As we bid farewell to 2021, Tinder’s ‘Year in Swipe 2021’ report sheds light on the evolving dating landscape, particularly among Gen Z users in India. From virtual calls to real-life meetups, here’s a glimpse into how Indian Gen Z navigated online dating this year.
Embracing Virtual Connections
Video calls emerged as a dominant trend in 2020, and their popularity continued into 2021. Tinder’s in-app video call feature, introduced in India in October 2020, witnessed widespread adoption, particularly in cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru. Globally, mentions of ‘video call’ in Tinder bios surged by 52%, reflecting a broader shift towards virtual interactions.
Transitioning to Real-Life Dates
Despite the prevalence of virtual connections, Tinder users exhibited a growing openness to real-life encounters. Mentions of ‘nearby’ and ‘close by’ in bios increased by 20% globally, indicating a willingness to explore offline dating opportunities. In India, activities like “picnic in a park” and “virtual movie nights” emerged as popular choices for first dates, showcasing a desire for diverse dating experiences.
Vaccination Status as a Social Marker
With the acceleration of vaccination drives in India, mentions of ‘vaccinated’ in Tinder bios surged by 40x between February and August 2021. The vaccinated badge became a prominent feature, symbolizing safety and responsibility. For Indian Gen Z, displaying vaccination status on Tinder profiles became a symbol of pride, highlighting a shared commitment to health and well-being.
Small Gestures and Expressions of Affection
Beyond vaccination status, Indian Gen Z valued small gestures and expressions of affection. Acts like ‘getting coffee’ or ‘complimenting outfits’ emerged as meaningful ways to connect and make someone’s day, emphasizing the importance of genuine interactions and kindness in the dating realm.
The Language of Emojis
Emojis continue to play a significant role in Tinder bios, serving as expressive tools for users. The side-eye emoji emerged as the most popular choice globally, witnessing a 40% increase in usage. This emoji, according to Tinder, encapsulated the mix of optimism and skepticism experienced by users throughout the year. Additionally, Indian Gen Z favored emojis like the black heart and smile with a blush face, adding playful nuances to their profiles.
As we navigate the complexities of dating in a digital age, Tinder’s insights offer valuable glimpses into the evolving dynamics of Gen Z relationships and interactions on the platform.
