Bumble Reveals That 83% Of Users Would Consider ‘virtual Dating’ While Social Distancing
Bumble, the woman-first social networking app with nearly 90 million users worldwide, released insights from over 5,000 of its Irish and British users this month. The results showcase a steep rise in the trend of virtual dating and how the dating landscape has changed since social distancing became the norm.
Making connections is important now more than ever, and Bumble users are still looking for ways to connect with matches, and feel confident that they are doing so in a safe way. The research reveals that 83% of respondents would consider video dating while social distancing, with 64% opting to have a video chat over a drink/coffee.
Everyone has their own routine when getting ready to meet someone for the first time – whether that’s trying out a new make-up look or calling your best friend to help decide on your outfit. 46% of users agree that they’d get ready for a virtual date in the same way as a date IRL, helping them to feel confident.
Positively, 68% of users feel like they have the right tools to continue dating on Bumble while social distancing, demonstrating their resilience to uncertainty and an optimistic outlook aswe move into a new era of dating. Bumble expects to see long-term behavioural changes among users as they look to the in-app video chat and voice calls feature to create more meaningful connections.
Following the results of the survey, Bumble reveals their advice on how to date virtually using their video chat + voice call features:
Date smarter (and safer)
Hands down, these features are first and foremost about creating a safer space on Bumble Date. Calling is a quick way to make the first move or a great way to get familiar with someone. The best part? You don’t have to exchange phone numbers or email addresses! So you don’t have to worry about anyone having your personal information until you’re ready.
Using Video Chat and Voice Calls
To start a call, you first have to match with someone. Once you’ve matched, a video icon and phone icon will appear in the top right-hand corner of your conversation screen. Women get the option to call as soon as they match with someone — and this can count as their first move. Men get the option to call only after a first move has been made.
There has also been an increase in messages sent:
Bumble has seen a 35% increase in messages sent
Women are sending more messages than men. Their message sending has increased by 39% compared to men’s 33%
This increase is greatest for users aged 23-29
And, there has been a rise in video chat / voice call use
Bumble has seen a 21% increase in video calls over the past week
79% of video calls are started by men
The average call length is 14 minute
