Best Apps to Make Friends: Top Platforms for 2025-2026

As social isolation reaches levels that the U.S. Surgeon General has categorized as a public health crisis, a growing number of adults are turning to digital platforms to build platonic relationships. Whether they are remote workers missing office social dynamics or younger individuals looking to expand their circles, the stigma once attached to meeting people online has largely evaporated, paving the way for a new generation of friendship-focused applications.

Recent data from Appfigures highlights the scale of this shift. In 2025 alone, friendship-focused apps have seen approximately 4.3 million downloads. Furthermore, over a dozen platforms dedicated to local community building have generated roughly $16 million in U.S. consumer spending so far this year.

These services offer a practical alternative to the awkwardness of approaching strangers in public spaces. By clearly signaling that all users are there for community—not romance—these apps remove the intimidation factor from initiating new connections.

222

The 222 platform is an iOS-exclusive service that coordinates in-person meetups. After users complete a personality assessment, the app organizes small groups to attend public events like comedy clubs or wine bars. The service includes a vetting process and notifies participants of their plans on the day of the event. Users also have the option to bring a “plus-one.” Access requires a $22.22 monthly subscription or a one-time curation fee of the same amount.

Bumble BFF

Originally a feature within the dating app Bumble, the BFF module became a standalone application in 2023. Recently redesigned, the platform now focuses heavily on group meetups. It remains available as a free download for both iOS and Android users.

Clyx

Clyx aggregates event data from sources like TikTok and Ticketmaster to help users find local community gatherings. The app allows users to sync their contact lists to see which events their acquaintances are attending and offers recommendations for people to connect with on-site. Currently exclusive to Miami and London, the company has indicated plans to expand into New York City and São Paulo.

Les Amís

Designed for women, transgender, and LGBTQ+ individuals, Les Amís uses AI to match users based on shared interests. Every Monday, the app suggests matches, encouraging users to coordinate activities such as book clubs or pottery classes. It operates in several European cities, including Paris and Berlin, and is expanding its U.S. presence from Austin and New York to include Boston, Miami, and Los Angeles. Membership costs vary by location, reaching up to $70 in New York.

Meetup

A veteran in the space, Meetup has facilitated local connections since 2002. It allows users to join groups based on hobbies or professional interests, RSVP to events, and engage in group chats.

Meet5

This European platform recently entered the U.S. market, specifically targeting users over 40. It facilitates group activities like hiking and picnics. According to Appfigures, the app has already reached approximately 777,000 U.S. downloads.

Pie

Pie utilizes an AI-driven personality quiz to group users into sets of six for local events. Participants are placed into a group chat prior to their meeting. It is currently available in Austin, Chicago, and San Francisco.

Timeleft

Focusing on Wednesday night dinners, Timeleft matches groups of five strangers. Participants only learn basic details about their dining partners—such as zodiac signs and occupations—the night before. The app includes icebreaker games and suggests after-dinner drinks at a local bar.

Washed Up

Launched in early 2026 for the Los Angeles area, Washed Up allows users to create or join small group “plans” for local events like trivia nights or concerts.

Wyzr Friends

Wyzr Friends caters to adults aged 40 and older, including empty nesters and divorced individuals, across multiple countries including the U.S., Canada, and Australia.

Mmotion

Currently limited to New York City, Mmotion uses location tracking to show users nearby individuals interested in similar activities. Applicants must be approved before joining.

Synchrony

Launched in March 2026, Synchrony is designed specifically for neurodivergent adults. It employs a strict two-step identity verification process and includes “Jesse,” an optional AI communication tool that provides conversation prompts and boundary-setting suggestions. The service requires a $44.99 monthly subscription after a 30-day free trial.