Top 20+ Making Friends Apps To Meet New People [2020 Updated]

We live in a digital era where scrolling through social media has become second nature. While platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok help us stay informed and entertained, they often fail to create genuine human connections. As a result, many people struggle to build real-life friendships—especially as busy schedules, career demands, and personal responsibilities take over.

At the same time, the digital age also offers a powerful solution. With the right apps to make friends, people can connect with others who share similar interests, values, and lifestyles—without the pressure of traditional social networking.

So, how do you meet new people in a screen-dominated world? The answer lies in modern friend-finder apps. These platforms are designed to help users form authentic, meaningful relationships while fitting seamlessly into fast-paced lives.

Below, we’ve curated 20+ of the best apps for making friends, starting with the most innovative options available today. Whether your goal is to find a workout partner, language exchange buddy, travel companion, or simply someone who shares your interests, these apps are built to support real connections at scale.

1. Yubo – Join, Play And Make Friends Online

Yubo is redefining what social networking looks like for younger audiences. Recently securing $47.5 million in Series C funding, this French startup has emerged as one of the fastest-growing platforms focused purely on friendship—not performance or popularity.

Unlike traditional social media apps, Yubo removes follower counts, likes, and content feeds. Instead, users swipe profiles to connect and join themed live streams where they can play games, hang out, and interact naturally. The result is a more authentic social experience that prioritizes interaction over validation.

Pricing

• Free to use
• No paid subscriptions or memberships

Why Yubo Stands Out

• Clear separation of age groups, making it safer for minors
• Live streaming based on shared interests
• Strong focus on experiences, not content creation

Looking to build a social or friendship app like Yubo?
With over 1,700 successful app development projects, AgileTech helps startups and enterprises turn innovative social app ideas into scalable products.

2. Ablo – Make Friends Around the World

Recognized by Google as Best App of 2019, Ablo is built for people who want to connect beyond borders. Its mission is simple yet powerful: enable meaningful conversations between users from different cultures.

Ablo allows users to chat via text or video while offering real-time translation, making global friendships accessible without language barriers. In many ways, it feels like traveling the world—without leaving your home.

Pricing

• Free to use

Key Benefits

• Real-time translation for text and video chats
• Strong cultural discovery focus
• Ideal for users interested in global friendships

If making international connections excites you, Ablo delivers exceptional value at no cost.

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3. Meetup – Find Events Near You

Meetup is one of the most established friend-finder apps for people who prefer real-world interactions. Instead of matching profiles, Meetup connects users through local events, interest-based groups, and shared activities.

From running clubs and tech meetups to language exchanges and travel groups, Meetup helps users turn common interests into real friendships—especially useful for people who’ve recently relocated.

Pricing

• Free to join
• Some groups charge membership or event fees

Why Businesses and Users Love Meetup

• Encourages offline engagement
• Scales easily across cities and interests
• Strong community-driven model

Meetup proves that the best friendships often start with shared experiences.

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4. Tastebuds – Find Your Music Friends

Tastebuds offers a refreshing approach to making friends by matching users based on music preferences rather than appearance or personality questionnaires.

Users can look for a “concert buddy,” a “new friend,” or simply someone who shares their favorite artists. This creates deeper, more natural conversations—without the pressure of immediate meetups.

Pricing

• Free basic account
• Premium plans:
  • 1 month: $10
  • 3 months: $6.66/month
  • 6 months: $5/month

Music becomes the bridge, making Tastebuds ideal for users seeking authentic, interest-led friendships.

See more: How to Create A Dating App: A Comprehensive Guide

5. Spotafriend – Meet Teens App

Designed specifically for users aged 13–19, Spotafriend is a swipe-based app that focuses exclusively on friendship—not dating. Teens can connect with others nearby in a safe, age-appropriate environment.

Matches occur when both users swipe right, allowing them to chat privately afterward.

