When shopping for a Valentine's Day gift for the woman in your life, remember that romance doesn't stem from the amount of money you spend (or the number of stems in the bouquet).

The real sparks fly when your gift shows that you pay attention. Think about what type of gift could satisfy her latest obsession, or what type of gift could alleviate her latest pet peeve. Of course, heart-shaped or romantic Valentine's Day gifts are never a bad idea — we're just here to make sure they're not too cliché. Here are our picks for the best Valentine's Day gifts for her in 2026. Thoughtful, practical, whimsical, or appropriately mushy, these unique gift ideas go beyond the classic flowers and jewelry that you've already thought of.

What to know before you swipe

My number one rule is to be brutally honest about what you’re looking for. You’re here for a good time, not a long time — so own it. That also means staying in your lane; don't go looking for a one-night stand on an app like eharmony.

"Hookup apps help prevent situations where people are on mainstream dating sites with the intention of having a casual hookup but are unclear about these intentions," Suzannah Weiss, resident sexologist for Biird and author of Subjectified: Becoming a Sexual Subject, tells Mashable. "They also give women a space to be openly sexual creatures without judgment."

This safe space is more important than ever. According to Feeld, "heteroflexible" is the fastest-growing sexuality (up 193 percent), and interest in kinks like pegging has surged by 200 percent. People are getting more curious, and these apps are the playground where you can explore those specific desires without the awkwardness of bringing them up at a bar.

And here's a little insider secret I picked up from Alexander Liebisch, the CEO and founder of TinderProfile.ai: Timing is everything. He found that people messaging on Tinder's "free tonight" feature after 10 p.m. on a weekend had a 45 percent higher chance of hooking up.

So, whether you're looking for a one-night stand, a regular FWB situation, or just a space to explore your sexuality, I've got you covered. Based on all my hands-on testing and expert consultations, I’ve broken down the best hookup app for every type of person and mood.

Recent updates to this guide

• Hinge: Hinge just keeps getting better, so I’ve bumped it up higher on my list as of October 2025. Its user base is growing, and my own recent tests on the app have been surprisingly positive.

• Sniffies (added September 2025): I've added Sniffies, the map-based app for queer men, because it's been gaining a lot of traction. (It got a little too spicy for Apple and was pulled from the App Store, so it's now technically a dating site.) Don't say I didn't warn you about the NSFW content.

• FetLife (added September 2025): FetLife is my new favorite "Honorable Mention." It's not your typical hookup app; it's more of a social network for the kink community (and, oddly enough, the best hookup app for gamers). Just remember: it's a community, so don't treat it like Tinder.

Why some popular hookup apps didn't make the cut

You might notice a few apps that pop up in ads or other lists are missing here. That’s intentional. I swipe through the good, the bad, and the downright sketchy so you don’t have to. For an app to make my list, it has to be effective, safe, and worth your time.

Here's a shortlist of apps that didn't make the cut this year:

• Wild: You’ve probably seen ads for this one. On paper, Wild sounds like the perfect casual dating app. In practice, the paywalls are aggressive, the distance filter doesn't work, and you have to pay for anything that's even remotely useful. Unless you're willing to spend serious cash upfront (and hope for the best), the experience feels limited compared to more open apps like Tinder.

• DOWN: This app (formerly "Bang With Friends") is known for its simple "Get Down" vs. "Get Date" feature. It sounds clever, but in reality, the experience is messy at best. Many users report feeling scammed by subscriptions that don't deliver matches, or finding that the few real people on there are... let's say "odd." It’s hard to recommend an app when the main user complaint is "Is anyone real?" Hard pass.

• Facebook Dating: Yes, Facebook has a dating section, and it’s surprisingly massive (and completely free, which is huge). While it's a decent option for casual dating, the vibe tends to be a bit more "friends of friends" and "relationship-focused" than the anonymous, no-strings energy you get from apps like Pure or Feeld. (For Mashable's Chance Townsend, signing up was "the most uneventful dating experience" of his life.) It's worth a shot if you're already on Facebook, but it didn't quite crack my top tier for hookups specifically.

Apps I've cut from the list

• Plenty of Fish (removed January 2025): POF went through a rebrand recently, and honestly, I'm not impressed. My latest tests showed they got rid of key features like free messaging for non-matches, and I kept running into the same old profiles. At the end of the day, it just doesn't offer anything special that other apps aren't already doing better, so it's off the list.

• Match (removed August 2025): I know some people say they've found casual hookups on Match, but that's not what it's for. Match is where you go to find a serious, long-term relationship, and I still recommend it for that. But for a hookup? You're just fishing in the wrong pond, so I've removed it from this guide to avoid any confusion.

Long before social media feeds or targeted ads, my mother used to say that life tends to show you the thing you're looking for. Or the thing you're afraid of. Or the thing you keep insisting you don't want.

If you were trying to get pregnant, suddenly everyone around you was pregnant. If you wanted out of your relationship, magazines on the grocery store rack were filled with tips on "spicing up your marriage." If you were single, you noticed couples everywhere.

At the time, it felt like a kind of folk psychology, an observation about attention, projection, and the stories we tell ourselves during moments of transition. Nothing mystical. Just the mind's tendency to organize the world around its current preoccupations.

But today, that feeling is no longer just in our heads — it's computational, built into the systems we use every day. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Google don't just reflect what we notice; they actively infer who we are and what comes next, based on demographics such as age and gender, as well as behavioral patterns. And once they decide what life stage you're in, they keep showing it to you, whether it fits or not.

Across social platforms, users describe being quietly ushered through a narrow, linear life script, one that often resembles something like dating → engagement → wedding → pregnancy → parenting. These systems assume users are progressing along an expected trajectory. When lives diverge from that path, for instance, after a breakup, during infertility, following divorce, or by choice, the algorithm often fails to recalibrate.

What looks like a coincidence or annoyance is something more structural: platforms building a version of identity that won't update, even as a person's life changes.

Trapped in a life phase you never chose

On social platforms, users may still encounter content they don't want, despite repeatedly muting keywords or clicking "not interested." Research shows that recommendation algorithms often rely far more on implicit engagement, such as watch time and clicks, than on explicit feedback signals, like hiding or muting, meaning the system can continue serving the life someone once searched for — or was assumed to want.

Elizabeth Losh, a media theorist, digital rhetoric scholar, and professor of English and American Studies at the College of William and Mary, said this persistence is rooted in how recommendation systems are built.

"Sites like TikTok and Instagram depend on targeted advertising and data harvesting models that emphasize demographic segmentation," said Losh, who is also the author of Selfie Democracy: The New Digital Politics of Disruption and Insurrection. "[They] slice and dice audiences by gender, age, political loyalties, and other categories, manufacturing needs and desires for each stage of life."

Those stages often reflect cultural expectations rather than real user diversity. Advertisers treat transitions like marriage, fertility, and parenting as high-value consumption moments, incentivizing platforms to sort users into life-phase categories that are difficult to exit once assigned.

"You can see how those assumptions get locked in," Losh said. "The persuasive power of the recommendation algorithms themselves continues to reinforce standardized life trajectories."

How the algorithm decides who you are

Platforms rarely explain how they infer a user's "life phase," but scrolling itself is data.

TikTok has acknowledged that time spent watching a video is weighted more heavily than most other signals in its recommendation system. Even a pause due to curiosity, confusion, or discomfort can be interpreted as interest. Once a system associates a user with a category, similar content can quickly snowball.

Lauren Klein, professor of Data & Decision Sciences and English at Emory University and co-author of Data Feminism, says these inferences reflect historic gender norms far more than neutral "user data."

"In many cases, age and gender are the only data points companies know about their users," Klein said. "In the absence of [a] meaningful signal, designers default to what they assume someone of a particular age and gender would want to see."

Those assumptions are shaped by long-standing cultural expectations about users' lives, including those around beauty, partnership, reproduction, and caregiving.

Because recommendation and ad systems are profit-driven, Klein added, there is little incentive to challenge defaults that appear to perform well.

"These companies are motivated by their own bottom line," she said. "If default life-phase content seems to generate engagement or purchases, there's no obligation to consider other desires or preferences."

When the TikTok feed contradicts reality

Emerging research suggests that algorithmic systems do more than match users with content; they're also shaping people's identities. 

Researchers describe this phenomenon as "algorithmic persistence," in which systems continue to serve content tied to a presumed identity long after it is no longer applicable. Klein notes that because recommender systems are optimized for engagement rather than accuracy, they have little incentive to recalibrate unless user behavior changes significantly, something many people don't know how to do, or even realize is necessary.

"There's an added social reinforcement mechanism," Klein said, adding that users already receive constant messages about what they should care about. "The algorithm amplifies that pressure."

Over time, this creates a kind of ambient discipline, technology nudging users toward a version of adulthood they might not want, can't access, or have already outgrown.

"The isolation of personal scrolling is a kind of 'technology of the self,'" Losh said. "It subtly encourages people to regulate themselves according to dominant social scripts."

Performance, play, and structural limits

If algorithmic persistence explains why users get "stuck" seeing irrelevant content, performance helps explain why pushing back doesn't necessarily free them.

Short-form video platforms are built around visibility and play. Users duet, stitch, parody, and perform alternative selves. Queer creators experiment with gender; others engage in what Losh calls "generation-swapping," performing exaggerated versions of parents or elders. Comedy and remix culture offer highly legible ways to critique dominant life scripts.

That visibility is not meaningless. Losh notes that these platforms have created space for experiences once considered rare or invisible: intersex parents documenting their lives, people speaking openly about ectopic pregnancy or asexuality, sex workers sharing the unglamorous realities of their labor. Other forms of relational storytelling — like content about lavender marriages or the rise of "guncles" — quietly challenge heteronormative family scripts through humor and affection rather than argument.

But visibility, Losh cautions, is not the same as structural change. Even as platforms become increasingly adept at identifying and amplifying counter-narratives, they continue to circulate within algorithms optimized to sort users into marketable categories. That means wedding content becomes queer wedding content, or family content becomes nontraditional family content. The identity may shift, but the life-phase logic remains intact. In that sense, personalization doesn't eliminate the script so much as adapt it.

Within recommendation systems, critique does not reliably trigger corrections. Because engagement itself is the primary signal — watch time, interaction, repetition — even content meant to challenge a life-cycle narrative can be absorbed as evidence of interest in it. A parody of wedding culture may still be logged as engagement with wedding content; a rebuttal to parenting norms may circulate alongside the very material it critiques.

Why is it so hard to reset your algorithm?

Algorithmic identity is not something users can update with a single click. Training data reflects the past. Profit incentives favor broad categories. And recommender systems are built to optimize engagement loops, not to reflect the complex, nonlinear lives of their users.

Designing for people who don't want children, who co-parent, who are queer or polyamorous, or who move in and out of relationships requires time, care, and a willingness to challenge default assumptions.

"It takes more work to design for users at the margins," Klein said. "But those users often reveal where systems break down."

When asked what a more feminist or equitable recommender system might look like, Klein was skeptical.

"I'm not sure there's such a thing as a feminist advertising mechanism," she said. "But one feminist principle we can take seriously is refusal."

For platforms, that would mean letting users opt out of targeted ads, allowing them to withhold their age or gender without penalty, avoiding punitive privacy defaults, and giving users ways to signal life changes without automatically triggering new assumptions.

For now, most platforms offer limited transparency and little meaningful control.

Living with the algorithmic lag

The algorithm lags behind real life. It clings to who someone was — or who it decided they were — because updating that identity is less profitable than nudging it forward.

For users, that lag often mirrors the same narrow life script society has long imposed. What's new isn't the pressure, it's the infrastructure delivering it.

The feed doesn't reflect reality. It reinforces a familiar script — whether it fits or not.

UP TO 50% OFF: As of Jan. 21, you can get up to 50% off select Satisfyer toys at Amazon, including the cult-fave Satisfyer Pro 2 and the Double Joy.

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If you’re looking for an excuse to get yourself a *little treat*, now’s the time to do it. With V-Day on the horizon, hundreds of sex toy retailers have hard-launched holiday sales (some New Year’s discounts are still lingering, too), making it a great time to buy a new vibrator, dildo, cock ring, or whatever else gets you going.

Even Satisfyer, the brand famous for its air-pulse tech, is offering up to 50% off select toys via its Amazon storefront. Right now, you can score some of its most popular models, including the oh-so-famous Satisfyer Pro 2 and the Satisfyer Double Joy, at a hefty discount.

If you haven’t heard of the Satisfyer Pro 2, let me enlighten you. This tiny but mighty toy has more than 59K reviews on Amazon and an overall rating of 4 stars. I own this toy, and while it’s not my go-to, I’ve never been disappointed with its performance. It’s powerful, compact, easy to hold, and travel-friendly. (It also looks like a facial cleansing brush, so if you accidentally leave it on your vanity, your guests will be none the wiser.) Plus, the reviews are hilarious. I def recommend giving them a read if you have time.

Satisfyer has other toys, too (if you’re not into air-pulse stimulation). The Double Joy, for example, is a top-rated couples toy that connects to the Satisfyer app. It’s a waterproof wearable vibrator designed for every body for internal and external stimulation. The brand also sells male masturbators and butt plugs. So, if you’re on a budget, there’s probably a toy in this sale that’ll get you there without breaking the bank.

There comes a time when paying for a dating app just isn't in the budget anymore, and it's time to cancel your subscription. If you're a Bumble user forking over cash monthly for Boost, Premium, or Premium+, and you don't want to anymore, here's how to cancel. The method will depend on how you subscribed.

How to cancel Bumble subscription through the app

Choose this method if you're using Apple Pay, a credit or debit card, or PayPal

Total Time

• 2 minutes

What You Need

• Bumble app

Step 1: Open the Bumble app

Step 2: Tap your profile icon

Credit: Screenshot: Bumble

Step 3: Go to "Subscription details"

Step 4: Tap "Manage your subscription" and choose to cancel

How to cancel Bumble through the App Store

If you subscribed to Bumble through the App Store, try this.

Total Time

• 2 minutes

What You Need

• iPhone

Step 1: Open Settings on your iPhone, then tap your name

Step 2: Go to Subscriptions and select Bumble

Credit: Screenshot: Apple

Step 3: Tap "Cancel Subscription"

Credit: Screenshot: Apple

How to cancel Bumble subscription through Google Play

If you subscribed through Google Play on your Android, use this method to cancel.

TL;DR: Unblock Pornhub from Indiana with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

More than a third of U.S. states still have restrictions in place for online adult content, leaving users searching for a solution.

Millions of users in Indiana are unable to access popular sites like Pornhub after the introduction of age verification laws. The reasons for this situation are complicated, but the workaround is quick and easy. In just a few simple steps, users in Indiana can secure access to Pornhub without spending anything.

If you want to unblock porn sites like Pornhub for free from Indiana, we have all the information you need.

How to unblock Pornhub for free in Indiana

VPNs are useful tools that can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other locations. This straightforward process bypasses geo-restrictions so you can access sites like Pornhub from anywhere in the world.

Unblock Pornhub by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to Pornhub

4. Visit Pornhub

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Credit: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan)

$12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee)

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The best VPNs for unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free-trial peiods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Pornhub without actually spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you the opportunity to temporarily retain access to Pornhub before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to sites like Pornhub, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for bypassing content restrictions is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for Pornhub?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking porn sites like Pornhub, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Unblock Pornhub for free in Indiana with ExpressVPN.

What dating apps are completely free?

Mainstream dating apps like Tinder, OkCupid, and Hinge all have robust free membership tiers that compete with paid subscriptions. Some free, more niche dating apps, like Archer and Lex, are also worth checking out. It just depends on what you're looking for and how much work you're willing to put in to get it.

These days, some people argue that big-name dating apps (read: Match Group apps, such as Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge) are all the same and have formed a single, amorphous dating platform. However, these apps still have distinct differences between them, as you can see below. 

And even though a lot of daters want to meet someone IRL, let's face it: Dating apps aren't going anywhere. Whether you're an introvert, a college student, or just looking for some steamy sexting action, we've got you covered.

Below, find our top picks for the best free dating apps. Use them to find your forever partner, a casual encounter, or something in between — all without paying a dime.

Note: All the free dating sites listed below offer a free membership option that allows you to talk and match with people at no cost. Though most offer paid premium memberships, these aren't apps like Match or eharmony, where you need to pay to match or chat with other users.

TL;DR: Unblock Pornhub from anywhere in the world with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

Access to Pornhub is in turmoil. Early in 2025, more than a third of U.S. states introduced age verification laws. In response, Pornhub banned visitors from those states from accessing their website. The same situation then took place in France, and although Pornhub is complying with the UK's age verification law, users are now required to provide personal information to access the site.

The situation is constantly changing, but you can stay one step ahead with a quick and easy hack. If you want to unblock porn sites like Pornhub for free from anywhere in the world, we have the information you need.

How to unblock Pornhub for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure server in another location. This process bypasses geo-restrictions so you can access adult sites like Pornhub from anywhere in the world.

Unblock Pornhub by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to Pornhub

4. Visit Pornhub

Opens in a new window

Credit: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan)

$12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee)

Get Deal

The best VPNs for unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free-trial peiods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Pornhub without actually spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you the opportunity to temporarily retain access to Pornhub before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to your favorite site, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for bypassing online restrictions is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for Pornhub?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking porn sites like Pornhub, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $78.18 and includes an extra four months for free — 78% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Unblock Pornhub for free with ExpressVPN.

Tea, the platform designed for women to discuss the men they date and potential "red flags," is relaunching today — but it won't be on the App Store.

Tea is part of an online ecosystem of whisper networks for women to find information ("tea") on potential suitors, similar to Are We Dating the Same Guy Facebook groups. Last July, Tea made headlines when two hacks exposed thousands of user images (including selfies and photos of ID cards like drivers' licenses) as well as personal chats and phone numbers. Then, in October, Apple removed Tea from the App Store (as well as its rival app for men, TeaOnHer) for not meeting its content moderation and user privacy requirements.

Now, Tea is back as a website: app.teaforwomen.com. 

Asked about how Tea intends on protecting users following the 2025 leaks, Tea's vice president of trust and safety, Jessica Dees, told Mashable, "We have taken meaningful steps to strengthen the platform's safety and security posture, including enhancing internal safeguards, reinforcing access controls, and implementing additional review and monitoring processes designed to protect sensitive information and support responsible participation."

Credit: Tea

Dees went on to say that the relaunch "reflects a deliberate focus on strengthening and expanding access to Tea's safety and verification tools while reinforcing accountability across the platform." Following the incidents, Tea began working with third-party security teams to understand how they occurred and implemented additional security controls.

Screenshots of the website experience shared with Mashable make the website appear Instagram-like, featuring images of men alongside captions about women's (usually negative) experiences with them, complete with comments from other users. You can even react with green or red flags.

As for Android users, Tea remained on Google Play despite the App Store removal and is still available to download. Tea also announced today that the Android app is getting new community features: an "elevated" forum experience with interactive spaces like a virtual speakeasy and an in-app AI dating coach. According to images shared with Mashable, the AI dating coach chats are "private and secure," and an upcoming feature is the ability to use the AI to analyze the vibes of a dating app conversation (like "playful" and "casual").

