Virtual Reality Dating Is on the Rise Amid the Pandemic

Before the pandemic crept into the already tricky dating world, video chats were a mere short step of the dating process. As Mashable calls it, the virtual “vibe check" allowed online daters to feel out whether they would actually enjoy an in-person date. It saved energy, time and the awkwardness that comes with sitting in on a horrible first date. However, the pandemic has made the virtual vibe check a mandatory part of getting to know someone new.

Dating apps like Hinge conducted studies to determine whether “users planned on incorporating video dates in the dating process." Over half of the users reported that they would be making this change, and Hinge shared that users followed through.

As virtual dating becomes more popular than ever, dating apps have taken it upon themselves to enhance the experience for daters. Tinder has implemented an Explore feature that allows daters to take control of their experience, instead of waiting for the algorithm to make their match. Other apps have tapped into the sensual side of dating and added features like audio messaging and voice prompts. For those out of the dating game wondering how this might enhance the experience, think of late-night voice memos from a special someone.

Improvements in virtual dating don’t stop there. With the growing metaverse, people can expect that dating pandemic-style will become even more engaging and innovative. For example, earlier this year, Match Group -- the owners of dating apps like Tinder and Hinge pitched the idea of a virtual reality space for dating in the metaverse.

Ultimately, the innovations in virtual reality and dating will allow people to connect and assess chemistry without the pandemic disrupting their love life entirely. By appealing to the senses with new visual and audible features, people can get creative with their dating life and take it to the next level.

While you are here, relationship experts are predicting these dating trends for 2022.