Pricing

• Free version available
• Ultimate Access options:
  • $2.99/week
  • $7.99/month
  • $16.99/3 months
  • $19.99/year

Spotafriend stands out in a crowded market by prioritizing teen safety and genuine connections.

6. HelloTalk – Find Language Partners

HelloTalk blends language learning with social connection. Instead of meeting strangers right away, users build friendships by practicing languages through chat, voice, and video.

The app supports multiple communication formats and includes built-in tools such as translations and dictionary highlights—making it especially useful for travelers and global professionals.

Pricing

• Free, ad-supported version
• VIP membership:
  • $6.99/month
  • $45.99/year

HelloTalk is a strong example of how utility-driven social apps can foster lasting relationships.

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7. Making Authentic Friendships (MAF) – Create Trustworthy Connections

Making Authentic Friendships (MAF) is designed for individuals with autism and ADHD, helping them initiate conversations and form meaningful relationships in a safe environment.

During onboarding, users provide information such as age, location, and diagnosis. The platform then matches users based on compatibility and support needs.

Platform Availability

• Currently a responsive web app
• Mobile app launching soon

MAF demonstrates how inclusive design can create powerful social impact—especially for underserved communities.

8. Alif – Muslim Dating & Friends

Among many making friends apps for muslim out there, Alif aims to build friends and soulmates. Everyone on the platforms creates a high quality profile and puts their best foot forward by using a verification process. Once your profile is approved (typically within 72 hours!), you can start meeting other Muslims!

Pricing plans:

It’s free

Download Alif for iPhone and iPad.

9. Bumble BFF – Dating-inspired Friendship App

Bumble BFF is a unique and user-friendly make friend app designed to help individuals connect with new people and build lasting friendships. A spinoff of the popular dating app Bumble, Bumble BFF uses a similar swiping system to match users with potential friends nearby. Whether you’ve recently moved to a new city, want to expand your social circle, or simply seek like-minded individuals to hang out with, this app provides a fun and efficient way to meet new people.

Upon signing up, users create a profile showcasing their interests and preferences. From there, they can swipe through profiles of potential friends, and if there’s a mutual interest, they can initiate conversations and start getting to know each other better. Bumble BFF makes it easy to discover others with similar hobbies, activities, or life stages, creating opportunities for meaningful connections.

This friend finder app is perfect for anyone looking for a non-dating social networking option, where forming friendships is the main goal. It’s a great platform for those seeking companionship, expanding their social network, or engaging in fun activities with new people in their area.

Pricing plans:

• Free
• The premium membership at Bumble costs $29.99 for one month and goes up to $99.99 for six months.

Overall, Bumble BFF is a fun and easy way to meet new people and expand your social circle.

Download it on Google Play and App Store.

10. Nextdoor – Find Your Friends In Neighborhood

As the name suggests, the social networking app – Nextdoor will help users connect with their neighbor and local community. Besides giving you an opportunity to make new friends, the app is also used for sharing information about local events, news, and safety in your neighborhood. The app offers users to create a profile and join groups based on their interests, message other members of their community and organize events or meetups.

Pricing plans:

It’s free for everyone

Download the app on App Store and Google Play.

11. Peanut – A Networking App For Moms

Peanut provides a platform for women to connect with like-minded individuals, share their experiences, and build a supportive community. By using the app, users can connect with other women who are going through similar experiences, helping to create a sense of solidarity and camaraderie during what can be a challenging time. Whether you’re a new mom looking for advice, a seasoned mom looking to make new friends, or an expectant mother looking to connect with other moms-to-be, Peanut offers a safe and private space to do so.

Pricing plans:

The Peanut app is free to use, but there are optional premium features available for users who choose to pay for them.

Download the app on App Store and Google Play.

12. Twitch – Give Boundless Connectivity

Twitch, widely recognized as the premier platform for live video streaming, isn’t just about watching gameplay—it’s also a powerful make friend app and friend finder app for building connections. Whether you’re into gaming, music, creative arts, or just chatting streams, Twitch provides endless opportunities to meet people who share your passions.