Credit: Tea

Credit: Tea

Online whisper networks, often led by women, have emerged in the dating app era as users encounter bad actors, ranging from scammers to assaulters. They're unlikely to go away, but whether women will come back to Tea following what happened last year remains to be seen.

UP TO 70% OFF: Lovehoney's Valentine's Day Sale is live. Get up to 50% off select sex toys (including vibrators, male masturbators, and butt plugs), $25 and under lingerie, and a free gift when you spend $89 or more. Bonus: You can still get up to 70% off clearance items.

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Credit: Lovehoney

Lovehoney Valentine's Day Sale

Get up to 50% off select sex toys and more

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Valentine’s Day is exactly one month away, and if you haven’t planned anything yet, now’s the time to do it. Tons of sex toy retailers still have New Year’s sales going on, but Lovehoney is getting a head start on V-Day with discounts on vibrators, lingerie, and more.

PSA: You don’t have to have a partner to buy yourself a little treat for V-Day. Valentine’s is for everyone, and sometimes, having a sexy solo date at home is the best way to celebrate.

Here’s the lowdown on how to get the best bang for your buck.

Select vibes are up to 50% off

Lovehoney still has quite a few items that aren’t on sale, but the dedicated sale page and clearance section have hundreds of products available for unbelievable (not to be dramatic) prices. For example, you can get the Lovehoney Romance Gift Set (12 Piece) for just $129 — that’s 60% off the list price and a damn good deal for a 12-piece set that includes heavy hitters like the We-Vibe Jive 2. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more festive, the Lovehoney Rose (with 1,500+ reviews) is only $42.99.

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Credit: Lovehoney

Lovehoney Romance Gift Set (12 Piece)

$129 at Lovehoney
$321.88 Save $192.88

 

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Credit: Lovehoney

Lovehoney Rose Clitoral Suction Stimulator

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Lingerie is $25 and under

Believe it or not, lingerie is a super effective way to get in the mood, whether you’re alone or with a partner. An everything shower, some candles, and a new set of sexy lace (or whatever you’re into) is the perfect setup for a saucy evening (or afternoon!).

Right now, Lovehoney has a wide selection of intimate apparel, from teddies to crotchless bodysuits to “wet look” BDSM-inspired sets, all available for $25 and under. I’m literally adding this Escante Stretchy Wet Look Body Set to my cart as we speak.

Get up to 70% off clearance, plus a free gift

The clearance section has even steeper deals. Some standouts include the ROMP Switch for $24.99, the Womanizer Starlet 2 for $39.99, and many, many more. And, if you spend $89 (which shouldn’t be hard to do), you’ll get a free gift. This could be a Lovehoney dildo, G-spot vibrator, bullet, textured stroker, or butt plug. (There are also a few Fifty Shades of Grey items on offer.)

Score free shipping when you spend $59+

One thing to love about Lovehoney is that they keep things low-key. Every order is sent in plain, discreet packaging, so your nosey neighbors won't have a clue what’s inside.

If you're aiming for that Feb. 14 deadline, keep in mind that standard shipping is free when you spend $59 or more. It usually takes about four to six working days to arrive, so ordering now means you won't be sweating it out as the holiday gets closer.

Sexting can be pretty fun and downright hot if done right. The rub is that the act can also be an awkward minefield. Thoughts may cross your mind, like: Is now a good time to sext? What do I even say?

To answer these questions, we asked the sexperts. As it turns out, sexting (like sex itself) is an opportunity for you to liberate yourself, explore what you want in bed, and get to know your partner better.

How to sext

Sexting can benefit both you and your budding relationship (or hookup, or however you define it).

By sharing your desires and boundaries together, you're forging a deeper connection. Texting feels lower stakes than talking in person, especially if your relationship is new. Thus, it's a great option if you're shy about sex and have difficulty vocalizing what you want, said Casey Tanner, a certified sex therapist and then a sex expert for toy brand LELO.

Make no mistake, though: Sexting is legitimate communication, even if it's through screens.

Sending saucy messages back and forth can even be a kind of foreplay. It can build suspense and anticipation for when you see each other in person next, even if that won't be anytime soon.

How to ask for consent while sexting

Before anything else, get consent — both about sexting in general and for individual sessions.

Ask yourself if you trust your partner enough to sext, advised Edwina Caito, a head writer at sex/sex toy blog BedBible. Decide if you're comfortable with the activity in the first place.

If yes, Tanner offered more questions to self-reflect: Is your style more flirty, raunchy, or suggestive? Are you OK sending nudes, and if so, what body parts do you want to photograph?

Have conversations about these boundaries before your first roll around in the digital hay. Set ground rules, said Caito, whether they be time-related — such as, don't send nudes before 6 p.m. when someone may be at work — or about what kind of media and messages you will and won't send.

You can even set a boundary for which messaging services you prefer to use to sext. Apps like Snapchat and Signal have features like disappearing chats, and the former sends a notification when the other person screenshots your messages. Alternatively, turn on Instagram's vanish mode for the same features.

As sexuality educator Jamie J. LeClaire wrote for sex wellness shop Unbound's blog, set an expectation for language used in sexts, too. If you're uncomfortable with some words — say ones that describe genitalia — tell your partner, and encourage them to share any words they dislike in turn.

Furthermore, consent at one time doesn't extend to every time. Always make sure it's OK to send through a naughty text or photo before doing it. A tip from Unbound is having a go-to emoji that serves as a way to ask, "Is now a good time for you to receive some smut?"

And never, ever share messages or other media that a partner sent to you (unless they ask you to, that is).

Sexting is a lower-stakes way to express your desires to your partner. Credit: Bob Al-Greene / Mashable

How to start sexting conversations

Tanner advised keeping your messages pithy if you're just starting out. "Keeping messages on the shorter side gives you a little more leeway to ease into something new," she said. "You also give yourself more space to reflect in between texts about what feels good and where your boundaries are."

Your first message can be coy while sparking your partner's interest and making them think (about you, or an experience you both had in the past).

A couple of examples Caito gave to get things rolling are:

• "I'm lying in bed and can't stop thinking about you."

• "I can't stop thinking about what we did the other night."

Another option is to ask your partner questions, like:

• "What would you do if you were here right now?"

• "What was your favorite part about the other night?"

These texts are suggestive enough to gauge how your partner feels at the moment and get the conversation going. Feel free to be more direct if that's your style, though. You can let your partner know that, say, you've just gotten out of the shower and haven't put anything on yet. There's also the classic, "What are you wearing?"

Tips for great sexting

Now that you're engaging in textual coitus, where do you go from here?

Be as explicit as you want to be. You don't need to even refer to actual body parts if you don't want to, euphemistically or not. "I'm so wet" has the same impact as literally describing the state of your crotch, for instance.

Caroline Spiegel, founder of audio porn site Quinn, suggests contextualizing your sexy messages by telling your partner how you feel about them, what you want to do with them, and what you believe are their hottest features.

You can ask your partner to share fantasies, but don't feel pressure to reveal everything about your sexuality in one go, said Tanner. Texting your partner that they'll "just have to wait and see" can be just as tantalizing as revealing your desires.

To that end, you don't need to talk about activities you don't want to do. Instead, guide the conversation back to what gets you going, said Caito.

Compliment your partner, said Spiegel, to show you're really paying attention to them. Some examples she said are:

• "I love the way you look at me when you…"

• "I can't stop thinking about that time when you said…"

Another tip of Spiegel's is to use your partner's actual name as opposed to a pet name. "You might be surprised how hot it is to be called by your real name in a spicy context," she said.

How to send sexy voice notes and videos

Texts are great, but you can also incorporate different mediums to produce a multimedia sexting experience.

With iMessage and WhatsApp, for instance, you can send sexy voice notes. "I hear all the time from women how they wish their boyfriends or significant others would send audio notes or videos instead of dick pics," said Spiegel.

Hearing your partner's voice can be encouraging ("such a hot photo"). Cursing can also go a long way.

You can send photos and videos as well, or even take it to FaceTime if texting just isn't enough. And, of course, GIFs and emoji are easy options if words just can't express what you want to get across.

Caito also suggested an app-controlled sex toy your partner can handle if you're long-distance...but it's a toss-up on whether they'll work. As former Mashable reporter Jess Joho found, Bluetooth sex toys may have more connectivity problems than they're worth.

As with physical sex, it may take time to get in a sexting groove with a partner, and that's OK. The more you communicate your desires, whether vocal or over text, the easier it'll get.

Sexting can be a place to explore fantasies and get creative, said Tanner — all from the comfort of your fingertips.

This article was first published in 2021 and republished in 2026.

UP TO 50% OFF: As of Jan. 9, you can get up to 50% off select items at Nancy, including the Lem clitoral massager and the Pixie remote-controlled panty vibrator.

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Credit: Nancy

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If you haven’t made any New Year’s resolutions yet, here’s an idea: Make a commitment to self-care by snagging yourself a new vibe at Nancy. (Yes, it’s kind of an odd name, but the vibrators are super cute, super powerful, and half off!) Plus, the less-intimidating shapes make for really great beginner vibes for anyone who’s nervous about buying their first sex toy.

As of Jan. 9, you can get up to 50% off select items at Nancy. The Lem Clitoral Massager, which is easily the cutest thing I own, is down to $89, from its usual $159. That’s a $70 price cut on a top-rated clitoral massager. Bonus: Once you add it to your cart, a “free mystery gift” will appear. It’s not clear what the gift is, but it's worth $9.99, so it could be lube or a storage bag.

I can personally vouch for the Lem; it’s tiny, discreet, and just really well-designed. If you want to go all out, the Oh-Oh-Oh Triple Bundle (which includes the Lem, the Uno, and the Lolly Mini Wand is currently $199, down from $399. You’re basically getting three for the price of one.

The best part about Nancy is that everything ships in discreet packaging, and shipping is free worldwide. They also have a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re on the fence about trying a new shape, there’s really no risk. The sale is in its final minutes, though, so I wouldn’t wait too long if you’ve got your eye on something.

Posting content on OnlyFans is far from easy money, as several creators told Mashable last year, and the average creator only raked in around $1,300 in 2023. That being said, there are high earners on the platform — like Tiffany Wisconsin, who only started shooting adult content five years ago. 

Wisconsin (who goes by either Tiffany Wisconsin or Wisconsin Tiffany) typically earns upwards of $100,000 per month on OnlyFans (and supplied a screenshot of her November 2025 earnings to Mashable as proof). Wisconsin spoke to Mashable about what it takes to earn this much, including seeking help and staying consistent.

Upselling on OnlyFans

Wisconsin started posting solo bikini photos on OnlyFans in 2021, and in 2023 began shooting explicit content (meaning, having sex with other people on camera — and Wisconsin sometimes has sex with multiple people for a video, called a "gang bang"). But even though Wisconsin films hardcore porn, she believes that shooting solo content can produce a lot of cash. 

"I think it's all up to how you're selling your content, because you could do solo stuff," she said in an interview with Mashable. "As long as you know how to sell it, if you can upsell."

Wisconsin creates personalized content for an upcharge, which can involve degrading her fans, sexting, and sending spicy Snapchats. "I do a lot of upselling, and that will make a huge difference."

The importance of social media

OnlyFans famously lacks a search function, though, resulting in a lack of discoverability on the platform. So Wisconsin, like many adult content creators, posts on mainstream social media platforms to promote herself.

"Rage bait seems to work the best for me," Wisconsin said, referring to content designed to elicit anger. While not everyone is into it, she finds that it performs well. "I figured out what makes people react, and then it gets subscribers."

Sometimes she doesn't like doing rage bait, because people believe that's how she really is — but it's just for views, and it generates money for her. An example is a caption on an Instagram Reel where Wisconsin wrote that a man went broke because of her, and he put her in will. 

"I just made it up," she said, "and I got so many views and so many subscribers," she said, and even got into a porn niche: financial domination, when customers get aroused by the idea of Wisconsin taking all their money.

"I didn't even intentionally do that," she said, but she decided to keep doing it. "I was like, 'Well, these guys are gonna give me money. I might as well just keep doing that then.'"

Social media also gave way to her main niche: older men (her bios declare that she has "granddaddy issues"). She fell into the category after posting a TikTok about older men to see the reaction. It gained a huge number of views. Men were nice to her and started buying her things. 

"I was like, 'Wow, I like this.' I'm gonna just keep marketing towards older men," she said. "It just comes so easy to me now, because people know I'm the girl that films with older men."

"Even when I was doing solo content, I was marketing towards older men," Wisconsin continued. "So a majority of my subscribers are older men."

She posts daily on multiple social media accounts (Instagram, X, TikTok, and others), but she doesn't actively monitor them throughout the day.

"I used to do that a long time ago, being like, 'Oh, is it going to get views or not?' But now, I don't do that, and when I don't do that, [the video] always seems to get views," she said.

And asked whether she's ever been shadowbanned (or deprioritized or hidden on mainstream social platforms, which those platforms typically deny), Wisconsin said, "A lot of times, if people are shadowbanned, it's not that they're shadowbanned, it's because they're not posting content that the internet wants to push out." 

Wisconsin always stays up to date on algorithm changes, and that makes a difference, she said. 

Creators who believe they're shadowbanned might not understand their content isn't interesting, Wisconsin said. "I've done the same thing where I thought it was, and then today…I look back, and…it's not like, 'Oh my gosh… I want to watch this again.'"

Tiffany Wisconsin's top OnlyFans tips

Treat OnlyFans like a business, Wisconsin said. 

She's been working with an assistant for about a year, who handles her bookings, checks emails, and the like. "I really do think it's important to have extra help," she said. Other adult content creators Mashable has spoken to about what making porn requires (besides naked bodies) also said they rely on other people, like social media managers.

To earn a substantial income on OnlyFans, Wisconsin advises being consistent, having a plan, and not undervaluing yourself.

"A lot of girls undervalue themselves," she said. "They don't charge enough for their content."

"If you think about going to the store and you see something that's not as much, and then you're wondering, like, 'why is it not as much? It must not be as good,'" she explained. 

Women may think that if they charge less, more people will buy their content, but Wisconsin said it actually might turn them away because they'll wonder why it's not priced higher.

Even if you don't make six figures a month, you might be able to break above the yearly $1,300 average.

TL;DR: Unblock XVideos from anywhere in the world with a VPN. The best VPN for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

The online world is full of restrictions and blockades, but you can stay one step ahead with a simple hack. It's possible to secure access to restricted content from anywhere in the world with a VPN. And anyone can follow these simple steps.

Want to unblock porn sites like XVideos for free from anywhere in the world? We have the information you need.

How to unblock XVideos for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect to a secure server in another location. This straightforward process bypasses content restrictions so you can access porn sites like XVideos from anywhere in the world.

Unblock XVideos by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to XVideos

4. Unblock XVideos

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Credit: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan)

$12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee)

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The best VPNs for unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites and then recover your investment at a later date. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it works well if you're temporarily away from home on an unsecured network.

If you want to retain permanent access to the online world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for bypassing online restrictions is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for porn?

ExpressVPN is the top choice when it comes to unblocking porn sites like XVideos, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $78.18 and includes an extra four months for free — 78% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Unblock XVideos for free with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Unblock porn sites like xHamster with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

Your access to porn sites like xHamster is not guaranteed in many locations around the world. There are obvious and legitimate reasons for online restrictions, but there is also something to be said for retaining your right to online freedom. When the time is right, you should be able to access your favorite sites without hassle.

Fortunately, it's possible to bypass content restrictions in a few simple steps. f you're looking for the best way to unblock porn sites like xHamster for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to unblock xHamster for free

VPNs are tools that can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure servers in other locations. This process bypasses geo-restrictions to secure access to porn sites like xHamster from anywhere in the world. It sounds complicated, but the process is actually really simple.

Unblock xHamster by following these steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to xHamster

4. Unblock xHamster

Opens in a new window

Credit: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan)

$12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee)

Get Deal

The best VPNs for unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites and then recover your investment at a later date. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it works well if you're traveling to a location without access to your favorite sites.

If you want to retain permanent access to free porn sites from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for bypassing online restrictions is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for porn?

ExpressVPN is the top choice when it comes to unblocking porn sites like xHamster, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $78.18 and includes an extra four months for free — 78% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Unblock xHamster for free with ExpressVPN.

And don't give up. Despite the burnout, apps are still one of the main ways people connect. A 2025 SSRS Opinion Panel Omnibus found that 65 percent of people aged 18 to 29 have used a dating app, and a 2023 Pew Research Center report found that one in 10 partnered adults met their significant other on one.

You just need the right tool. That's why I've put in the hours, the swipes, and the subscription fees to find the best options for every kind of single person. To help you find your match, these are the best dating apps worth downloading in 2026.

If you need even more personalized advice, check out our guides to the best dating apps for men, women, and the LGBTQ community.

The dating apps I'd skip (and why)

You'll probably notice a few popular apps are missing from my list. That’s intentional. Part of my job is to filter out the platforms that aren't worth your time, money, or sanity. An app doesn't get my recommendation just because it's well-known — it has to be effective and safe.

Here are a few popular dating apps I'd skip:

• Plenty of Fish (POF): I know this one shows up on a lot of lists, but in my opinion, it's a dating app ghost town. POF launched as a dating site back in 2003, and it shows. In my experience (and based on widespread user feedback), the platform is filled with bots and scams, and the odds of finding a quality connection are stacked against you. Unless you enjoy sifting through fake profiles, I think your time is better spent elsewhere.

• Raya: Raya is basically the Soho House of dating apps. It's exclusive, expensive, and not for the average person. You have to fill out an application to use it, and the vetting process can take anywhere from a few days to a few years. While it might be great for networking or bagging an influencer, it's just not a practical recommendation for most people who are simply looking for a date. (See also: The League.)

• Niche "hookup" sites (like BeNaughty, Fling, etc.): There's a chance you've seen ads for sites like these, which promise quick, no-strings-attached fun. Based on my research and countless user reviews, I'd advise you to steer clear. These platforms are notorious for being overrun with bots and having questionable billing practices, with users reporting unexpected and hard-to-cancel subscription charges.

Online dating as a lesbian can be a joyous experience, but it can also involve having your space invaded by straight people or seeing your ex-girlfriends (and your ex-girlfriends' ex-girlfriends) show up in your feed over and over.

Over the decades, queer women have turned to personal ads, frequented bars, and relied on word of mouth to find love. These days, it's not too different. From trying to find a date on WLW TikTok to entrapranureal lesbians creating new apps just for them, LGBTQ women are down to get creative to find their special someone.

Thankfully, in 2026, there are both niche and general apps where queer women can find a partner — whether for one night or for life. Which ones are the best dating apps for lesbians? We tested the most popular dating sites and apps and got some insight from our Dating & Relationships writers to find out.

