How have modern online technologies changed the way people fall in love

The common consensus is that around one-third of today's partners were first introduced via a digital dating outlet. Individuals hoping to connect with people from their neighbourhood can access an array of local dating opportunities, literally at their fingertips. But what has made this form of interaction so successful is the way these outlets harness technology.

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Striving for compatibility

Where dating is concerned, one of the major benefits of modern technology has been to give singles the best chance of meeting someone who would be a perfect match. Software built into seekmeetdate platform for example can analyze new members based on the data users supply when completing their registration forms, and compiling their dating profiles. This information can then be matched with existing site users, and when there are areas where these details overlap, this will be flagged up. This matchmaking has been taken a step further by some websites, which have adopted 'swiping' technology, allowing people to indicate their preferences in an instant.

Providing choice

Before the advent of digital matchmaking, singles seeking partners would often congregate in popular socializing outlets. Whether that was busy nightclubs, social functions, or trendy bars, they would gather in crowds, keeping an eye out for like-minded individuals. But the potential pool of talent they could interact with would be limited to whoever happened to be sharing that location. Modern dating technology has created a world of infinite possibilities. There are thousands of outlets, catering to millions of members, right across the globe. If you had the notion to flirt with someone from a different country, or are interested in a certain hobby, by going online you could tailor your search form accordingly.

The economy of going online

People who socialize regularly will be aware of how much they have to spend on buying drinks, paying into clubs, booking taxis, and so on. When you are single and spending your weekends gravitating to social outlets, a significant part of your budget will be taken up by these sundry expenses. If one date doesn't work out, you'll have to repeat the process the following week. When you go down the digital dating route, a fraction of that cost will provide access to unlimited lists of other singles for you to sift through. There may well be an option to send virtual gifts, but for the most part, courtship takes the form of discreet messaging.

24/7 communication

A significant portion of dating websites are also available as smart decide-friendly apps, which can usually be downloaded from stores for free. This flexible technology allows singles to flirt 'on the go.' You could be commuting to work or study, or relaxing in a coffee shop, and within seconds you might be flirting with someone who has caught your eye or checking out the profiles of the latest newcomers to your favourite dating service. In terms of ways to communicate, these sites will offer an abundance of methods, from WhatsApp groups to video chatting, phone calls to texts.

Technological innovations

People falling in love may have changed little over the centuries, but the ways they can do so are being transformed by technology. Virtual reality (VR), already hugely popular in the gaming industry, is providing an incredibly realistic 3D platform where site users can connect. By donning VR headsets, they can meet avatar versions of people they are attracted to, against fantastical backdrops, engaging in vivid get-togethers. The dating future is definitely intriguing!

David Pac

Update 12 June 2021