The platform’s real-time interactivity is its highlight. Features like chat rooms during live streams, direct messaging, and community forums allow users to engage with creators and fellow viewers, fostering genuine friendships. You can follow and subscribe to your favorite channels, supporting creators while becoming part of tight-knit communities built around shared interests.

Beyond gaming, Twitch hosts streams on a variety of topics, making it a versatile space for those looking to connect, share, and grow their social circle. Whether you’re finding friends through shared gaming sessions or participating in vibrant discussions, Twitch turns digital interaction into meaningful relationships.

Pricing plans:

It’s free for any user.

Download the app on App Store and Google Play.

13. Wink – Make Unlimited Friends

Another unmissable social app that allow users to connect with others and make new friends is Wink. The app uses a swipe-based interface, similar to dating apps like Tinder or Bumble, to help users discover new connections. Users can swipe through profiles and send messages to those they are interested in getting to know better. Wink also offers a range of features designed to facilitate real-life meetups, such as group chats, local events, and the ability to create and join interest-based clubs.

Pricing plans:

The Wink app is free to download and use. However, there are in-app purchases in the app. Payment details, like a credit card, are needed for these optional features.

Download the app on App Store and Google Play.

14. Friender – Create New Friendships

Friender is an innovative friend finder app designed to help users forge meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. Leveraging a smart matching algorithm, Friender suggests potential friends based on shared interests, hobbies, and personality traits, ensuring compatibility and a strong foundation for genuine friendships. Users can swipe through profiles and start messaging to explore common ground and build rapport.

What sets Friender apart is its emphasis on facilitating real-life interactions. The app features local events and interest-based groups, providing opportunities for users to meet in person and turn online connections into lasting friendships. Whether you’re looking to expand your social circle, meet new people after moving to a new city, or simply find someone who shares your passions, Friender is the go-to platform for authentic and rewarding friendships.

Pricing plans:

It’s free to download and use.

Download the app on App Store and Google Play.

15. LMK – Build New Connections

With the functions of connecting people and making new friends through a range of interactive features, LMK is an excellent social app for you to try. The app offers a variety of games and quizzes designed to help users break the ice and get to know each other better, as well as group chats and forums for ongoing conversations. LMK also offers safety features to protect users from unwanted attention, such as the ability to block and report other users. 

Pricing plans:

• Free to download and use
• LMK Premium offers additional features with the payment plan of monthly (9.99/month), 3 months (6.67/month), and 6 months (4.99/month) subscription options.

Download the app on App Store and Google Play.

16. Patook – A Unique Make Friend App for Genuine Connections

Patook is a standout make friend app designed specifically for those who want to build meaningful, platonic relationships without the complications of romantic or superficial interactions. Unlike other apps that may blur the lines between friendship and dating, Patook enforces strict anti-flirting policies, creating a safe and welcoming space for users. The app uses an innovative points system, allowing users to rate interests and attributes to find the most compatible matches for genuine friendships.

With a user-friendly interface, Patook lets you connect with like-minded people based on shared interests, hobbies, and proximity. It’s particularly popular among individuals who value deep conversations, mutual respect, and the joy of meeting new friends. Whether you’re new to a city, looking to expand your social circle, or simply interested in meeting people who share your passions, Patook makes the process seamless and enjoyable.

This make friend app is ideal for anyone seeking authentic connections in a digital world, proving that technology can indeed foster genuine human relationships.

17. Skout – Friend Finder App for Social Explorers

Skout is a versatile make friend app and friend finder app that opens up a world of social possibilities, connecting people from all corners of the globe. With its intuitive design and location-based technology, Skout makes it easy to discover and interact with new friends nearby or in far-off destinations. Whether you’re looking to expand your local social circle, find travel buddies, or meet people who share your hobbies, Skout caters to a diverse range of social needs.