How to find the best dating apps for lesbians

Niche lesbian dating apps aren't your only option for finding love. Credit: Stacey Zhu / Mashable

Mainstream dating apps attract the most users — including queer users. That means niche lesbian dating apps aren't your only options for finding love. These days, Hinge, Bumble, OkCupid, and even eharmony all have clear filters to help you match with people of the same gender (or any gender at all), as well as filters that acknowledge the existence of non-traditional relationships (like polyamory). Especially if you don't live in a densely populated area, going for the more popular dating apps over lesbian dating sites can often lead to more results.

With that said, there is one dating app lesbian women should try. HER is an app by and for queer women, and it's grown to have a strong user base. According to its website, the app has more than 15 million registered users worldwide. The app also emphasizes finding community and making friends, in addition to dating, providing you with numerous ways to connect with other queer women and non-binary users.

Check out our guide below for the full rundown of our recommendations and dating app reviews.

Gone are the days when people balk at you if you say you met your partner online. Dating apps have irrevocably changed the way we date — much like social media platforms have changed the way we interact with each other overall. With so many apps, from Bumble to eharmony, it can be challenging to determine which ones to invest in, especially if you're looking for that special someone.

According to 2023 findings from the Pew Research Center, one in ten partnered adults (married, living with a partner, or in a committed relationship) met their partner on a dating app or site. If you're a younger adult and/or LGBTQ, you're more likely to have met your significant other online: one in five adults under 30 and nearly one in four for LGBTQ adults.

The same study found that almost half (44 percent) of dating app users said a major reason for using them was to meet a long-term partner. So, if that's you, you're certainly not alone, despite what you might see people lament on TikTok. 

The discourse on dating app culture can be unrelenting. Singles told Mashable earlier this year they'd rather meet a potential partner in person, but they're begrudgingly on the apps. Some, like Tinder, have seen their revenue decrease in recent quarters, while Hinge is growing. Even then, though, daters bemoan even the most popular of apps. After Zohran Mamdani's win for New York City mayor in November, for example, Hinge users complained that it was somehow "not the same app" where he had met his wife four years prior.

Despite the frustration over The Apps™, it's undeniable that if you want to date from the comfort and safety of your home, they're the way to do it. If you're, say, introverted or have difficulty approaching someone in person, an app does have its uses.

What is the #1 best dating app?

Considering the variation in experiences on all the dating apps, it's difficult to quantify which ones are the "best." Some people find their spouses on Tinder, while others are disappointed that their matches are only looking for hookups. 

That being said, if you're looking for something serious, your best bet is likely an app with a large user base, options for you to indicate what you're looking for in your bio, and filters to weed out who you really want to partner with. There are also apps whose branding is geared towards finding one's ultimate match — like eharmony and Match, both decades-old sites with reputations for helping users find their spouse. Hinge, Bumble, and Coffee Meets Bagel also have a reputation for more "serious" connections.

Depending on the type of relationship you're seeking, you may also benefit from a more niche app. Take one app on our list, SilverSingles, for people over 50. Sure, there are older adults on apps like Tinder and Bumble as well, but you may have more luck finding someone age-appropriate if you're in a space meant just for you.

Which dating site is best for serious relationships?

Mashable has researched to pick out a few from the plethora of dating sites (and apps) out there. These options are available for both Android and Apple users, so the type of phone you have won't determine your options. In terms of monetary investment, you can use some of these for free (like Tinder and Bumble), while others are more pay-to-play. We've also included some "niche" options, like the aforementioned SilverSingles and Elite Singles, so you have more than the standard buffet of dating apps.

Here are the best dating apps for serious relationships:

If you identify as straight but are open to queer experiences, you're not alone. You may be called "heteroflexible," a portmanteau that signals being "mostly straight" with a flexibility towards same-sex attraction. 

And according to Feeld, "heteroflexible" is the fastest-growing sexuality on the hookup app — 193 percent in 2025. Switching between heteroflexible and straight is one of the most common sexuality shifts, the app stated in its Feeld Raw 2025 report, with millennials making up almost two-thirds of total heteroflexible members (65 percent), and Gen Z at 18 percent.

What does heteroflexibility mean?

There's no objective definition of heteroflexibility. In fact, it hasn't yet been used in the scientific study of the psychology of sexual orientation, said Pavel S. Blagov, Ph.D, professor of psychology at Whitman College.

One of the earliest cited writings on the term, by then-professor of sociology at Yale University Laurie Essig, was published by Salon in 2000. Essig, now a professor at Middlebury College, defined heteroflexibility as when someone "has or intends to have a primarily heterosexual lifestyle, with a primary sexual and emotional attachment to someone of the opposite sex." But, as Essig continued, "that person remains open to sexual encounters and even relationships with persons of the same sex."

As much as 15 percent of the American population may identify as heteroflexible, according to a 2019 study. 

What's the origin of the term "heteroflexibility"?

The exact genesis of the term "heteroflexible" is unknown, but it's been used as early as the 1990s. In the 1997 humor glossary of LGBTQ slang When Drag is Not a Car Race, heteroflexibility is defined as "bisexual, or at least open to sexual experimentation."

Heteroflexible appeared to pick up steam on college campuses in the early 2000s, as displayed in Essig's Salon article. A 2002 dispatch from The Buffalo News declared heteroflexbile the "hot term being bandied about on campus," and defined it as "the condition of being not fully bisexual but open to adventure."

How is heteroflexibility used today?

Today, people seem to use the term differently, said Blagov, and its use is being studied by scholars in gender studies, sociology, and public health. 

"The concept seems to have different meanings across individuals and in different corners of popular culture," he continued. There are several facets of sexual orientation that one may use heteroflexibility to refer to: someone's identity, their sexual desires, their sexual behavior, or something else, or a combination of these. 

Based on various sources online, Blagov senses that someone who describes themselves as heteroflexible may be trying to convey one or more of these concepts: "Some degree of attraction to the same sex; some degree of interest in same-sex sexual behavior; a positive attitude toward diversity in sexual orientation; an open mind about different identities; that they owe some allegiance to a heterosexual or straight identity; and that they do not identify as bisexual or homosexual." 

He also cited sociologist Héctor Carrillo and contributor Amanda Hoffman, who researched sexualities of American men in an aptly titled study, Straight with a pinch of bi. On one hand, Carrillo and Hoffman wrote, terms like heteroflexibility and "bi-curious" represent a renewed sense of sexual identity among young straight Americans with same-sex desire — and possibly a search for public recognition and societal acceptance. 

At the same time, Carrillo argued, by not adopting a queer identity like bisexual, heteroflexible people seek to remain in the "heterosexual category." They want an indication that same-sex desire and behavior "are not altogether incompatible with heterosexuality."

Blagov reiterated that heteroflexibility isn't currently an established concept in the scientific study of psychology. "It is not referring to how a person's mind works or any objectively defined way in which people differ," he said. At least currently, it doesn't indicate a proven difference among people. Rather, it's a label people have started using to describe themselves and others. 

The use of heteroflexible also likely differs across individuals and groups, and — like our definition of so many other words — may change over time.

Is heteroflexibility just bisexuality?

Heteroflexibility, Essig wrote, "is a rejection of bisexuality since the inevitable question that comes up in bisexuality is one of preference, and the preference of the heteroflexible is quite clear."

At first, Essig said she was pissed at the term. "I resented the fact that they [young people] would root their marginal sexual practices in the safety of heterosexuality," she said. Then, after reflecting, she embraced it because in her view, it could bring an end to heterosexuality's dominance. In the future, Essig mused, everyone would be flexible.

Other scholars, however, don't have such a rosy view of the term. In a 2009 article about queer representation in the media, media and communications professor Lisa Blackman wrote that "heteroflexible" serves to expand the boundaries of the "heterosexual" label rather than to normalize queer identities. Flexibility is merely a "temporary interruption" of heterosexual desire, a "break from the routine."

Blackman goes on to say that the idea of flexibility serves to support the agency of heterosexual people, but not queer people. Queer attraction, at least in media at the time of Blackman's writing, was seen as something novel for straight people (primarily women) to experience. She cites two examples — Samantha Jones in Sex and the City and Jessica in Kissing Jessica Stein — as characters who flirted with homosexuality, but only temporarily.

Does "heteroflexibility" describe queer desire in terms of...straightness? In Blackman's sense, yes, said Andrew Cheng, assistant professor in the department of linguistics at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa (previously a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Linguistics at Simon Fraser University). 

While this argument is an academic look into film and television at the time, other queer people have decried the term for similar reasons. Writer Charlie Williams said in Affinity Magazine that the word heteroflexible erases bi identities, saying both heteroflexible and the opposite, homoflexible, are just "fancy words" for bisexual. Another writer, Kravitz M., called for people who feel attraction to multiple genders to question why they don't call themselves bi, and claimed it might be because of internalized biphobia.

For some, any flexibility is a deviation from the heterosexual standard and will be judged negatively, particularly for men who experience bi erasure, according to Dr. Luke Brunning, a lecturer in applied ethics at the University of Leeds and co-director of the Centre for Love, Sex, and Relationships. "For others, perhaps those firmly within the queer community, heteroflexibility might be viewed with suspicion, as indicative of a reticence to be open about someone's 'true' bisexuality, for example, or as evidence of internalized homophobia."

It's important to remember, though, that the meanings and uses of identity labels change quickly — especially in the internet age — and that identities are dependent on local communities, said Cheng. 

"The rise in heteroflexibility as an identification among, say, rural men in the Midwest today, might be very different from how it was used by city-dwelling college students in the nineties," he continued.

Further, without much psychological research, it's hard to speculate why someone may identify as heteroflexible (or bi-curious or "mostly straight") instead of a queer identity, said Blagov. 

For some people, the term "heteroflexible" accurately describes how they experience attraction or behave, said Brunning, who provided insights for Feeld. (Brunning was also interviewed by Mashable in 2020 for his book on non-monogamy). For others, he continued, it might be a "promise-to-self," something they want to look into further or explore.

All this to say, there's no "correct" use of heteroflexible. It may not be its own sexual orientation — it's been long known that sexual attraction can fall somewhere between hetero and homosexual — but anyone is free to identify as such. Sexuality, like language itself, can be flexible.

This article was originally published in 2022 and republished in 2026 with new information.

I’ve been testing dating apps for a long time now, and the question my friends ask me most isn't "how does the algorithm work?" but rather "which app is actually the best?"

Lately, as we've all gotten older (and more willing to settle down), eharmony has snuck into the conversation more often than I’d like to admit. It’s known for being the go-to for the over-50 crowd, but its "hip" new commercials suggest the company is desperate to attract a younger user base.

Whatever their marketing strategy, the claim that "every 14 minutes, someone finds love on eharmony" piqued my interest. So, I decided to give it a real college try to see whether its infamous questionnaire and algorithm-based matching system actually work. Below is my detailed experience with eharmony, from sign-up to connecting with other users.

Getting started on eharmony

Once you download the app, you have two choices: “Join now” or “Log in.” There isn't an option to sign in with Facebook or Google on this screen. (Given the app's older demographic, I honestly expected a Facebook login to be front and center.)

Next, you select your country and your gender. You have three options: woman, man, or nonbinary.

After you pick one, a note pops up letting you know you can "update your gender at any time." This is cool considering eharmony’s history of being less-than-welcoming to gay and nonbinary folks. But that feeling of progress evaporates when you’re asked, “Who are you open to meeting?” While you can technically select multiple options (e.g., men and women), the interface makes it appear to be a single-choice question at first glance, which can be confusing.

If you decide to keep going, you’ll share what you're looking for (casual, serious, or just browsing) and then get smacked in the face with a massive consent pop-up.

The "Your Consent" pop-up that appears during eharmony's sign-up process. Credit: Screenshot: eharmony

I didn't click “accept all,” and it still let me move forward, so at least there’s no gatekeeping there. Finally, the app asks you to sign up with your email address, Apple, or Google account. It’s weird that they bury this step so deep in the onboarding process instead of putting it at the very beginning, but I eventually chose Google — it’s just easier that way.

You’re in. Now what?

After successfully getting through the initial registration, you’ll get a cute little welcome message: “Congrats — you’re taking the first step towards finding someone who gets you. Now, let’s see what’s next for you.”

This is the part we’ve all been complaining about for years. This extensive questionnaire is a hallmark of eharmony, and it’s what the company claims is the "secret sauce" to its matchmaking success. The first screen is just an intro that basically says to find someone right for you, the best place to look is within yourself. (I think this makes total sense.)

Clicking “continue” brings you to a screen with two tips: Spend 10 to 20 minutes taking the quiz, and go with your gut. (I am curious if the upcoming questions are based on whether you chose man, woman, or nonbinary for your gender preference. It would be interesting to see if a male user gets different phrasing than a female or nonbinary user.)

The welcome screen for eharmony's famous Compatibility Quiz, which takes about 20 minutes to complete. Credit: Screenshot: eharmomy

I’m not going to list every single question, but here’s a quick rundown of the first 15 percent:

• Where is your ideal place to live? (Regardless of where you are now.)

• Why do you want a relationship? You can choose three options, including things like “emotional security,” “so I’m not alone,” and “frequent intimacy” (go eharmony for including that one!).

• Why are you single? (First of all, rude. Also, not sure some of you are ready to go down that rabbit hole.)

• Would you sleep in one bed or separate bedrooms?

One thing I didn’t love is that if you change your mind about an answer, there isn’t a “back” button to revise it. Once you click, you’re committed.

Moving on… the next set of questions focuses on specific interests. Some are multiple choice, while others demand "exactly two answers required." It covers the basics like smoking and drinking, plus lifestyle questions like whether you prefer cooking or going out to eat (again, wondering if they ask the guys this, too). I appreciated that you could choose “none” for sports, but it was weird that it asked if I played an instrument, but never asked which one.

Honestly, by this point, I was ready to tap out, but I’m doing this for all of you singletons out there who are ready to find your forever person.

A glimpse at the "personality" section of the eharmony quiz, which includes abstract shape preferences and situational questions to gauge your reactions. Credit: Screenshot: eharmony

The next section is picture-based and starts to feel a little like a Rorschach test. It gives you two shapes and asks which appeals to you more. Once that’s over, you get an encouraging pop-up: “Halfway there — keep it up!” Then, more pictures — this time of homes, flowers, and nature scenes.

The most interesting part of this section was a question about your “immediate reaction” if someone close to you upsets you. When I picked my first choice, I got a little pop-up scolding me: “Most people tend to pick this answer because it seems the most logical. Please take a moment and make sure you are picking the right answer that applies to you.” OK, eharmony.

It randomly hits you with a climate change question, and then things get serious. However, the marriage question didn’t sit right with me. Not because of what it asked (“What do you think about marriage as an institution?”) but because of the answers it didn’t offer. It felt limited. It also places a question about whether “sex sells” right underneath a question about set mealtimes, which is... a choice.

Once you finally finish, you’re met with a congratulations screen. You made it.

Even more details, if you can believe it

OK, so you’ve made it this far — congrats! Now, you have to fill out your full name, birthday, occupation, height, education level, annual income, whether you have children, religion, and ethnicity. I literally felt like I was filling out a loan application.

They also ask for your marital status. The only options are single, separated, divorced, and widowed. At first, I thought this was weird for a "forever love" app, but then it clicked. Since so many eharmony users are older, knowing if someone is divorced or widowed is actually helpful context. (That said, bad news for the poly crowd: there is absolutely no option for ethical non-monogamy here.)

Next, you choose two required prompts to answer (500 characters max) and write a short bio. Then comes the photo section. Wildly enough, eharmony lets you “skip” this step entirely. If you try, a pop-up gently nudges you to reconsider because you’ll "stand out more," but you can proceed without a face. For a site this serious, that feels like a loophole for catfish.

eharmony is notorious for being pricey, so when a “Welcome Gift” screen popped up, I braced myself for what was to come. Sure enough, clicking “unwrap gift” reveals a 50% off premium subscription offer.

The "Welcome Gift" screen that appears at the end of the sign-up process — spoiler: it's a discount on a paid subscription. Credit: Screenshot: eharmomy

Warning: If you click "Next" on this screen, it immediately asks for payment info. It looks like a paywall, but don’t be fooled — you can hit the “back” button to bypass it and get to the free version. Don't let them trick you.

How much will dating on eharmony cost you?

While you can sign up for eharmony for free, the app really pushes you to get a paid subscription. (The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has actually sued the company for auto-renewals people didn’t consent to, so... proceed with caution.)

Anyway, here's the pricing structure I was offered. Note that yours may differ depending on where you live, when you sign up, etc.

Premium light: $14.90 per month

• Unlimited messaging with 15 matches monthly

• See one photo of each profile

• Unique personality profile

• Search near you

Premium plus: $16.90 per month

• Unlimited messaging with 30 matches monthly

• See all photos

• Unique personality profile

• Search near you

• See who’s seen you

Premium unlimited: $18.90 per month

• Unlimited messaging with all matches

• See all photos

• Unique personality profile

• Search near you

• See who’s seen you

• Filter new members first

The matching process (finally!)

After all that data entry and the predatory subscription BS, the app tells you it's finally ready to show you your “featured profiles” — basically three members you’re supposed to rate. You can skip this section, but I moved forward so I could tell you what happens.

Clicking “Let’s go” brought me to my first profile. I couldn't even view her photo; tapping it immediately triggered a request for payment.

Then I looked at the details. She was a solid two hours and 30 minutes away from me. She was also seven years younger than me (weird, since the app never asked for my age preference earlier). The only good thing? It said she was "online yesterday," which suggests she’s an active user — if she’s real.

The profile did show some info, like height, sports, and our "common trait" (we both "seek comfort when things go wrong," apparently). You get the option to "Like" or "Skip." If you click "Like," it lets you send a message, and I assume it notifies them. My other two "featured" options were also over an hour away, despite the app knowing my zip code.

Once you get through that, it says “See who’s here” and dumps you into a feed of BLURRED PHOTOS. There’s also a bright orange banner at the top, constantly trying to force you into buying a subscription. It feels aggressive.

Is eharmony worth the download?

To be blunt, I think you should try literally any of our other top-recommended apps before considering eharmony. Yes, I often rate it as the "best for marriage," but that’s almost entirely because of the sheer volume of data it collects. (Even after "finishing" the quiz, I found there were still 24 more questions waiting for me in my profile, plus tons of sections to add interests.)

The person who should be on this app is Charlotte York, in every sense. She’s focused on finding her knight in shining armor, she lives in NYC (so she’d have way more options than I do in a small Virginia town), and she has disposable income.

If you fit that profile, then cool — this might actually be the best place to find your soulmate, provided you can dodge the aggressive ads for a premium subscription (though if you’re Charlotte, you can afford it).

But if you’re not willing to shell out any cash and you know you’re not looking for anything serious, I’d say it’s probably fine if you never download the eharmony app.

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Credit: eharmony

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Dating Sunday is almost here. 

Landing in the sweet spot between the winter holiday season and Valentine's Day, Dating Sunday — typically the first Sunday of the year — is when eager singles emerge from hibernation to swipe on dating apps in droves. The term traces back to 2016, when apps took notice of the post-New Year's Day frenzy. In 2020, Match's chief dating expert Rachel DeAlto went so far as to call the day the "Super Bowl of dating apps."

When is Dating Sunday this year?

