a day by singletons setting a new Tinder record.

The threat of potentially spreading a lethal virus has impacted people on a global scale, with social restrictions uneased and people being unable to go out and interact with others in social environments, online dating has resulted in people looking for love online.

The 21st century has become a new era for finding romance, with the heavy use of cell phones and excessive reliance on the internet, searching for significant others has become easy to find as they can literally can be found in the palm of your hand.

In a survey, 46% of people using Bumble said they were looking for something serious after experiencing loneliness in lockdown.

“I’ve definitely used tinder the most during lockdown and I’ve spoken to more guys for sure during the time” states a user describing her experience on Tinder.

Some have even found partners during lockdown, thanking dating apps for finding them, as this timing really gives the opportunity to become familiar with their significant other.

“I personally got into a relationship in lockdown which has been nice because you appreciate the time you spend together more and get to know them better as there’s not much else you can do”.

However, some in relationships have not had such a positive experience, as the distancing definitely puts a lot of pressure on couples.

“I would say everyone’s experience have been different with relationships in lockdown, as some as have tested relationships”.