One of the standout features of Skout is its “Shake to Chat” function, which randomly connects users for a fun and serendipitous interaction. The app also includes features like live streaming, virtual gifts, and photo sharing, making it engaging and dynamic for users seeking authentic connections. Skout’s global reach means you can effortlessly meet people from different cultures, broadening your perspective while forming meaningful friendships.

Perfect for anyone eager to connect in today’s fast-paced digital age, Skout combines convenience, excitement, and a genuine sense of community, solidifying its position as a top choice for those searching for a friend finder app that goes beyond the ordinary

18. Hey! VINA – Friend Finder App for Women

Hey! VINA is a revolutionary make friend app and friend finder app designed exclusively for women, empowering them to connect, collaborate, and build meaningful friendships. Often referred to as the “Tinder for female friendships,” this app provides a safe and supportive platform for women to meet like-minded individuals, whether they’re looking for workout buddies, career mentors, or travel companions.

What sets Hey! VINA apart is its personalized approach to matching. Using a swipe-based interface, users can explore profiles based on shared interests, mutual friends, and lifestyle preferences. The app also features engaging quizzes that help refine compatibility, ensuring users are matched with friends who truly resonate with their personalities and goals.

Hey! VINA doesn’t stop at matchmaking—it fosters an inclusive community where women can participate in groups, events, and discussions to further expand their social networks. The app’s emphasis on empowering women to connect and thrive makes it a standout choice for those seeking a reliable friend finder app that champions camaraderie and support. Perfect for newcomers in a city, solo travelers, or anyone seeking genuine connections, Hey! VINA transforms the way women approach friendship in the digital age.

19. We3 – Friend Finder App for Building Meaningful Trios

We3 takes a fresh and innovative approach to social networking as a making friend app, connecting people not one-on-one, but in groups of three. The app is designed to foster genuine, platonic friendships by matching individuals based on shared interests, values, and personality traits, ensuring compatibility and meaningful connections.

What makes We3 stand out is its focus on group dynamics. By forming “trios” of like-minded individuals, the app reduces the pressure of one-on-one interactions and creates a more natural and relaxed environment for building friendships. Users begin by taking a scientifically backed quiz that evaluates their preferences, beliefs, and hobbies, allowing the app’s algorithm to suggest highly compatible matches.

Privacy and safety are prioritized, with We3 offering anonymous introductions and ensuring only verified users can participate. The app is ideal for those looking to expand their social circle, especially in new cities or during major life transitions. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply someone eager to meet others with similar passions, We3 is the friend finder app that transforms the way we connect in today’s digital age.

20. Atleto – The Sports-Driven Make Friend App

For those who love sports and fitness, Atleto is the ultimate make friend app and friend finder app designed to connect active individuals through shared athletic interests. Atleto’s mission is to create a community of sports enthusiasts, making it easier than ever to find workout buddies, join local games, or discover new training partners.

The app works by allowing users to create a detailed profile that highlights their favorite sports, skill levels, and availability. Whether you’re into running, yoga, basketball, or even niche sports like pickleball, Atleto helps you find like-minded athletes nearby. Its matchmaking feature ensures compatibility, pairing users with others who share similar goals and activity levels.

One standout feature is the ability to organize and join group events. From casual meetups to competitive matches, Atleto brings people together to not only stay active but also build lasting friendships. It’s particularly useful for newcomers to a city or anyone looking to reignite their love for sports with a supportive community.

Atleto isn’t just about fitness—it’s about fostering connections that go beyond the field or gym. It’s the perfect app for those who want to combine staying healthy with meeting amazing people in their area.

Conclusion

The business of love and making friends are all set to bloom in the times to come, especially in the post of COVID-19. Added to its bright prospects, tailwind factors like untapped markets, the increased spending power of the millennials, delay in life milestones as well as longer working hours, the future seems bright for the making-friends apps industry.

As you can see, there are a large number of making friends apps in the market. What to make your future app unique? Here are 10 ideas you can bring to your friendships app to make it shine:

• App based on birth horoscope
• Friendship app based on hobbies and passions
• App to make friends that takes cultural background into account

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