With this kind of marketing, it's easy to have high expectations for Dating Sunday, which falls on Jan. 4, 2026. As a seasoned veteran of both the day and dating apps in general, however, I'm here to tell you that those hopes may not be met. You may not find the love of your life on Dating Sunday — and that's OK.

To the apps' credit, there are stats behind the hoopla: OkCupid typically sees a 70 percent increase in user activity on Dating Sunday. Tinder estimates that 10 percent of all January swipes occur on that date as well.

The reasoning behind it also makes sense. People may take time off dating during the holidays to focus on family, yet the time can remind us of our singleness; December is "proposal season," after all. Plus, January is often seen as a "fresh start," and daters may have newfound optimism to go out and find a partner. Throw in the close proximity to Valentine's Day, and it's totally logical that our thumbs are a-swiping. 

Liubomyr Pivtorak, chief product officer at Hily dating app, says Dating Sunday isn't just about an increase in traffic to the apps. "We see a sharp increase in matches and conversations, with people replying faster and sustaining longer exchanges than usual," says Pivtorak. "It's the moment when motivation is still high and everyone’s giving dating a real try, right before that drop-off kicks in.”

I understand why Dating Sunday falls when it does, but I believe starting out the year with it could be detrimental. If you fail to find a match on Dating Sunday, you may think it's somehow a sign of what's to come during this year, that 2026 is doomed to be like last year and the year before. 

This isn't true. One day — or even a month — of swiping won't determine what the rest of the year will be like. The most popular apps (like Tinder and Bumble) have millions of users, and they'll be active well beyond Dating Sunday. There will be more opportunities beyond the first two Sundays of the year. Perhaps the days in between may be lucrative too! Or the days, weeks, and months afterwards.

"If you’re not careful, you can burn out before you’ve even started," says Sylvia Linzalone, dating expert at UK-based dating app Wisp. "The danger is treating it like a sprint, when dating is really a marathon."

"Dating Sunday isn’t about finding ‘the one’ in 24 hours," Linzalone says. "It’s about starting the year with clarity. Use the energy of the day to set better habits – whether that’s messaging with more intention, meeting sooner, or being clearer about what you want." 

Remember: How Dating Sunday shakes out won't be a predictor for the rest of the year. Don't participate if you don't want to; you can find love another time. Those excited singles won't vanish when Monday rolls around.

If you do want to put your best foot forward, however, by all means do it. On Dating Sunday, experts recommend that you complete your bio and include at least three photos of yourself. You want a potential match that puts in the effort, so you should do so too.

I'm sure I'm preaching to the choir in terms of managing expectations. Just remember what Linzalone says: it's a marathon, not a sprint.

This article was first published in 2022 and republished in 2026.

As one of Mashable’s sex, dating, and relationships writers, I’ve tested dozens of apps over the past few years, and Hinge is easily the one I get asked about most. Why? Because it’s the landing spot for everyone who's too horny to admit it (and wouldn't be caught dead on Tinder) and for the people who are genuinely ready to swap keys and get a dog together. It’s the app famously "designed to be deleted," and for better or worse, it’s where people go when they want to have an actual conversation IRL.

Some of my closest friends — and some Mashable staff members — have found love on Hinge (one is even engaged to her match now), so I know it can work. To help you decide if it’s worth the download for you, I’ve broken down everything you need to know about the app, from the sign-up process to the features that actually help you connect.

Getting started on Hinge

The onboarding process for Hinge is super easy. Once you've downloaded the app, just click “Create Account,” enter your phone number, and type in the verification code. There isn’t a Facebook login or any kind of Google or Apple login option right upfront, but I think that’s OK. It’s not like your phone number is viewable anywhere on the platform.

The first screen that pops up says, “You’re one of a kind. Your profile should be, too.” This immediately shows that Hinge is serious about getting to know you a little better than most mainstream dating apps.

The first question? What’s your name? Easy enough. There’s a little note at the top that says “NO BACKGROUND CHECKS ARE CONDUCTED,” which is honestly a little weird, but reassuring, I guess? There’s also a note that says your last name is optional, so if you’re wary about sharing your full identity, you can opt to omit it.

(After entering your name, you do get the option to connect a Google or Apple account. I’m not sure why this isn’t an option on the main login screen, but nevertheless, it’s there if you want it.)

Next, Hinge requests your email and asks for a verification code again. The fact that the app does two-step verification twice is pretty impressive; it makes it much less likely for someone to create a fake profile.

Defining who you are

Of course, your birth date (which Hinge says is only used to “calculate your age"), location, and gender identity are standard questions. Hinge lets you select up to four pronouns (e.g., they/them, she/her).

It offers “Man,” Woman,” and “Nonbinary” gender options, and from there you can add your gender identity, which includes a comprehensive list like genderfluid, genderqueer, trans, and others. If you don’t see yours, you can request it using the “Tell us if we’re missing something” button. You can also toggle whether or not these are visible on your profile.

Following this, you’ll be able to choose your sexuality. The options include:

• Straight

• Gay

• Lesbian

• Bisexual

• Allosexual

• Androsexual

• Asexual

• Autosexual

This is also optional to show on your profile. You’ll then be asked who you want to date, and nicely, you can select multiple options (some apps restrict you to just one).

The app asks for your relationship type next. You can choose from “Monogamy,” “Non-monogamy,” and “Figuring out my relationship type.” If you choose “figuring out,” you’ll be prompted to write up to 160 characters describing exactly what you’re looking for.

Within your profile, you can select your gender, sexuality, and who you're looking to meet. Credit: Screenshot: Hinge

Dating intentions

Next are your intentions, and Hinge lists several options to choose from. One of the things I noticed here is that if you choose “prefer not to say,” a little note appears: “This will limit who sees your profile.” This is a good reminder of just how serious Hinge is about helping you meet the right match. If someone can’t share their intentions, they’re probably shady AF, and Hinge is recognizing this out loud.

Once you’ve gotten through that, you’ll be asked to fill in more details about yourself, including:

• Height (which is always visible on your profile)

• Ethnicity

• Children (another answer that will limit your profile if you don’t disclose this info)

• Family Plans (yet another answer that’ll limit who sees you)

• Virtues: Hometown, workplace, job title, school, education level, religious beliefs, and political views

Finally, it hits you with the vices: Do you drink, smoke tobacco, smoke weed, or use drugs? Note that for almost all of these, choosing “prefer not to say” will limit who sees your profile.

While it may seem a little invasive to limit profile views based on your answers, I think this is a really good way for people to meet the ones they’re actually meant to be with. This screening process is way more in-depth than most. It also makes it a good option for people who are sober or conscious about their alcohol intake (which a good chunk of Gen Z are).

Creating your profile

OK, now that you’ve gotten through the basic info, Hinge wants you to “show off” the person behind the screen.

Photos

First up: profile pics and videos. (It’s pretty cool that the app lets you upload videos, too.) There are six spaces for images or videos, and if you’re unsure of what to upload, Hinge offers a “see what works based on research” feature that guides you.

You're required to submit all six photos to move forward. I didn’t love this because I hate photos of myself, but I did love it for filtering others. The fact that users have to do this is a pretty good sign that there will be fewer bots and catfish on this app (and honestly, in my past testing, I never encountered a bot).

Fill out your profile with photos/videos and prompts. Credit: Screenshot: Hinge

Prompts

After you’ve uploaded all six images/videos, you’ll be asked to write profile answers. You need to pick three prompts to start.

Some options include:

• This year, I really want to...

• I go crazy for...

• Give me travel tips for...

• Do you agree or disagree that...

• Don’t hate me if I...

• My last journal entry was about...

• Together, we could...

There are tons more across different categories, such as “self-care” and “date vibes.” You can write up to 225 characters for each. Once you fill out a prompt from one category, Hinge suggests filling out prompts from other categories to mix it up. And if your content is thin, Hinge’s AI will nudge you to “go a little deeper.”

You can also add an optional voice prompt to record up to 30 seconds of audio.

After all of that, Hinge gives you your first “Subscriber” pop-up. You can “Check it out” or click “Maybe later.” I’m super appreciative that this is the first time I’ve seen a push toward a paid subscription. Some apps (cough, eharmony) constantly push paid subscriptions.

And, voila! You’re finally finished setting up your profile.

Matching on Hinge

Whether you decide to keep going with your profile is up to you. You can see potential matches after the initial setup, or you can go back and edit details, add more, and see where things go. Of course, the app notes that to improve your match quality, you should complete more sections of your profile.

If you click “edit profile,” you’ll find the option to add a “Match Note,” which is a private message you can share with matches before you start chatting. Examples of what could go in here include things like whether you’re just getting out of a divorce, are recently sober, or are looking for a polyamorous relationship. It’s a dedicated space for the "need-to-know" info you might not want on your public profile.

Hinge also lets you add a poll, a video prompt, a voice prompt, and additional photos. If you’re wondering, the bare minimum we did above gets you to an 89 percent complete profile.

Unlike some other apps, Hinge lets you see full profiles and photos of potential matches for free. You can filter matches by gender, age, height, dating intentions, and more. This helps narrow your search down. More advanced filtering options are available only to paid subscribers (which I’ll cover in a bit).

On the main dashboard, you’ll have a home feed and a “Standouts” section (the star icon). These are people whom Hinge’s algorithm thinks you’d “be most excited about,” based on who’s getting the most attention, your dealbreakers, and your recent activity. “Standouts” are refreshed every 24 hours, so you can always browse new people the next day.

You’ll also see a “Likes You” section (the heart icon) where you can view profiles that have “liked” you. The cool thing here is that these people cannot connect with you unless you give the go-ahead. However, there’s a catch: free users can only view one incoming “like” at a time. You have to make a decision (match or skip) before you can see the next one. (If you have a paid subscription, you can see everyone who’s “liked” you at once.)

Also, once you send a “like,” you won’t see that profile again until they choose to match with you. And, you can only send eight "likes" per day. To prevent ghosting, Hinge also enforces "Your Turn Limits." If you have eight or more conversations where it's your turn to reply, you won't be able to send any new "likes" until you message back or unmatch.

It’s all part of Hinge’s “intentional” philosophy: If you’re forced to really think about who you’re matching with, you’re less likely to just mindlessly swipe on everyone just because (looking at you, Tinder).

Safety and security

In addition to the standard chat features, Hinge has a surprisingly robust safety suite designed to keep the scammers (and creeps) at bay.

Selfie verification

If you click on your profile photo and hit the “Safety” tab, you’ll see “Selfie Verification” first. To get that coveted checkmark, you have to take a quick video selfie to prove you’re a real person. Hinge promises the video is private, but here’s the fine print: according to the pop-up, Hinge keeps three screenshots from that video for the life of your account to audit the feature. It also keeps the results, whether you pass or fail.

Verify your profile to let people know that you're real. Credit: Screenshot: Hinge

Comment filter

The comment filter is another safety option that even free Hinge users can activate. You can set an “auto” filter to catch disrespectful comments, or use "Hidden Words" to block specific words, phrases, and emoji from ever appearing in your notifications. (Goodbye, eggplant emoji.)

Hinge tucks these away in a “Hidden Likes” section, so you can still view them if you really want to check if the algorithm got it right. I like that it gives you the final say without forcing you to see the trash upfront.

Block list

You can also sync your phone contacts to your "Block List." This is a must-have feature if you want to preemptively ensure you never see your ex, your boss, or your cousin on the app.

Underneath these features, there’s a direct button to contact the Crisis Text Line and a Help Center with safety tips. It feels comprehensive without being too in-your-face.

How much does Hinge cost?

OK, so I’m pretty impressed with the free features, but if you’re interested in seeing what else this app has to offer, Hinge+ and HingeX are the paid subscription tiers that’ll get you extra perks and advanced filtering.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll get with each:

Hinge+

Cost: Starts at $19.99 per week

What you get:

• Unlimited “likes”

• See everyone who “likes” you at once (no blurring)

• Additional dating preferences (height, family plans, politics, vices)

• Sort all incoming “likes” by compatibility or recent activity

If you live in a big city and are overwhelmed by likes, this is worth it just to see everyone at once.

HingeX

Cost: Starts at $24.99 per week

What you get: Everything in Hinge+, plus:

• Enhanced recommendations: Better quality profiles in your Discover feed.

• Skip the Line: Your profile is shown to people you like sooner.

• Priority Likes: Your "likes" stay at the top of potential matches’ lists (so they see you first).

You can also buy à la carte options like "Boosts" (which increase who sees you by 11 times) and "Roses" (which, according to Hinge, are two times more likely to land you a date).

Is downloading Hinge worth it?

If you’re looking for a relationship (and not just a late-night “u up?” text), yes, Hinge is absolutely worth the download. There are so many features that come standard for free users, which is rare. Plus, the app’s clear focus on helping people actually meet someone right for them (and its dedication to making you feel safe and supported) is unmatched.

I’ve tested this app in multiple towns, from small suburbs to big cities, and I’ve consistently had better results here than anywhere else. As a bisexual person, I also appreciate that it doesn't pigeonhole me; I always have plenty of options across the board. If you're ready to delete an app for the right reasons (i.e., actually meeting someone), Hinge is still your best bet.

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Credit: Hinge

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When a couple is apart from each other, it's traditionally considered a nuisance at best. And you only have to look at Carrie Bradshaw's despairing response to Big moving to Paris in Sex And The City to know that being separate is often thought to be the kiss of death for a romantic relationship.

But Gen Z are not only optimistic about the potential of long-distance relationships, but some online are also claiming it's preferable to a traditional relationship. One TikTok user, @brooklyn_crosby, described long-distance relationships as  "the healthiest thing a relationship can go through," explaining that they can help to improve communication and encourage you to appreciate each other more. Another user, Dani Friedmann, made a TikTok video claiming that she loves her long-distance relationship because it allows her to focus on self-improvement. The text of her video reads: "sleep more, WAY more productive, eat healthier, go out with the girls, locked TF in, consistent schedule, and talk to my man on ft every night. Like this is GOATED." 

Clearly, people online believe that a long-distance relationship is all about growth — relationship growth, but also personal growth, which is something of the utmost importance for Gen Z. Social media is flooded with productivity and self-help content. There are over 53,000 posts with the tag #5to9 in which people document their hyper-productive pre-work routines between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m.. On top of that, 39 percent of British and American Gen Z strongly agree that goal-setting is linked to success, either in the workplace or their personal life. Young adults are presenting long-distance relationships as the answer for those who don't want a relationship to get in the way of self-development but still want to experience romantic relationships.

Independent women

Twenty-eight-year-old Sarah* has been with her partner for 10 years, four of which were long-distance and she says that having time and energy for their own lives and careers was one of the biggest benefits: "We both had ambitions and continued to pursue our own lives even while being in a relationship," she tells Mashable. "We both have respect for each other and want each other to do well."

Similarly, 26-year-old Thea has been in a long-distance relationship for four years, and she says that the biggest benefit has been having time to focus on personal development. "It allows you to lead the life you want to without having to compromise," she says. "Being in your 20s is all about exploring what you want to do and how you want to lead your life."

The impetus for self-growth while in a relationship might feel particularly pressing for women, who still face gendered expectations in their relationships at home and at work. 

"Distance can be one way to obtain the space for people to have more autonomy [...] which will likely appeal to women, who have been historically prevented from establishing independent work and personal lives," he explains. 

"In the back of my head, I was conscious that I wanted to have new experiences and not having my boyfriend to come back to every night would be a good opportunity to meet more new people," Sarah says, explaining that she thought it would be beneficial to go long-distance originally. Thea adds that: "Having that loving and supporting person there but also being fully selfish and making decisions thinking of yourself rather than as a two has great benefits while we are young as it means you don't compromise on any of your aspirations."

Why Gen Z decenters romance

The preference for a long-distance relationship perhaps also reflects how young people are decentering romantic love from their lives, focusing on friendships and other relationships instead. In fact, according to a 2025 report by YPulse, only 27 percent of Gen-Z are actively looking to date. Living in a different city or country from your partner allows you to experience some of the benefits of a romantic relationship without other commitments. "I know friends who can get wrapped up in a relationship. [Long distance relationships] avoids [you and your partner] becoming one person so early on in your adult development," Thea says.

And the sacrifice of long-distance may not feel as significant as it did in the past, with so many ways to communicate digitally. In fact, an Ofcom report found that 71 percent of older children and teens (aged 11-18) feel more confident communicating online than in person. Another survey found that 31 percent of American adults prefer texting to talking on the phone. This is another reason why people are idolising long-distance relationships. There's even a dating app, Bumpy,  which is specifically designed for people who want to date internationally. According to Bumpy, the app has had 20 million downloads, and 60 percent of their users are women. It's not designed for holiday flings or casual texting either – Bumpy claims that 70 percent of users are looking for a serious relationship with someone who lives in a different country to them.

But as Gen-Z's lack of social connection is regularly associated with their worsening mental health levels, should we be worried about the rise of long-distance relationships? Brunning says the increasing interest in long-distance relationships is an example of "adaptive preference," a concept that explains why desires subconsciously change due to the way people are forced to work and live in modern times. "When work is increasingly flexible, remote, or precarious, and when housing is hard to afford, it is unsurprising that more people might embrace alternatives: they have little choice," Brunning explains. 

It might also have something to do with attachment styles, according to relationship therapist Georgina Sturmer. "If our attachment style is avoidant, then we might struggle when relationships become too close. We might push people away or seek space, in order to feel more comfortable," she explains. "It is these attachment behaviours that might make a long-distance relationship feel more appealing."

In a healthy relationship, it's important to be able to focus on yourself, without having to put distance between you and your partner, Sturmer says. "This ability to be united, but retain our own identity, is an important part of adult relationships," she explains, adding that it's essential to have, "honest and assertive conversations about how we can maintain a relationship while also holding space for ourselves."

However, that's not to say that long-distance relationships are inherently toxic, particularly if they allow you and your partner to pursue things you feel strongly about for yourselves, whether that's work, friendships, or hobbies. Sarah is living with her partner now, and she says that long-distance ultimately shaped what a healthy and loving relationship is. 

"I valued having that experience of growing up separately and coming together and now we're pretty much inseparable," she says, adding, "The whole absence makes the heart grow fonder is definitely something that applies to us. It's been something that's strengthened the relationship and made us realise what we value in a partner and how much we do love being together."

New year, new love? Maybe not, according to Mashable's dating predictions for 2026. 

With 2026 within kissing distance, many of us will be mulling over our resolutions for the year ahead. Will I fall in love this year? Will dating continue to be a dumpster fire? Will we enter a post-dating era? Will we all be dating chatbots by Christmas 2026?

Mashable's resident dating experts, journalists Rachel Thompson and Anna Iovine, have made five predictions for what lies ahead in the dating realm. 

You can't spell dating without 'AI'

2025 was a seminal year when it came to AI implementations in different industries, and dating is no exception. Dating apps like Hinge and Tinder have begun to bake AI into new features, like Hinge's Convo Starters, which uses AI to nudge users to send better first messages. Tinder is also testing an AI matchmaker called Chemistry.

