By Sohini Podder (Reuters) - Bumble Inc on Wednesday said it expects pent up demand from people who had been avoiding dating in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic, after it reported a bigger-than-expected rise in fourth-quarter revenue. Dating apps have benefited from social distancing restrictions that made people yearn for company as casual gatherings with friends and family became a rarity. The company said it will build its friendship product Bumble BFF beyond its minimum viable offering as it expects friendships and platonic relationships at large to be a massive opportunity going forward. Texas-based Bumble expects current quarter revenue to be in the range of $163 million and $165 million.
Searching for love in the pandemic? NJ matchmaker has advice
But don t give up. Love is out there. You just need to know where to look.
Lauren Conaghan, director of New Jersey Singles, a personalized matchmaking service, says it s been harder for people to meet others while being stuck at home during the pandemic. But one thing she s noticed is that New Jerseyans are taking better stock of their lives these days.
While online dating is fine if people want to have a cyber relationship during the pandemic, there are others who desperately need a social life and want to meet someone special. Matchmaking is a great way to go because all profiles are done in person, she said. All questions, from physical preferences to compatible traits, are asked so that matches should be spot on when two people get together.