In today’s digital-first world, meeting new people and building friendships no longer depends on being in the same city, school, or workplace. With the rise of social networking platforms and innovative apps, making friends online has become easier, faster, and more meaningful than ever. Whether you want to expand your social circle, meet like-minded people, or connect with individuals across the globe, there are several apps designed to help you do just that.
This article dives into the top 7 apps to make new friends online, exploring their unique features, pros, and why they are trusted by millions worldwide. If you’re ready to find the perfect platform to grow your network, keep reading.
1. Bumble For Friends (BFF)
Bumble is widely known for dating, but it also has a unique Bumble For Friends (BFF) mode that focuses purely on platonic connections.
Instead of swiping right for romance, you swipe to find people with shared hobbies, goals, and lifestyles. The interface is simple, friendly, and designed to encourage meaningful conversations.
Key features include:
- Swipe-based matching for friends instead of dating.
- Interest-based profiles so you can match with people who share hobbies.
- Safe environment with strong privacy settings.
Bumble BFF is especially popular among those who move to new cities or are looking for a community of like-minded friends.
2. Meetup
If you want to make new friends while participating in activities, Meetup is the go-to app. It connects people through events, workshops, and group activities based on shared interests.
Whether you enjoy hiking, coding, cooking, or photography, Meetup offers thousands of groups to join. You can either attend events or create your own group to meet people with similar passions.
Highlights of Meetup:
- Search by interest and location.
- Join local events or create your own.
- Build friendships both online and offline.
Meetup is perfect for people who want to combine real-life interaction with digital networking.
3. Patook
Patook is a strictly platonic friendship app designed to remove ambiguity from online connections. It uses a points-based system where users reward others for shared qualities, making the process transparent and authentic.
Unlike dating apps, Patook emphasizes finding genuine friendships. You can filter matches by interests, skills, and location, ensuring that every connection feels purposeful.
Why Patook stands out:
- No dating—friendship only.
- AI filters unwanted messages.
- Reward-based interaction system.
Patook is ideal for people who want a safe and clear environment for making friends without confusion.
4. Yubo
Yubo brands itself as a “social discovery app” for young people looking to meet new friends around the world. It combines live streaming, group chats, and community discovery features.
With Yubo, you can join live video hangouts, play games, and connect with people instantly. It feels like a digital hangout spot, especially popular among Gen Z users.
Top features include:
- Live streaming with communities.
- Swipe to find new friends.
- Real-time chatting and gaming.
Yubo is a great pick if you’re looking for a vibrant, youthful platform where friendships form naturally.
5. Hey! VINA
Often called “Tinder for (girl) friends”, Hey! VINA is designed for women who want to expand their social circles in a safe and empowering way.
The app allows women to connect with others who share similar lifestyles and values, whether for travel buddies, gym partners, or everyday friendships.
Features worth noting:
- Swipe-based friend matching for women.
- Personality quizzes to help find compatible matches.
- Curated articles and friendship advice.
Hey! VINA is tailored for women who prioritize safe spaces and meaningful connections.
6. Friender
As its name suggests, Friender makes it easier to find friends through shared activities. Instead of just browsing profiles, you select from over 100 different activities—like hiking, yoga, or playing video games—and get matched with people who enjoy the same things.
Why Friender is popular:
- Activity-based matching.
- User-friendly design.
- Encourages real-world meetups.
Friender is perfect for people who want activity-driven friendships instead of just chatting online.
7. Peanut
Originally created for mothers, Peanut has expanded into a platform for women to build friendships and support networks across different life stages. Whether you’re navigating motherhood, pregnancy, or simply looking for new friends, Peanut provides a welcoming community.
Core features:
- Topic-based groups for shared experiences.
- Swipe and match with friends.
- Support communities for women of all ages.
Peanut is a fantastic platform for women looking to connect with others who understand their unique life journeys.
Why Use Apps to Make New Friends?
Apps for making friends provide several benefits beyond convenience:
- Accessibility: Connect with people worldwide.
- Interest-based connections: Find like-minded individuals instantly.
- Safety: Most apps offer security features to filter inappropriate interactions.
- Diverse communities: Engage with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
In short, these apps break down geographical and social barriers, making it easier to find your tribe.
Tips to Build Strong Friendships Online
- Be authentic: Honesty in your profile and conversations helps build trust.
- Engage actively: Participate in group chats, events, or activities.
- Respect boundaries: Online friendships thrive on mutual respect.
- Take it offline: If possible, strengthen your bond by meeting in person.
Conclusion
Making friends online is no longer unusual—it’s the new norm. From Bumble BFF to Peanut, each app offers a unique way to build connections and expand your social circle. Whether you’re looking for a hiking buddy, a supportive community, or just someone to chat with, these platforms ensure you’ll never feel alone in the digital world.
So, download one of these top 7 apps to make new friends online today and start growing your circle of genuine, meaningful connections.