Then there are the people actually dating chatbots. We saw AI used in dating and as "daters" themselves last year, and we can only guess it'll continue this year. There may be an AI bubble, but it's doubtful detractors can put the genie back into the bottle — especially when it comes to AI companions. Some adults have grown so attached to their ChatGPT-4 companions, for instance, that when OpenAI upgraded to GPT-5 they freaked out and sought to revert it back to the previous generation, which was more glazing and less analytical. 

People will turn away from dating entirely

Dating? Tired. Daters? Exhausted. No, seriously: nearly 80 percent of all dating app users are feeling burnt out by the apps. 

People — women who date men, in particular — are decentering dating from their lives, choosing instead to prioritize self-fulfilment, friendships, hobbies, and personal growth. Could this be the beginning of a post-dating era?

So, if you're single and loving it, you're officially an icon. As a lifelong single gal, this is not new information to me. But if you've ever felt pressured by your friends to "fix" your singleness and find yourself a partner, well, tell them that dating is terribly passé these days, donchaknow. Then there's the fact that posting your boyfriend on social media is basically loser behaviour now, according to a viral British Vogue article. Then there's the burgeoning single positivity movement, which Mashable has been reporting on for many years. If dating isn't sparking joy, then why bother? 

Offline will be cooler than ever

While a faction of the population will be using AI in their everyday lives, including as one's partner, we predict that another faction will be so turned off by technology that they want to quit. Young adults have already started "luddite clubs," attended offline dating events, and weaned themselves off smartphones, and this trend may continue as life becomes more like science fiction daily.

Because being online is so normal and frictionless that being offline might actually be cool and attractive. Not having an Instagram? So hot. Not being on any dating apps? Even hotter.

Dates on the cheap

With food and drink costs on the rise in the U.S., singles will be getting creative with their love lives to keep romance alive but costs to a minimum. We think that house parties and one-on-one setups will boom in 2026. Instead of expensive speed dating events or comedy shows with a two-drink minimum, you might try hosting your own flirting party. Tell your friends to bring a single pal. Perhaps you'll opt for a walk in the park as a cute first date (you might need your scarf and gloves in winter).

Looking for cheaper alternatives to pricey dating app subscriptions? Be sure to check out Mashable's guide to the best free dating apps.

Looks will matter even more

Let's face it: Perceived attractiveness has always been important in dating and our society as a whole. "Pretty privilege" is real! But in 2026, we think it'll, unfortunately, matter even more to daters. We're at a time when GLP-1 medications are all the rage, and there are also new innovations in hair loss treatments that may make men stop flying to Turkey to fix their hairlines. Combine that with social media shallowness as a whole as well as trends like "looksmaxxing" and women measuring their face lengths, and daters may be scrutinizing their matches' photos more than ever. 

The year of slop and rage bait is coming to a close, and some singles would surely use those words to describe dating in 2025, as well. 

Mid-year, daters told Mashable they're tired of dating apps and want to meet people in person, but they didn't know how. Meanwhile, others used AI to date for them, or they chose to meet and "marry" an AI instead.

With such a whirlwind year, we've picked the five ways that dating changed in 2025 — maybe (excuse the Wicked reference) for good.

AI infiltrates dating

Dating apps began utilizing AI before this year, but in 2025, AI-driven features took off. Despite Mashable asking back in February if AI can save dating apps — and noting the cons — apps continue to invest in such features. Tinder announced in its latest earnings call that it's testing an AI matchmaker called Chemistry, while Hinge launched AI-powered conversation starters in December. The founder of Hinge even announced that he's stepping away from the app to launch an AI dating service called Overtone. 

Daters themselves are also leaning into the AI boom. Match found that 300 percent more singles use AI to date in 2025 than in 2024. And Hinge recently reported that while its daters are longing for deeper connections, some are using the tech to find a partner, too. 

Don't think that AI usage stops when you do find that special someone: Some engaged couples are now using ChatGPT to plan their weddings. 

And that's if they're marrying a human. This year, we've seen an increase in people in relationships with chatbots themselves. According to one survey (by an AI company, so take it with a grain of salt), eight in 10 people in Gen Z would marry an AI. 

We fell out of love with the apps 

You're not imagining it: dating apps have lost their sparkle this past year. Seventy-eight percent of all dating app users reported feeling burnt out by the apps, according to a 2025 Forbes Health report. Dating apps are losing users, with Ofcom figures showing a gradual decline in users across all the main apps, with a particular decrease in female usership. And is it any wonder why? As a dating app user, they feel dead. You spend so much time swiping for very few matches, none of whom seem to want to engage in any kind of conversation. It feels like a waste of time. 

This year saw the explosion of "offline dating," formerly known as just "dating" for those old enough to remember a world before swiping. As people fell out of love with the apps, they decided to take things outside (literally) and put themselves out there in the real world. People flocked to singles' events at bars, bookshops, run clubs, art schools, even sandwich shops. Bye bye dating apps, hello rom-com worthy meet-cutes and wholesome IRL encounters.

Boyfriends are officially out 

Is having a boyfriend embarrassing now? It certainly seems to be, according to the viral British Vogue essay by Chanté Joseph, which interrogates whether it's now deeply uncool, nay "culturally loser-ish," to post about your boyfriend on main. Posting a pic of your boyfriend with the caption "boy did good"? Dead. Not just dead, but outright loser behaviour. 

What's going on? Well, women are decentering relationships from their lives. We're romanticising our friendships, centering joy, celebrating girlhood, healing our inner child, attempting to unlearn the male gaze, and becoming more self-actualised. Being single is a symbol of strength, independence, self-fulfilment. Relationships no longer hold the social capital they once did. There's simply more interesting stuff going on! 

More surveillance by governments — and each other

2025 brought more age-verification laws around the globe. These laws typically require inputting personal data, such as a government-issued ID or a facial scan, into a website containing material that governments deem to be intended for adults. 

Dating apps are no exception. Earlier this year, several major apps like Hinge and Tinder told Mashable they'd require age checks due to the UK's age-verification law, the Online Safety Act. Tinder has taken it a step further by requiring a facial scan for all new users in the United States, following a trial in California. 

As dating apps grapple with security issues — such as bad actors and spam accounts — they're tightening restrictions on who can join, and the information required to swipe.

Surveillance is also increasingly occurring amongst daters themselves. Private Facebook groups like "Are We Dating the Same Guy?" continue to grow (and even face legal action, though a lawsuit about these groups was dismissed earlier this year), while a major controversy among singles this year was the leak of the Tea app. On Tea, women posted their experiences with certain men (similar to Are We Dating the Same Guy), and a major cyberattack exposed people's photos and IDs. 

As Tom Stroud wrote for Mashable, these spaces have "ushered in a new era of dating with receipts."

Cost of living hits our love lives more than ever

The cost of living has risen globally in the past few years. In the U.S., tariffs imposed by the Trump administration have also instilled a fear of rising prices, and that fear is coming to pass in some cases.

Wages aren't keeping up, and we're entering a grueling job market where recent graduates may be being replaced by AI. The result is that people, especially young adults, have less discretionary income.

No doubt this impacts dating. Mashable has been covering this phenomenon of cost of living impacting relationships for years now, but in 2025, it became starker than ever. In September, 28 percent of men said they'd rather date an AI than be single due to the cost of dating. 

Match Group, the conglomerate that owns dating apps Tinder and Hinge, knew a serial rapist was on those apps — and recommended him as a match to women anyway, a lawsuit filed Tuesday alleges.

Stephen Matthews, a Denver-based cardiologist, was convicted of drugging and/or sexually assaulting 11 women between 2019 and 2023, and sentenced to 158 years to life in prison in October 2024.

A bombshell investigation by The Markup and the Pulitzer Center's AI Accountability Network, reported in February, revealed that women had reported Matthews on apps like Hinge, but that he was still allowed to remain on the app.

"Match Group fails to have effective systems to institute bans not only within its products, but across products when abusers migrate from one product to another," the new complaint says. The action has been brought by six women against IAC, Inc. (which owned Match until 2020), Match Group, Hinge, Tinder, and Matthews himself.

The suit claims that Match Group began receiving complaints about Matthews drugging and raping women via Hinge no later than September 2020, and that Match "knowingly continued to welcome Matthews on its apps" despite learning its products "were facilitating his rape spree."

The six plaintiffs are women whom Match Group apps recommended to Matthews, and vice versa. Five were drugged and raped after Matthews matched with them on Hinge, and one on Tinder, the suit states.

In September 2020, one of the women reported her incident with Matthews on Hinge the day after it occurred. Hinge Trust and Safety confirmed receiving her report — yet in January 2021, Hinge recommended Matthews to the same woman, the suit alleges. She reported him again, and warned Hinge that it was introducing "a potential threat to other women within the Hinge community."

Hinge Trust and Safety confirmed it received her previous report, the suit says. It also assured her Hinge already banned Matthews and that he'd be banned again, and responded by saying it was taking steps to ensure he'd be permanently banned. But Matthews concurrently used Tinder.

"For the three years that followed, Match Group was armed with knowledge that Matthews was raping its members, yet it continued to give Matthews full access to its products and recommended Matthews to other members and other members to him for in-person romantic encounters," the lawsuit states.

It also says Matthews used his real name, the same photographs and descriptions of his job, and the same phone number for his profiles.

Matthews was arrested in March 2023 after one woman reported him to the Denver police. Nine more women came forward to the police with similar allegations dating back to 2019.

A website called matchgrouplawsuit.com has been set up by the plaintiffs' counsel, encouraging other survivors of Matthews to get in touch.

"Any report of sexual assault or violence is heartbreaking and deeply concerning," a Match Group spokesperson told Mashable. "Safety is foundational to the trust our users place in us and is critical to the success of our business, which is why we have a comprehensive suite of safety tools in place and continue to invest heavily in this area."

The spokesperson continued: "We are committed to strengthening our safety efforts, building innovative new technology, and working closely with industry partners to help protect our users. We will always look for ways to improve our systems and help our community stay safe both online and when they connect in real life."

If you have experienced sexual abuse, call the free, confidential National Sexual Assault hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673), or access the 24-7 help online by visiting online.rainn.org.

TL;DR: Save up to 50% at LELO and get a free SONA 2 Travel on orders over $199. The extended Cyber Week sale ends in 20 hours.

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LELO Cyber Week Sale

Score up to 50% off and get a free SONA 2 Travel for all orders $199+.

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We are well past Cyber Monday, but LELO’s Cyber Week Sale (something the brand is calling its “Come hard, save hard” event, which I’m honestly here for) is still live. During what’s left of the sale, you can get up to 50% off select toys and a free SONA 2 Travel on any order that’s $199+ (which shouldn’t be too hard to reach).

There are quite a few products included in the sale, but my favorites are the ENIGMA Double Sonic and the SMART WAND 2 Large. (I own the ENIGMA Wave and the SMART WAND 2 Medium, so I can vouch for the quality here.)

The ENIGMA Double Sonic is a triple stimulation vibe that’s similar to the Wave, but it swaps out WaveMotion tech for the brand’s new DeepSonic tech. This is designed specifically to stimulate the A-spot (located between the cervix and the bladder) to help you reach a vaginal orgasm. You can even connect it to your phone via Bluetooth to use the LELO app, which has a “FINISH ME OFF” mode that slowly builds you up, and an “OUT OF CONTROL” mode if you want to push past your normal limits.

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ENIGMA Double Sonic

$244.30 at LELO
$349 Save $104.70

 

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LELO SMART WAND 2 Large

$143.28 at LELO
$199 Save $55.72

 

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I know this all sounds like marketing speak, but I can personally vouch for this design — the orgasms are truly delicious in every sense of the word. (Just be sure to follow my golden rule: USE LUBE!) The ENIGMA Double Sonic is $244.30 with the discount, so it automatically qualifies you for that free SONA 2 Travel.

If you’re not into triple stimulation and just want a top-tier wand, the SMART WAND 2 is one of my all-time favorites. It’s powerful, easy to hold, and delivers vibrations intense enough to make you come in seconds. The Large version is $55.72 off right now, but it won't get you to that $199 free gift threshold on its own. I’d recommend pairing it with something like the LYLA 2 (on sale for $84.50). It’s a bullet vibe with a remote, which is perfect if you want to give your partner the reins or get a little adventurous with some public play.

The dating app Coffee Meets Bagel found a few contradictions in its first Dating Realness Report — which seems to sum up dating in 2025.

Over nine in 10 daters are looking for something serious, according to a survey of over 1,000 21-35 year-olds in the U.S. (who are working professionals either actively looking for a relationship or aren't actively searching but are open to one).

Specifically, 61 percent are seeking a spouse, and 31 percent are looking for a long-term partner. But 93 percent think dating is challenging, and nearly half (45 percent) think a relationship is harder to commit to than a job.

Some of the biggest pain points when dating are endless swiping without meaningful matches (54 percent), getting ghosted or unmatched (47 percent), and figuring out what to say or how to start a conversation (43 percent).

Now, take AI. Eighty percent of survey respondents are comfortable with AI assisting with dating tasks. However, if they found out they used AI to write their profile or message, around 65 percent would be less likely to engage with them, have a negative impression of them, or wouldn't be sure what to think.

Coffee Meets Bagel also found that while Gen Z was more comfortable with AI than millennials, they're also less likely to engage with a profile that used AI compared to their older counterparts.

This is similar to what Hinge found in its latest report as well: while Gen Z wants deeper connections, some are using AI to date.

And CMB's survey found that emotional connection and chemistry are a must-have for a majority of daters (73 percent), even higher than physical attraction (63 percent).

Shared values and beliefs (59 percent) rounded out the top three must-have qualities, followed by ambition/drive (57 percent) and shared interests (53 percent).

Interestingly, when broken down, more millennials (76 percent) chose emotional connection as a must-have than Gen Z (68 percent). Yet, more Gen Z chose ambition/drive than millennials (61 percent versus 52 percent).

And in this time of economic uncertainty, the highest life priority ranked was financial stability (54 percent), followed by health and wellness (49 percent), then love and relationships, which tied with family (47 percent each).

Coffee Meets Bagel also asked about the top challenges after matching. Gen Z and millennials differed only slightly in their answers: mixed signals (42 percent Gen Z, 44 percent millennial), starting or keeping conversations going (40 percent Gen Z, 38 percent millennial), and getting ghosted (38 percent Gen Z, 40 percent millennial).

Do dating apps still work in 2025?

We get it, though. Dating as a man in 2025 is tough. It's not just the pressure to make or the fear of rejection if you do — it's the endless swiping through fake profiles, scammers, AI-generated thirst traps, bots posing as potential matches, relentless Instagram models trying to lure you into their OnlyFans scam, and matches with impossibly high expectations (yes, the "6-6-6 rule" is a real thing).

But despite the challenges, dating apps do work. A 2025 SSRS Opinion Panel Omnibus survey found that nearly 39 percent of all U.S. adults have used a dating app at some point. The numbers are even higher for young people and the LGBTQ+ community.

While the experience isn't always perfect, plenty of guys find success. According to an older, 2023 Pew Research survey, 53 percent of people who've used a dating app said they had a positive experience, with 14 percent rating it as "very positive." And there's more good news — 57 percent of guys reported positive experiences and results compared to 48 percent of women.

The best dating apps for guys who know what they want

This guide is your cheat sheet for the best dating apps for men in 2025. We've done the research and found the apps that are actually worth your time. Whether you're looking for something casual or something serious, we have a dating app to recommend.

Pro tip: Don't be afraid to experiment. Try out a few different apps and see what works for you. And most importantly, don't get discouraged! Sometimes, the occasional bad date or disappointing flirtation is just the price you pay to meet the match of a lifetime.

AI has loomed large in the realm of love in 2025. And it's set to loom even larger in 2026, according to a major sex toy retailer's predictions for the year ahead.

Twenty-five percent of Gen Z and 26 percent of millennials have already spoken to AI about sex, per the TwentyTwentySex report by Lovehoney, the UK's leading sexual wellness retailer.

In fact, more people are turning to AI for advice (52 percent) over speaking to their friends (32 percent) or their partners (22 percent), according to the brand, which surveyed 2,022 nationally representative respondents.

People are treating AI as their sex therapists, per the report. Interestingly, the data shows that young men are more likely to have spoken to AI about sex (30 percent of Gen Z men and 34 percent of millennial men). While getting a bit of sex advice from ChatGPT might sound harmless, experts warn against using AI as a therapist, stating that the risks of doing so (like it becoming a harmful feedback loop) are not worth it.

Lovehoney's report states that "2026 is expected to mark a major shift in how we seek guidance, validation, and connection." The sex toy brand is calling this trend "digital threesomes," although I don't think that means anyone will be jumping into bed with an LLM anytime soon.

At the same time, daters are also shifting their love lives away from the digital realm, turning instead to real-life connections. We've seen the rise of offline dating events, with singles flocking to singles' nights, including speed dating, coffee shop dates, run clubs, and many more activity-based socials.

Lovehoney states that "with dating app fatigue at an all-time high, more singles will turn to real-world connections." Thirty percent of Gen Z have met a sexual or romantic partner through dating apps, compared with 35 percent of millennials.

Sexologist Elisabeth Neumann, head of user research at Lovehoney, said: “With dating apps in decline, we're seeing the return of analogue intimacy, from office romances to speed-dating nights."

"This trend could unfold in stark contrast to technological advancements, with technology itself seducing us through AI dating coaches, digital threesomes, and fantasy-fuelled escapism."

While chastity reigned as 2025's fetish of the year, the explicit site Clips4Sale has a new frontrunner — and it's practically the opposite: gooning. It's the act of edging for hours or even days while watching porn, so much so that participants enter a hypnotic state (aptly called the "goon state").

Sales of gooning videos have spiked 151 percent since November 2023 on Clips4Sale, according to a blog post shared with Mashable — and 49 percent in the past six months alone. It's the fastest-growing fetish on the site.

Credit: Clips4Sale

The phenomenon has entered our cultural lexicon in recent years, as seen by a similar trajectory on Google Search. "Gooning" accounted for nearly one million searches in the past month, and since 2023, it has soared in search rankings.

Credit: Glimpse / Google Trends

"Gooning isn't JUST about masturbation! It involves overstimulation of the senses, bright color, exposure to stimuli (porn) at an excessive amount and exaggeration in visuals, demands, etc," performer Master Celestress, who's been creating gooning content since 2019, stated in a press release shared with Mashable.

"There's a psychological aspect to gooning that I feel is overlooked. It became a buzzword where jerking off equals gooning and nope, it's not!" she continued. "Gooning is more of a state of mind than anything else!"

The rise of gooning has occurred at the same time as an increased scrutiny of the porn industry and online speech. Age-verification laws, which typically require personal data like a government ID or a facial scan to view such content, have been enacted in half of U.S. states and other countries like the UK and France. And in the U.S., several bills have been introduced this year to ban porn (though none have been passed). Despite widespread disapproval of porn, gooning — which takes porn viewing and masturbation to another level — has prevailed.

"Gooning is the perfect fetish for our sex-and-tech obsessed culture," Clips4Sale spokesperson Avery Martin said in the press release. "It's an embrace of radical pleasure at a time of reactionary sexual politics. In the midst of moral panics about porn and technology, gooners have reclaimed both to turn the narrative on its head, embracing an almost religious pursuit of pleasure. In the past year, creators have seized on the moment and are creating incredible, and incredibly creative, content to feed this large and voracious audience."

Meanwhile, giantess, which was Clips4Sale's 2024 fetish of the year, was the most searched for fetish in the U.S. in 2025. Wrestling, tickling, vore, and ballbusting followed it in the top five.

Le Wand is one of the most well-known names in the wand vibrator market. The company’s known for its luxe, high-performance designs and innovative tech. Of course, premium quality comes with a premium price, but Le Wand’s been doing the most to keep costs down (when tariffs are running rampant).

In August, the brand launched its most affordable line yet: the Glow Collection. Each vibrator in the lineup (the Le Wand Flat Top Fusion G, Le Wand Thrust, Le Wand Hither, and Le Wand Lick) is under $100 — this move made the brand’s advanced tech more accessible.

Now, the brand’s serving up its signature design with a twist (and an even better price point) with the launch of its Classique Collection, and every single wand comes with a freebie and a three-year warranty.

Here’s everything you need to know about the new collection:

Le Wand Classique Mini Rechargeable Vibrating Massager, $54.99

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Le Wand Classique Mini Rechargeable Vibrating Massager

$54.99 at Le Wand

 

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The most affordable wand in the Classique lineup is the Le Wand Classique Mini Rechargeable Vibrating Massager. This little guy is super cute (it's the smallest wand in the bunch), travel-friendly, and comes with a free storage bag. In addition to its compact design, which is def a plus (especially with holiday travel coming up for many of us), it has 10 vibration intensities, a travel lock (which is super handy; nothing's worse than pretending your suitcase isn't buzzing when it clearly is), and can run for 90 minutes on a single charge. It's also IPX7 waterproof, so you can take it in the shower. (Sometimes, that's the only place I can get some alone time myself, so I get it.)

Classique Rechargeable Petite, $84.99

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Le Wand Classique Cordless Petite Rechargeable Vibrating Massager

$84.99 at Le Wand

 

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If you're looking for something that's a little bit bigger but not too big, the Le Wand Classique Cordless Petite Rechargeable Vibrating Massager is the second-most-affordable wand in the Classique Collection. It's $84.99 and comes with a free storage bag and a hands-free massager holder. (This device is ideal for people with mobility issues, arthritis, or for those of you who are ready to experiment with new positions.) Like the Mini, this wand has 10 vibration intensities, and it's rechargeable via a USB-C cable. (Of course, the charging cable comes with it.) You'll get two hours of playtime after a 90-minute charge. It's also IPX7 waterproof and has a travel lock.

Classique Plug-In, $89.99

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Le Wand Classique Plug-In Original Full-Body Vibrating Massager

$89.99 at Le Wand

 

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Next up is the Le Wand Classique Plug-In Original Full-Body Vibrating Massager. This wand vibe is what I like to call a "traditional wand vibe" because it plugs into the wall. It's $89.99 and comes with a free storage bag and a hands-free massager holder. The wand also features 10 vibration intensities and a travel lock. It's plug-and-play with an eight-inch cord, so it'll literally never die as long as it's plugged in. (A pretty nifty feature for anyone interested in edging.)

Classique Rechargeable Original, $139.99

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Le Wand Classique Cordless Original Rechargeable Vibrating Massager

$139.99 at Le Wand

 

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The Le Wand Classique Cordless Original Rechargeable Vibrating Massager is the last vibe in the Classique lineup, and it's also the most expensive, but for good reason. With 8800 RPM power, this wand vibrator was built for deep relaxation. It has a flat, soft head with a flexible neck so you can really reach every spot. And, with this one, you'll get four hours of playtime on a single charge. Just note: this vibe isn't waterproof; it's IPX6 splash-proof, which means you probably shouldn't take it in the bathtub. Like the other wands on this list, it has a travel lock and 10 vibration intensities.

Privacy seems elusive in today's world, especially pertaining to our most sensitive information. If you watch porn, you probably want to shield yourself from prying eyes of advertisers, your internet service provider — or even your government.

As of November 2025, around half of the United States and several countries, including the UK and France, have enacted age-verification laws. Typically, these laws require visitors to sites containing explicit content to input personal data (like a government ID or facial scan) to access that material. To get around these laws, many people are using VPNs — if spikes in searches for them in areas that passed these laws are to be believed.

A VPN, or virtual private network,  masks your current location, and there are plenty available, free or paid, as apps or browser extensions. 

These networks are easy to use, but should you use a VPN to watch porn? The answer is complicated. 

VPNs aren't "an anonymity cloak," said Yael Grauer, investigative tech reporter at Consumer Reports, despite what their marketing may say. The reality is, some scenarios are best suited for other web security tools — and it's actually possible that a VPN can weaken your safety.

How do VPNs work?

Rindala Alajaji, a legislative activist at the digital civil liberties nonprofit, Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), compares VPNs to a P.O. box. If you send a letter and put a P.O. box as the returning address, the recipient won't know exactly where it came from. Similarly, if you visit a website using a VPN, that website won't know exactly where you are.

VPNs are a privacy and security tool that protects you in three key ways according to Haych Li, former vice president at ExpressVPN. 

One is that VPNs encrypt your internet traffic and data. When this information is unencrypted, anyone in the chain between you and the destination (say, a porn site) can potentially see it. An example is the owner of a WiFi hotspot you use at a coffee shop. With a VPN, however, your traffic can't be seen by that intermediary. 

Secondly, VPNs encrypt DNS (Domain Name System) requests. Li compared DNS to a phonebook. A DNS request is like looking up a number in the phonebook — you're asking your computer to find something, like a website.

The third tactic is that VPNs mask your IP address, which is a unique number connected to your device and linked to your location. Computers need IP addresses in order to communicate with each other and know "where" to send information. When using a VPN, you replace your actual IP address with the VPN's address.

"A VPN concentrates on hiding your real IP address," explained Chris Hauk, consumer privacy champion at online privacy blog Pixel Privacy, "while also encrypting your internet connection so third-parties can't easily track you simply by monitoring your connection.”

Is VPN safe for private browsing?

Know that any VPN won't make you totally anonymous. Sites can track you in ways besides your IP address. For example, a site's cookies (a file on your computer that tracks your activity) or other trackers will still be there even if you use a VPN, said Jon Callas, former director of technology projects at EFF.

Further, some VPN companies have reported to log their user traffic, a cybersecurity expert focused on data privacy for high-profile executives told Mashable. This is typically done by "free" VPNs that generate revenue by selling traffic data to targeted media companies. "Most higher-end, paid VPNs are safe and have a 'no logging' policy, which is vetted by third parties in some cases," the expert said.

Browser fingerprinting is yet another way you can be followed online. This method logs data like your browser, operating system, screen resolution, and language. 

Further, your browsing history will still exist if you use a VPN, Callas explained. If you paid for anything, the site has your payment information as well.

When choosing whether to use a VPN, ask yourself what you want to protect yourself from, said Grauer. This is to discern whether a VPN is actually the best option.

Here are two instances Grauer said they could be useful for porn viewing: 

• To bypass a firewall (say, on hotel WiFi that blocks porn sites)

• If you're worried about your ISP (internet service provider) seeing and potentially selling your data, as VPNs hide your info from your ISP

Grauer herself isn't concerned with the latter point. "There's a lot of people that look at porn," she said, "so personally, I don't feel the need to hide that I look at it…from my internet service provider."

What about snooping family or roommates? Clearing your browser history may be your best bet — or even investing in a screen filter so no one physically around you can see what you're browsing. Using an Incognito window, which doesn't log history, may help too, but keep in mind that sites can still track you.

If loved ones or your building management have access to your WiFi and are savvy enough, however, they can potentially access your data. In that case, a VPN could help, Li explained, as it reroutes your traffic. 

Callas agreed. "If the threat is 'I don't want my apartment building to know what porn I watch,' a VPN works," he said.

VPNs enable free speech in some areas as well, said Li. Should you live in a country where queer sex and thus queer porn is illegal, a VPN could mask your IP from the government. Grauer wouldn't rely on one in these severe instances, however, as VPNs can fail. She recommended people in these circumstances instead contact human rights organizations to figure out what security steps to take, as technology, laws, and government practices are ever-changing.

If the specific VPN you use doesn't have a "kill switch," which shuts off your internet connection if it's not working, then authorities — or whomever else — could potentially see your traffic. Check if your VPN has a kill switch either in the features rundown on the company's website, or in the VPN settings.

Is using a VPN illegal in the U.S.?

No, VPNs are legal in the U.S. and many other countries. This isn't the case everywhere, though. ExpressVPN has a list of countries where VPN use is illegal.

In Wisconsin and Michigan, however, bills have been introduced to ban VPNs. The children's commissioner for England said that VPNs were a "loophole" to the area's age-verification law that "needs closing."

In an EFF blog post about VPN bans, Alajaji wrote about Wisconsin's proposed demand to "block VPN users" from the state — and how that's technically impossible.

"The technology just doesn't work that way," she wrote. "Websites subject to this proposed law are left with this choice: either cease operation in Wisconsin, or block all VPN users, everywhere, just to avoid legal liability in the state."

Due to age-verification laws, Pornhub has ceased operation in 22 states as of this publication. Should VPNs become banned in Wisconsin or elsewhere, a similar domino effect could take place.

VPNs and age-verification laws

Different experts offer varying advice on whether to use VPNs when in a location with age-verification laws that require submitting personal data to view complying porn sites. (And none of this is legal advice.)

"As a cybersecurity professional, I will not help anyone, including a client, bypass the law," founder and CEO of Solace Truly Personal Cybersecurity, Paul Pioselli, told Mashable. "From a privacy perspective, however, I do encourage clients to understand the risks they face when visiting sensitive websites, including the trail of data that their Internet Service Provider, ad networks, and data brokers can collect about them."

"While using a VPN can help obscure an individual's location and improve privacy, no tool, including a VPN is a magic shield against the law," Pioselli continued. 

Data privacy expert and CEO of Privacy Bee, Harry Maugans, however, told Mashable that using a VPN is an option. In his view, the internet is supposed to be a free domain for people to go wherever they want and use it how they want to use it — and that these laws shouldn't exist.

"If people need to use a VPN to bypass a law that probably shouldn't be legal in the first place, I think more power to them," Maugans said. "They absolutely should."

Not all VPNs are made equal 

"Some [VPNs] are more trustworthy than others," said Grauer, who tested 16 VPNs along with her team in 2021. In its evaluation, Consumer Reports focused on characteristics like whether a VPN company conducted third-party security audits, and whether the company itself held customer information — as opposed to ease of use and cost. This takes into account what security experts look for in a platform.

Grauer found that most VPN companies fell short in terms of exorbitant ad claims (like that they provide "military-grade encryption," which isn't a real term or standard of protection) and poor privacy practices such as selling user data. A few, however, had truthful marketing and better policies like security checks by outside companies: IVPN, Mozilla VPN, and Mullvad VPN.

Hauk doesn't recommend free VPNs as they sometimes sell data, or even insert their own tracking cookies into a user's browser settings. If your goal is to stop your ISP from seeing and selling your data, a free VPN could do exactly what you're trying to prevent.

Each VPN is different, so when looking for one, check if and how they collect user data. 

What should you not use a VPN for?

"VPNs can be used as a security tool, a privacy tool, or in some niche cases such as an investigative report, obfuscating digital signature," the anonymous cybersecurity expert explained.

Here are some examples where a VPN isn't necessary, according to the expert:

• If an employer has a corporate VPN for individual use, a secondary VPN isn't needed.

• In your own home. "Some experts might disagree with this, but if the home has a secure network with no unknown devices, the VPN has little use as a security tool," the expert said. "However, if there are privacy concerns regarding what websites can see your IP address and general location, then using a VPN has [a] benefit."

Helpful privacy measures besides VPN

A VPN isn't the end-all of security; other tools could better help with various issues. 

If you're worried about advertising trackers on porn sites following you throughout the web, Grauer recommends a tracker blocker like Privacy Badger, created by EFF, or uBlock Origin.

Should you be concerned about malware, try one of the many malware removal and protection services on the market.

Another tool is a privacy-focused browser. Brave is Hauk's favorite, as it blocks third-party tracking cookies and ads by default and randomizes your fingerprint, along with similar protections.

Additionally, Hauk singled out the latest versions of Apple's Safari as it offers privacy and anti-tracking features alongside the introduction of macOS Monterey, like tracker blocking.

Opera also has excellent protections, said Hauk, like its own VPN. "Users should keep in mind though that the Opera VPN only protects the user's in-browser activity," he noted. "The rest of your online activity, such as from apps like P2P torrenting apps, is still left out in the open."

Grauer mentioned Google Chrome, as Google has a robust security team, though you need to specifically opt out of Google tracking your data.

So, should you use a VPN to watch porn?

Are you concerned about your internet service provider, housemates, or building manager accessing your data? Then yes — a VPN would help. Furthermore, if you're in a hotel or somewhere that has a firewall up for porn sites, a VPN can also circumvent that.

Remember, however, that not all VPNs are the same. Take a look at their fine print to see if they're going to collect or sell your data. If a privacy policy doesn't explicitly state that the company won't sell your data, that could be a red flag.

Read specific porn sites' terms of service and privacy policies to see how exactly they'll track you, too, Grauer said. According to Pornhub's privacy policy, for example, the site tracks IP addresses and sets cookies, which have the potential to collect information about your site usage. If your VPN works properly, your IP address will be hidden — but you'll need another tool to take care of the cookies.

Ultimately, a VPN won't make you invisible to porn sites nor others. There are, however, additional services like tracker blockers that can make your experience that much more private.

Our top 3 VPN picks:

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Credit: ExpressVPN

Best overall choice

 

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Best value

 

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Best for power users

 

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Learn more about the best VPNs for staying anonymous on the web.

Update: This article was originally published in 2022 and updated in November, 2025, amid the enaction of age-verification laws in the U.S. and other countries. It contains interviews from 2022 as well as 2025.

Porn has taken a hit in the UK in the wake of the introduction of compulsory age verification this year, according to communications regulator Ofcom.

VPN usage more than doubled, while porn viewership plummeted following the enforcement of age checks, per Ofcom's Online Nation report, released Wednesday.

Prior to July 25, when age verification became mandatory in the UK, VPNs had around 650K daily users. By mid-August, 1.5 million users were accessing VPNs, and by November that number had declined to 900K.

Porn sites, meanwhile, saw a sharp drop in users in the immediate aftermath of the law coming into effect, according to the report. Pornhub, the largest UK porn service, saw a dramatic decrease in traffic in the month after age checks came into play. In August, Pornhub's total website visitors was down by 1.5 million compared to August 2024 (11.3 million in Aug. 2024 compared to 9.8 million in Aug. 2025). Since then, traffic to the top 10 most-visited porn services has stayed at a "lower level" than prior to July.

The UK's new Online Safety Act states that websites with explicit content are legally required to install age-checks for all users, so minors don't access the content. Any websites or apps that fail to comply will be liable for fines of £18 million or 10 percent of worldwide revenue.

Five million age checks are now completed on a daily basis in the UK, according to the Age Verification Providers Association (AVPA). And, per Ofcom's report, 7.8 million visitors from the UK are accessing adult sites which have rolled out age checks.

Age checks are not only impacting those accessing pornography online. Newsletter platform Substack announced in Nov. 2025 that it would require UK users to complete age checks in order to comply with the law. Dating apps including Feeld, Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble also announced that they would comply with the country's requirements.

Child safety is at the core of the Online Safety Act. That being said, research shows that age verification laws do not succeed in keeping minors away from adult content.

As Mashable associate editor Anna Iovine has reported, "Experts have long told Mashable that these laws won't work for their intended purpose of keeping minors off pornographic websites." Experts have also expressed serious concerns about the broader impact of these laws on the way adults access the entire internet, not just porn.

Hinge's founder and CEO, Justin McLeod, is stepping down to launch Overtone, an AI-driven dating service.

McLeod launched Hinge in 2012, according to its website, and relaunched the popular dating app in 2016 "with a renewed commitment — helping people find love."

McLeod mentions the relaunch in a blog post on Overtone's website, stating that public sentiment was turning on dating apps at the time, and so was his. So he made the decision "to tear down Hinge as we knew it and rebuild from scratch."

"And yet, as the cultural tides shift again, I've begun to feel a stir familiar to the one that sparked our reinvention ten years ago," McLeod writes, harking to the degrading public opinion of dating apps (even though Hinge has monetarily grown between 2024 and 2025).

McLeod then goes on to discuss the rise of AI connections and how they can't compare to human relationships — but that "AI, if used correctly, can help us invent an entirely new way for people to find their partners that is far more personal, far more efficient, and far more effective."

For the last year, McLeod and a small team within Hinge have been developing Overtone, which a Hinge spokesperson described to Mashable as an "AI-driven venture backed by Match Group" (the dating app conglomerate that acquired Hinge in 2018).

"Think less like a social platform, more like the experience of working with an all-star personal matchmaker," McLeod says in the blog post. "A service that prioritizes getting to know you — and everyone else — so it can make curated, personalized introductions to people on your wavelength."

Jackie Jantos, formerly president and chief marketing officer, will become Hinge's new CEO, according to a press release. Tamika Young will be Hinge's chief marketing and communications officer after previously serving as senior vice president of global communications. McLeod will remain as an adviser to Hinge through March.

Hinge, like many dating and hookup apps, has been leaning into AI recently. This month, it launched Convo Starters, an AI feature designed to help break the ice with a first message that's better than "hey." In January, Hinge released AI-driven prompt feedback to encourage users to write more thoughtful responses to prompts.

Hinge's own users are using AI to date, according to a report released by the app in November.

Overtone won't be the first AI-driven "matchmaker." Earlier this year, Mashable interviewed Nandini Mullaji, founder of AI matchmaking app Sitch. Another matchmaking service, Three Day Rule, launched an AI-powered matchmaking app this fall.

Pornhub's annual Year in Review — aka its trends roundup — is here, and it's especially interesting in a year of censorship of both pornographic and LGBTQ content.

LGBTQ content is thriving on Pornhub

"Lesbian" was the most-viewed video category on Pornhub in 2025, which isn't too surprising, as viewers, especially women, often search for lesbian porn. Terms like "lesbian scissoring," "lesbian MILF," and "lesbian strapon" grew considerably in 2025.

But LGBTQ content across the board grew on Pornhub this year, too. The "transgender" video category was the second-most viewed, up five spots from last year. "Queer" searches increased 132 percent, "bisexual" 88 percent, and "trans threesome" 67 percent.

This spike is notable, considering the actions the Trump administration has taken against LGBTQ (especially trans) rights this year. Shortly after Trump's inauguration in January, the White House deleted LGBTQ pages on its website, while the Stonewall Monument site erased "transgender" and "queer." A Trump executive order declared to "restore biological truth" to the federal government. Some tech giants were noticeably quiet during Pride Month this year, signaling their compliance with the current administration's views on LGBTQ people.

Yet, LGBTQ videos are booming on Pornhub.

"What's happening in 2025 is more than just an increase in views; it's a cultural shift," said trans Pornhub brand ambassador, Natassia Dreams, in a blog post shared with Mashable. "This growth shows trans creators are finally being seen and celebrated on our own terms. Audiences and the industry are evolving together."

Considering the popularity of transgender content among boomers in Pornhub's 2023 Year in Review, there might be something about the increased "taboo" of such topics.

The term "femboy" (describing a feminine man) was also searched more often on the straight side of Pornhub this year, too. It reached the top 10 of the most searched-for terms in 2025 worldwide. Meanwhile, it's number one on Pornhub Gay, up three spots from last year.

U.S. still dominates in traffic

Despite Pornhub being blocked in nearly half of U.S. states (due to age-verification laws, which require inputting personal data to access explicit sites), the United States has far and away the top source of traffic to the tube site.

Credit: Pornhub

And while Pornhub is now blocked in France, it's still in the top 10 countries by traffic even with it being accessible only part of 2025.

Pornhub's most-searched terms of 2025

Like last year, "hentai" (anime porn) is the most-searched term globally, followed by "MILF," "pinay" (a woman of Filipino descent), "lesbian," and "anal," rounding out the top five. None of these terms changed positions from 2024.

Top Pornhub trends of 2025

1. "Diverse desires" — aka the LGBTQ content discussed above.

2. MILFs: In addition to MILF being the second most-searched term globally, "mature" was the fifth most-viewed category and third among men. "GILF" searches increased 129 percent this year, while terms "cougar" grew 83 percent and "50 plus" grew 105 percent.

3. Roleplay fantasies increased in 2025 as well. The "role play" category as a whole rose by 98 percent, and searches for everyday jobs also increased, such as for "driver" (144 percent), "plumber" (67 percent), and "chef" (39 percent).

4. Cheating and affair videos were of interest this year, as searches for "cheating" grew 94 percent and "cuckold" up 73 percent. Another adult site, Clips4Sale, named the latter one of the fastest-growing fetishes of the year, so clearly there's something there. And the Coldplay Kiss Cam fiasco might have contributed to a 210 percent spike in "office affair" searches and a 388 percent increase for "CEO."

5. Femboys are gaining traction on Pornhub's main website.

6. "SFW" content is, somehow, increasing on the very much NSFW Pornhub. "SFW ASMR" is up 56 percent, for example. Meanwhile, the "podcast" category has soared 327 percent, "gaming" by 283 percent, and "music" by 62 percent.

You can peruse Pornhub's Year in Review in full on its insights blog.

In its latest report, Hinge found that singles are using AI to date — and they're getting in on the trend. Earlier this year, the dating app introduced AI-driven prompt feedback to help users write better profiles.

Now, Hinge is launching Convo Starters, another AI feature that seeks to help daters break the ice.

Convo Starters, which offers daters personalized tips for starting a conversation based on a potential match's prompt responses and photos, will appear when a user sends a like to someone else.

Daters will see three unique tips, each encouraging them to ask questions, share ideas, or express their opinions. The Convo Starters are optional, and users can also enable or disable the feature in their settings. Users will also write a message in their own voice.

Credit: Hinge

"We've heard from daters that not knowing what to say can hold them back from sending a comment at all," Hinge's president and CMO, Jackie Jantos, stated in a press release shared with Mashable. "With Convo Starters, we're easing that pressure. By offering gentle guidance grounded in someone's profile, we're helping daters start thoughtful, genuine conversations that show real interest — and bring them one step closer to a great first date."

Given that Hinge also recently found that Gen Z daters have more trouble initiating a deep conversation than millennials, this new feature tracks.

The AI-powered feature is available in the U.S. today. In addition to using generative AI, Convo Starters also utilizes insights from Hinge's research team and behavioral scientists, as stated in the press release.

Hinge pointed out that both Convo Starters and Prompt Feedback don't provide copy-and-paste responses for singles, as part of the app's AI principles of transparency, authenticity, and equity.

Hinge isn't the only app baking AI into its app. Before it rebranded to Bumble BFF, Bumble for Friends launched a similar feature to Convo Starters — AI icebreakers — back in 2023. And Tinder is testing an AI matching feature called Chemistry, set to launch next year.

The need to render the nude form has dominated human expression for centuries. In Western art history, one of the oldest known interpretations of a naked body is the Venus of Willendorf, possibly dating back to around 24,000 BCE. Later, we saw the mosaic art of Narcissus, enamored by his own member in a second-century latrine. Centuries down the line, in the early Renaissance, Italy's obsession with nudes included Michelangelo's David and Manet's controversial Olympia, featuring a real woman and not a mythical figure. 

As time moved onto Snapchatting genitals to a possible love interest you swiped right on, our fascination with the human body remains a constant drumbeat of society. It has also become more accessible, particularly over the last few decades, with the rise of smartphones and social media. As many as eight out of 10 adults share intimate content, including nudes, with each other, 2024 research shows. 

We've collected the history of the nude, from sculpture to oil paintings, and from cam-chat to Snapchat. But more importantly, we're diving into why, through history, we're prepared to send nudes in whatever form we can.

The first nudes sent

Nudes are often not sent in isolation. Nowadays, at least, they're accompanied by an explicit text or as a result of an exchange on our phones or in person. 

People have been exchanging illicit letters for a long time, largely from married women writing to unmarried men in court, according to Dr. Eleanor Janega, historian, broadcaster, and author specialising in the medieval period. Few of these survive, as many were destroyed or censored from history, according to The Lost Love Letters of Heloise and Abelard Perceptions of Dialogue in Twelfth-Century France, which documents some remaining letters. 

These exchanges were further limited by who was able to send these, thanks to the illiteracy rates of the Middle Ages; few men and hardly any women could write. Portraits were exchanged before arranged marriages were agreed upon, but these did not feature nudity and served to solely convey the appearance of the subject.

"People faced similar issues when sending nudes in the medieval period, because you would need someone to paint or draw you nude, which would be massively expensive," says Janega. 

"Moreover, at the time nudes are, in general, formulaic. People expect a nude to look a particular way, reflecting an idealised form, rather than to be a theoretical 'realistic' portrayal of a person." This, likely being due to the nude form being interpreted as the imperfect and mortal form of humanity, a sentiment that has been felt through time, however not one equally felt across genders — with Ancient Greek sculptures and art more often than not featuring a nude male form, but not female — and if art did feature women, it was likely a depiction of a god and treated demurely, associated with shame rather than a heroic figure.

Nudes in the modern era

The "modern" sending of nudes, as in the conveying of a visual form of our own body, can date back around 200 years to American portrait artist Sarah Goodridge. As Goodridge worked on a commission for a new member of the United States House of Representatives, Daniel Webster, the two began exchanging romantic letters — some of which remain to this day. 

In 1828, Goodridge painted her bare breasts surrounded by white cloth on a small canvas, only 2.6 by 3.1 inches. Intended for Webster's eyes only, as many miniature portraits were, it remained in his family until the 1980s. Little fanfare was made of the discovery of this piece after Webster's death, with scholars noting it was likely kept out of sight and off of inventories due to being deemed inappropriate for public viewing. Now, Goodridge's seemingly untitled work, now known as Beauty Revealed, is now owned by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

Goodridge's private revolutionary act can now be seen as an innovative moment in human sexuality, experts note. By this point, society began to see, as Janega says, "a bunch of rich people with time on their hands who can paint, which means it is only a matter of time before they begin sending nudes as a form of flirtation. You cannot teach generations of people to paint artistic nudes and expect them to use these abilities solely for depicting the rape of Leda," referencing the famed myth of a Spartan queen assaulted by Zeus, King of Gods, bearing his twins.

Beyond this, taking part in the arts institutionally was restricted to men. For instance, the Royal Academy admitted its first woman, Laura Herford, in 1860, and only because her initials were submitted. 

Self-portraiture allowed Goodridge to take control of her presentation of nudity, as it has enabled women to control their presentation to the world, and the narrative placed onto women and femininity. Like Goodridge's radical act, many artists have changed the way women are viewed through their artwork, which was celebrated by the National Portrait Gallery in London in a 2024 exhibition.

Goodridge's romantic gesture lives on, though it required significantly more time and effort to create than a photograph taken on a phone. Still, the importance of this moment can't be underestimated: a visual form of nude form was becoming more accessible than it had been before.

The photographed nude

With the innovation of photography in 1839, our approach to the nude form began to shift, with a pioneer of photography, Hippolyte Bayard, taking a naked self-portrait in 1840. As photography boomed, so did nudes. 

Other 19th-century nude photography remains famed, including those taken by Nadar between 1860 and 1861, often used as studies for paintings. One of his models, Marie-Christine Leroux, went on to pose for many famed artists.

Naked photography would also be included in journals like National Geographic, with white explorers documenting indigenous people encountered around the world — a past the publication is reckoning with.. These images were often taken and printed without consent.

Later, after World War I, nude photography came into its own, with less imitation of paintings and sculptures and more stylized pieces, such as Edward Weston's Nude taken in 1936. Others used photography as a means of insight into hidden lives, such as in Diane Arbus' Retired man and his wife at home in a nudist camp one morning, N.J or to recapture idealized moments of youth, like in Larry Clark's Teenage Lust series, taken in the early 1970s.

With the arrival of the millennium, personal cameras became more ubiquitous, with sales of camera phones reaching 18 million in 2002, 257 million in 2004, and up to 1.24 billion shipments in 2024. The rise of the smartphone spelled a crash for camera sales: camera shipments worldwide dropped by 94 percent between 2010 and 2023.

Smart devices and the ability to instant message revolutionised our approach to sexuality, beginning the era of sexting and cam chats. Sending nudes and explicit messages may have spelled the death of previous forms of interaction. Namely, this means of the love letter, a loss Vogue lamented, along with phone calls, back in 2014, with many seeing the new digital frontier of sexuality as less romantic, and more explicit (not necessarily true, especially if we remember curse-laden love letters written by James Joyce), and intimidating. 

When does art become pornography?

Galleries around the world host pieces showcasing the naked form — but at which point does this transform from being something considered worthy of value, of public importance, to something considered explicit? 

"Boundaries between art and pornography have become increasingly blurred," says Freya Gowrley, art historian at the University of Bristol. She points to Pornhub's Classic Nude project, an interactive online experience, launched in 2021 when access to galleries was still limited. The exhibition offered a virtual tour of 30 famous nude artworks through history, from Paul Cézanne's Bathers to Gustave Courbet's L’Origine du Monde, with pornographic videos inspired by these pieces. 

"Unsurprisingly, several of the big museums objected to their work being used in this context," Gowrley says, with some, like the Louvre, threatening legal action for unauthorised usage of these artworks. However, others noted that the use of various artworks is often left unchallenged, including on sites such as Etsy, which similarly offers a commercial benefit to the redistributor, indicating that moral concerns may have been the root of the concern.

The project also raised interesting questions about the line between art and porn, Gowrley says. "Why is Sarah Goodridge's 'selfie' painting any more artistic than something snapped on an iPhone, or produced in a studio?"

Gowrley compares these to artist Jeff Koons' Made in Heaven series in the late '80s, early '90s, depicting his naked form engaging in sexual acts with his then-wife Ilona Staller, famed for her work in pornography. 

"Moving these images into the gallery space transformed them into art, but does that mean that they are no longer illicit images?" she says.

This question has also been the subject of online debate, following the establishment of FOSTA/SESTA in the U.S. in 2018. The laws, in theory, were meant to curb online sex trafficking, but in practice, large social media sites began deplatforming online sex workers. (Multiple studies show this made sex workers less safe.) Beyond that, artists, including erotic and LGBTQ artists, sometimes find themselves banned or shadowbanned (unable to be discovered) from platforms like Instagram, even though their posts are artistic and not pornographic. Then again, that line is different depending on who you ask.

Advancements in technology rapidly increased our access to the nude form — and sharing our own.

Why do we love to send nudes?

With smartphones, pretty much everyone with an internet connection has the ability to take, send, and receive nude photographs across various apps and platforms. Many people take advantage. Sending nudes on the gay hookup app Grindr, for instance, has become commonplace for queer men. There are even features baked in to protect photographs now, and blogs on Grindr's site referring to the app as a "digital dark room."

Meanwhile, intimate photos make the rounds on Reddit in various 'gone wild' subreddits, leading to other explicit exchanges. Research shows that people who perceive their own attractiveness are more likely to post nudes on Reddit, although they are unlikely to feel high self-esteem at the same time. 

Another study shows that sending nude content often takes place in the context of committed relationships, as a form of expressing and experiencing sexual desires. 

But why do we want to?

We send nudes "because it's basically a form of foreplay, that kind of is a sexual act in itself," says Gigi Engle, author of Kink Curious and resident kink and sex expert for sex-positive community JOYclub.

"I think we play sex on this hierarchy [that] penetrative sex is the most legitimate form, and that's just not really true. Sending sexy pictures is very titillating. It gets us excited."

"I think that sending nudes can be like writing a modern love letter; intimate, exciting, and affirming. But it only works if it's something you want to do, the other person wants to receive it, and both of you understand the risks," says Impola. 

"People like to see those kinds of sexy pictures, that's why we're sending them up. I think there's also an element of people sending them in the heat of the moment without really thinking through some of the repercussions that could happen," Engle suggests. 

The risks of digital intimacy

A 2022 survey shows that 80 percent of participants who have sent an intimate photo of themselves to another worry that it will be acquired by someone else, with 86 percent of men who have received an intimate photo saving it to their device, and 79 percent of women. The famed 2014 leak of celebrity nudes left a lasting legacy;  our phones aren't as secure as we had been led to believe. (Mashable has a guide on safely storing nude images.)

Cyberflashing, a form of indecent exposure taking place digitally, became a crime in the UK in 2024. Despite this, many people have experienced receiving explicit images nonconsensually.  YouGov research in the UK released last year revealed that 55 percent of women under-40 surveyed who can recall the first time they received an unsolicited sexual image say they were under 16 when this occurred. 

Where are we now?

This year, the UK's age verification law, requiring proof of age to visit websites containing explicit content (and in some cases, non-explicit sites like YouTube) came into effect. Reactions have been mixed, as requiring verification can be seen as infringing upon privacy, or simply dodged with a VPN (or images from a video game).

Political divides are opening up between young men and women in the UK and U.S., and it's possible these changing attitudes could impact sexual behaviour in the digital landscape. It's hard to know what's to come next, but looking back over history? It's clear that we all find ourselves longing to be with, see, or interact with another. 

Our digital lives are only expanding, so we'll likely be sending nudes for the foreseeable future, even if our attitudes toward it change.

On Tuesday, Grindr's head of global government affairs, Joe Hack, posted on its blog that the app supports the Republican-backed App Store Accountability Act.

The act is one of a slew of online safety bills U.S. lawmakers considered this week, as reported by WIRED, including the controversial Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which critics claim would chill free speech by censoring online LGBTQ content.

The App Store Accountability Act would require age verification at the App Store level. App Store providers (like Apple and Google) would have to verify an individual's "age category" using personal data (such as an email address or Social Security number). Should a user be a minor, they'd have to obtain parental consent before downloading an app or making an in-app purchase.

The act was introduced back in May in the House by Michigan Rep. John James, and in the Senate by Utah Sen. Mike Lee, both Republicans. This year, Lee also reintroduced the Interstate Oscenity Definition Act, which would seek to redefine what falls under "obscene" material (which isn't protected by the First Amendment). Experts told Mashable the bill would basically ban porn.

But in terms of the App Store Accountability Act, Grindr's Hack wrote, "We support Rep. John James's App Store Accountability Act because it strengthens" the work the app does to keep minors off, including age gating, device-level bans, human moderation, AI tools, and partnerships with child safety organizations.

"The bill creates a single, secure age-verification process at the app-store level and allows developers to receive a verified age signal. This approach, supported by nearly 90% of parents, is safer and more consistent than requiring users to verify their age separately across many apps," Hack continued.

"By contrast, the UK and EU are moving toward fragmented rules that force adults to share sensitive personal information with thousands of apps, creating unnecessary privacy and safety risks," Hack wrote. This references the UK's Online Safety Act, which requires visitors of sites with material that's "restricted to adults" to submit personal information such as ID or a facial scan.

Recently, free speech experts and child safety experts told Mashable that device-level filtering is the preferred method of age verification, as it doesn't require these data checks every time someone wants to go on certain websites. An example is California's AB 1043, which requires operating systems to request an age or birthday during setup, and then creates a signal of a user's age bracket to send to apps (but not websites). AB 1043 takes effect in 2027.

Age-verification laws are sweeping the world. These mandates typically require websites that host explicit content — and some that don't — to obtain personal data from visitors to ensure they're over 18. 

Lawmakers who put these laws forward say they do so to keep minors away from adult content. But experts have also warned Mashable about the privacy and security risks that could arise from these mandates. This year, multiple studies have suggested that these laws don't actually work to keep minors off porn sites. 

With that in mind, is age verification, as it stands, ethical? And what would constitute ethical age-verification? Mashable spoke to several experts, and they all had a similar answer: device-level filters.

Current age-verification systems

In most cases, from the majority of U.S. laws to the UK's Online Safety Act, age verification is platform-based. This means that it's the responsibility of websites to install these age checks — and it hasn't been going well. 

"Age gating, especially the current technology that is available, is ineffective at achieving the goals it seeks to achieve, and minors can circumvent it," said senior policy counsel for ACLU, Cody Venzke. 

A study published in November noted that when these laws took effect in different states, searches for VPNs (virtual private networks, which can mask someone's true location) have skyrocketed, suggesting that people are attempting (and succeeding) to circumvent the laws. Searches for porn sites also increase, which might indicate people searching for websites that don't comply with these laws. 

The ethics behind these systems are murky at best, Mike Stabile, director of public policy at adult industry trade organization, the Free Speech Coalition, told Mashable. "In practice, they've so far functioned as a form of censorship." 

Because of the fear around exposure and data processing — and already we're seeing IDs being exposed, like in October's Discord hack — adults are dissuaded from accessing porn sites. That same November study suggested that the cost of impeding on adults' First Amendment rights (the right to free speech and free expression) doesn't outweigh the benefit of limiting minors' access to porn.

"Unfortunately, we've heard many of the advocates behind these laws say that this chilling effect is, in fact, good. They don't want adults accessing porn," Stabile said. 

Indeed, some lawmakers believe that porn shouldn't be accessible to anyone. Project 2025, the blueprint for President Trump's second term, calls for an outright porn ban and the imprisonment of creators. A Project 2025 co-writer, Russell Vought (who heads the Office of Management and Budget) was caught on a secret recording in 2024, reportedly calling age-verification laws a porn ban from the "back door."

But there is another solution: Device-level filters.

An ethical age assurance method?

"Storing people's actual birth dates on company servers is probably not a good way to approach this, especially for minors... you can't change your birth date if it gets leaked," senior director of AI programs at nonprofit Common Sense Media, Robbie Torney, told Mashable. 

"But there are approaches that are privacy-preserving and are already established in the industry that could go a long way towards making it safer for kids to interact across a wide range of digital services."

We can also distinguish between age verification and assurance. While some people use this interchangeably, the difference is that "age assurance" is more of an umbrella term that includes all the methods you could use to determine age without being prescriptive as to how, while verification typically applies to confirming exact age, like checking ID, Torney said. 

One real age assurance approach that's more privacy-preserving, according to Torney, is outlined in California's law AB 1043, which will take effect in 2027. 

AB 1043 requires operating systems — the software that powers phones, tablets, and computers — to request an age or birthday during setup. Then, it creates an age bracket signal (not your exact age, but a range) on the device, and that signal will be sent to applications, blocking someone if they're underage. 

The law, therefore, requires a device-level filter, something that Aylo (Pornhub's parent company) and free speech experts have recommended for years. 

"Any solution should be easy to use, privacy-preserving, and consumer-friendly. In most cases, that means the verification is going to happen once, on the device," Stabile said. 

Founder and CEO of child safety nonprofit Heat Initiative, Sarah Gardner, told Mashable the same. "Device-level verification is the best way to do age verification because you're limiting the amount of data that you give to the apps. And many of the devices already know the age of the users," she said. 

Apple already implements different safeguards at the device level, she explained. The Communication Safety feature, for example, warns children when they receive or send media containing nudity through iMessage and allows them to get help. Apple recently expanded age-appropriate protections to kids aged 13-17, which includes web content filters.

So it's possible for tech giants like Apple to implement this (and in 2027, they will have to, given the California law). 

But AB 1043 doesn't apply to websites, including adult websites. It only applies to device makers and app stores, allowing apps to restrict age.

"Frankly, we want AB 1043 to apply to adult sites," Stabile said. "We want a signal that tells us when someone is a minor. It's the easiest, most effective way to block minors and doesn't force adults to submit to biometrics every time they visit a website."

Last month, Pornhub sent Apple, Google, and Microsoft letters urging them to enable device-level age assurance for web platforms. Each of the letters, which were shared with Mashable, mentions AB 1043.

Venzke told Mashable that the ACLU is watching the conversations on device-based verification closely and questioning whether they protect people's privacy. 

Will device-level age assurance be adopted more broadly?

Whether the tech giants will go for Pornhub's proposal is a different story. Microsoft declined to comment to Mashable, while an Apple spokesperson linked to a Newsroom update regarding the changes to under-18 accounts. The spokesperson also linked to a child online safety white paper that states, "The right place to address the dangers of age-restricted content online is the limited set of websites and apps that host that kind of content."

Regarding the letter, Google told Mashable that it's "committed to protecting kids online, including by developing and deploying new age assurance tools like our Credential Manager API [application programming interface] that can be used by websites. We don't allow adult entertainment apps on Google Play, and certain high-risk services like Aylo will always need to invest in specific tools to meet their own legal and responsibility obligations."

Torney said that a layered approach to age assurance will likely be necessary in many cases, and Common Sense's stance is that the responsibility lies on both sites, like Pornhub and operating systems. "This has been a little bit like hot potato" between the two, he said.

Despite all these efforts, no age assurance method will be 100 percent effective, Torney said. "But if you're operating from a vantage point of wanting to reduce harm, to increase appropriateness, and to increase youth wellbeing, a more robust age assurance system is going to go much farther to keep the majority of teens safe."

Year-end reflections are upon us, but instead of journaling about your goals, Grindr has data from its annual Unwrapped to make looking back on 2025 a little sexier.

Case in point: "Hung" was the most searched-for profile tag, according to Grindr Unwrapped, which pulls profile data from the app's 15 million monthly users and over 32,000 votes. If you're astrologically inclined, Scorpio was the most favorited zodiac sign.

This year, Grindr users sent over 135 billion total chats and over 12.8 billion total taps (icons you can send to someone you're interested in).

Next, Grindr broke out some data by country, and it's like a kinky United Nations: Finland is the top nation for sending nudes, South Korea apparently has the most open relationships, Switzerland has the most twinks, and Italian users were the most into feet.

Stateside, the U.S. had the highest percentage of self-proclaimed "daddies" by country.

London was the top city to visit for a "gaycation" (Grindr's gotten into travel content recently), while Tokyo, Seattle, and Taipei were among the highest-volume areas where users searched for friends.

"These findings capture a community that's bold, brash, and unapologetically itself," Zachary Zane, Grindr's sex and relationship expert, said in a release shared with Mashable.

You can view the full Grindr Unwrapped on Grindr's app or website.

While dating apps have leaned into AI in 2025, daters longed to meet potential partners in person. The apps are no longer novel, and users are complaining that they're getting worse. Singles are tired of the mixed signals, and while young adults are afraid of being cringe, they also seem to yearn for emotional availability.

This brings us to Tinder's predictions for 2026 dating trends, or its "Year in Swipe" report. Last year, the dating app thought that its users would be "micro-connecting" and intentional this year. What about the next 12 months?

Daters will be up front about what they're looking for

Tinder calls this "clear-coding." Not only do daters know what they want, but they want it to be known. Sixty-four percent of 4,000 young singles (18-25) surveyed told Tinder that emotional honesty is "what dating needs most," while 60 percent are calling for clearer communication around intentions. These singles reside in the U.S., UK, Canada, and Australia, and were surveyed between October and November 2025.

Being apolitical is still out

For the last few years — at least since lockdown and the subsequent U.S. elections — singles have cared more and more about a potential partner's politics. That trend isn't stopping now with what Tinder calls "hot-take dating." Forty-one percent of young singles wouldn't date someone with opposite political views.

That being said, 46 percent would still consider it — but that breaks down to only 35 percent of women and 60 percent of men. (Coffee Meets Bagel found the same thing last year: More women refused to date someone with differing political views than men.)

Tinder also identified some principle-based dealbreakers, such as racial justice (a dealbreaker for 37 percent of daters) and LGBTQ rights (32 percent). Meanwhile, 36 percent consider "family values" as a dealbreaker.

The group chat will be the best matchmaker

Tinder has been betting on friends helping each other date, like with Double Date Mode — and 37 percent of young singles plan to go on group or double dates in 2026. Tinder also reported that 42 percent of young singles said that friends influence their dating life.

Single friends are also looking at their partnered ones for inspo: 34 percent of singles said their friends' relationships give them hope for the future of dating.

Please be emotionally available

Since the onset of COVID, which really put life into perspective for many people during lockdown, dating experts have told Mashable that singles are becoming more intentional about dating. Now, nearly six years on, that hasn't changed: 56 percent of daters surveyed by Tinder said that honest conversations matter most. Forty-five percent want more empathy after rejection.

Daters aren't afraid to use AI

This one isn't an official trend from Tinder's report, but these statistics caught our eye: 76 percent said they'd use AI in their dating journey. Suggesting a date seems the most popular way to use it (39 percent), followed by selecting their best photos and providing bio prompts (both 28 percent).

This aligns with what Match observed earlier this year, that the number of singles using AI to date has soared 300 percent from last year.

These trends seem to build upon what daters and experts have been saying for the past few years, which shows consistency in what daters (or at least, the ones that answer these surveys) want. And while daters have expressed frustration to Mashable this year, this survey suggests they haven't given up. The top word daters used to describe dating in 2026? "Hopeful."

UPDATE: Dec. 3, 2025, 9:04 a.m. EST This article was updated to add survey information.

UPDATE: Dec. 2, 2025, 1:11 p.m. EST This article has been updated given the enactment of Missouri's age-verification law.

The explicit tube site Pornhub is now blocked in 23 U.S. states.

This is due to age-verification laws. These laws vary state by state, but typically require visitors of a site with over a third of explicit content to submit a government ID or other form of age authentication. Louisiana was the first state to enact such a bill a couple of years ago, and now others have followed suit. In June, the Supreme Court deemed Texas's age-verification law constitutional, setting a precedent for such bills that come before and after.

According to one preliminary study, age verification won't work to keep minors off porn sites. This is because of software like VPNs that allow someone to appear to be in a different location, and because of non-compliant websites. (The Florida attorney general is suing foreign-based porn sites for not instituting age verification.) Yet, these laws keep getting passed — and are encroaching on non-explicit websites as well, experts told Mashable.

While Pornhub is not blocked in Louisiana, it is blocked in these states, a Pornhub representative confirmed to Mashable:

• Alabama

• Arizona

• Arkansas

• Florida

• Georgia

• Idaho

• Indiana

• Kansas

• Kentucky

• Mississippi

• Missouri

• Montana

• Nebraska

• North Carolina

• North Dakota

• Oklahoma

• South Carolina

• South Dakota

• Tennessee

• Texas

• Utah

• Virginia

• Wyoming

Pornhub isn't blocked in Ohio despite the state's age-verification law, due to a clause stating that establishing age verification methods doesn't apply to a provider of an interactive computer service (Aylo considers itself one).

In Louisiana, where users must submit ID to view Pornhub, the site has seen traffic decline by around 80 percent, Aylo (Pornhub's parent company) told Mashable.

"These people did not stop looking for porn. They just migrated to darker corners of the internet that don't ask users to verify age, that don't follow the law, that don't take user safety seriously, and that often don't even moderate content. In practice, the laws have just made the internet more dangerous for adults and children," Aylo stated when asked for comment by Mashable back in January.

In a statement to Mashable, Aylo continued:

First, to be clear, Aylo has publicly supported age verification of users for years, but we believe that any law to this effect must preserve user safety and privacy, and must effectively protect children from accessing content intended for adults.

Unfortunately, the way many jurisdictions worldwide have chosen to implement age verification is ineffective, haphazard, and dangerous. Any regulations that require hundreds of thousands of adult sites to collect significant amounts of highly sensitive personal information is putting user safety in jeopardy. Moreover, as experience has demonstrated, unless properly enforced, users will simply access non-compliant sites or find other methods of evading these laws.

Industry experts say that, in addition to not working for their intended purpose, age verification laws also raise concerns about privacy protection and safety since websites now have to host (even more of) people's personal information. It will be harder to be anonymous online, which experts warn is dangerous to free speech. Adult industry experts Mashable spoke to in an explainer on age-verification laws advocated for device-level filters, as did Aylo in its statement.

Some in the adult industry worry about what Trump's second presidential term will bring due to the conservative policy outline Project 2025 and its measures to ban porn. One of Project 2025's authors, Russell Vought, was caught on a secret recording stating that age-verification laws are the "back door" to a broader porn ban.

Age-verification laws have swept the world in recent years. These rules, also known as age assurance or age checks, often require websites that contain a certain (or any) amount of explicit content to confirm that users are over 18. 

But it's not just checking a "yes or no" box anymore. Many of these laws require personal data, such as a photo of a government ID or a facial recognition scan, to access parts of the internet.

While the purported aim of these laws is to keep minors from seeing porn, experts have told Mashable for years that age verification doesn't work for that intended purpose. This is because website companies based in other countries may not comply, or citizens may attempt to circumvent these laws using VPNs (or, in the case of the UK's Online Safety Act, by using images of video game characters). Early research out of NYU has suggested that age verification doesn't work, as well.

Experts also state the digital privacy and security issues that could arise from submitting so much personal information to various websites. One is identity theft, should bad actors obtain access to this data, such as through a phishing scam pretending to be a verification system for a porn site. Another is a lack of access to parts of the internet entirely if someone doesn't have an ID, which could widen the digital divide.

Yet, these laws are spreading throughout the world. Here's a breakdown of the states and countries with age verification laws (so far). 

United States

The United States is distinct in that age-verification laws have been implemented on a state-by-state basis, as opposed to a federal one. While you're not able to access Pornhub in Virginia, for instance, you can drive up to Maryland and browse all you'd like. 

Since Louisiana enacted its age verification law in 2023, similar bills have popped up across the country. Then, in 2025, the Supreme Court ruled that these laws are constitutional, essentially ensuring that more states will implement them as well, experts told Mashable at the time.

States with enacted age verification laws as of this publication, according to the adult industry trade organization the Free Speech Coalition, are:

• Alabama

• Arizona

• Arkansas

• Florida

• Georgia

• Idaho

• Indiana

• Kansas

• Kentucky

• Louisiana

• Mississippi

• Missouri

• Montana

• Nebraska

• North Carolina

• North Dakota

• Ohio

• Oklahoma

• South Carolina

• South Dakota

• Tennessee

• Texas

• Utah

• Virginia

• Wyoming

United Kingdom

The Online Safety Act, which contains the UK's age-verification clause, went into effect in July 2025. Sites and apps must use one of several methods to assure someone's age, such as taking their banking information, matching a photo with an ID, or scanning their face. 

The UK's communication regulatory agency, Ofcom, stated that it will fine up to  £18 million or 10 percent of qualifying worldwide revenue (whichever is greater) for sites that don't comply. Since then, "SFW" sites, from dating apps to Spotify and YouTube, have or will implement age checks in the region (and others). Controversial sites 4chan and Kiwi Farms have sued Ofcom, stating they shouldn't need to comply as they operate outside the UK.

France

France's age verification law, which requires explicit sites to have a third-party system to confirm users' ages, went into effect in June 2025. It also must be "double-blind," meaning the porn site can't know the visitors' age, while the verification system can't know the site the visitor is looking at.

Soon after it was enacted, though, the law was briefly suspended until it was deemed legal by EU law. But in July, France's highest court — the Council of State — annulled the suspension. This caused back and forth with Pornhub, which initially blocked itself in the country, then reinstated itself during that period, only to block itself again after the law's suspension was revoked. 

Italy

Starting November 12, Italy will enact age verification for pornographic sites. Last Friday, Italy's communications agency, AGCOM, released a list of 45 websites that must implement age verification systems to continue functioning in the country, or receive a warning and fines up to 250,000 Euros. The list includes Pornhub and OnlyFans. 

AGCOM stated on its website that a certified independent third party must verify users' ages, doing so in two steps (identification and authentication of the identified person) — and it has to happen every session. When dealing with an app, a separate app must age-verify like a digital ID wallet app.

Australia

This law looks a little different than that of other countries, but its purpose is the same. Australia's age-verification law states that at the end of this year, people will have to verify their ages when logged into their Google or Microsoft accounts and using those search engines. These engines must have tools or settings like "safe search," where explicit content must be filtered out entirely. The highest safety setting must be the default for account holders for whom the age assurance system indicates are likely children. 

If age assurance can't be done, explicit material must be blurred. 

China

Pornography is currently illegal in China, so its age-verification systems also look different. The country has strict age restrictions for video games, livestreaming and video-sharing platforms, payment processors, and social media. Users must undergo Real Name Verification, which requires providing their name and ID number to access these services. Depending on the app, users may have to give more information too, such as their phone number, bank account, and a facial recognition scan.

This list will likely grow longer, and Mashable will update it when it does. Ofcom's group director for online safety, Oliver Griffiths, told Mashable back in June that age verification for porn sites was a "global issue" and sought to instill global norms. It seems that's well on the way.

UPDATE: Dec. 2, 2025, 11:49 a.m. EST The U.S. list has been updated to add Missouri.

Facebook Dating, Meta's dating service that launched in 2019, apparently boasts a whopping 21.5 million daily active users as of November, a spokesperson told Mashable. On top of that, the U.S. leads the pack with the most daily active users and a surprisingly large 1.77 million of those between the ages of 18 and 29, which suggests the platform is becoming pretty popular among the cool kids.

However, these numbers prompted a major eyebrow raise from me. Who are these people? Anecdotally, no one in my social circle of Gen Z and Zillennials has ever touched Facebook Dating, which is an extension of the existing Facebook app. When I told a few friends I planned to try it, I was met with dramatic eye rolls. Sure, some of that reaction tracks with my history of serial dating and app reviewing, but still, given this reaction, is Facebook Dating really that popular among young adults?

Tinder has 50 million users who use it every month, according to its Newsroom, while Hinge has around 15 million, the CEO of Match Group — which owns Tinder, Hinge, and a slew of other apps — shared on LinkedIn. While daily active users and monthly active users are different metrics, Facebook Dating's numbers suggest that it stands among these titans. So, as any journalist would, I made an account to see what the hype was about, and the results were honestly surprising in a "I can't believe I spent my week on this" kind of way.

The Facebook Dating experience

First, the pros. Facebook Dating is not a standalone app. It's part of the Facebook app alongside other popular services like Marketplace and Reels. That makes it incredibly easy to create an account since you're already logged in, similar to how Meta launched Threads as an extension of Instagram.

Like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge, it also mirrors many of the same profile-building features. When setting up your profile, you can add a bio, answer prompts, select music that matches your vibe, and fill in your religious beliefs, work experience, education, and more. The most interesting tool is an AI-generated bio based on the info you've entered. I tested it, and it gave me: "Chicago transplant, gym rat, and trivia buff seeking a partner in crime." Honestly, not the worst bio I've ever had.

Why yes, that is me falling down a sand dune while visiting White Sands. Credit: Screenshot: Facebook / Chance Townsend

The standout feature of Facebook Dating is that there's no monetization of the experience at all. All filters are free to use, although there is a daily swipe limit of approximately 70-80 likes, and once you hit it, you have to wait until the next day to swipe again. It also helps that Meta's "family of apps" (Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp) generated over $162 billion in revenue in 2024, so perhaps there's no need to monetize these features like other apps do when the venture capital runs out. (Meta didn't respond to Mashable's request for comment before publication time.)

Curious about the 18 to 29 claim, I set my age range to that bracket within 0 to 5 miles of my area, which is a dense hub of several universities and thus a lot of young adults. Yet, my queue leans heavily toward the older end of the twenties rather than the younger. In fact, it's pretty slim pickings if you're 18 to 23 on the app (in my area, at least). As a 27-year-old man edging closer to 30, I'm not looking to date anyone younger than 24, anyway, but I was surprised given Facebook Dating's user stats.

Now, the cons. Facebook Dating offers dating preferences that you can set in your profile, including making them hard preferences, similar to Hinge. But they don't work.

Credit: Screenshot: Facebook / Chance Townsend

Even with my dating preferences set to prioritize profiles within 10 miles of me and an age range of 24 to 100, it's not uncommon to see potential matches who live nowhere near Chicago. I've seen profiles from Colombia, Quebec, deep in Georgia, and even a few hundred miles away in Wisconsin. In fact, while writing this sentence, I opened the app and my suggested match lives in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin — 130 miles from me. I'm unsure whether that's a glitchy app issue that struggles to find exact matches for me or simply a lack of active users.

There are users on Facebook Dating, and if you're over 40, it seems like the place to be. Between combing through Reddit threads and scrolling through the numerous profiles the app served up, it's pretty clear that the 35+ crowd shows up far more often than anyone in the 18 to 29 bracket. At the very least, those profiles popped up in my suggested matches much more consistently.

And statistically, it tracks. More than 57 percent of Facebook's entire user base is 35 or older as of June 2025, according to Statista, so it's no surprise that this demographic will also dominate the dating side. But based on the stats Meta sent Mashable earlier, being known as the go-to spot for over-40s doesn't seem to be the vibe the company is aiming for.

More annoyingly (and super embarrassingly), I received zero matches or likes in the almost two weeks I've had a profile open on Facebook Dating. I'm not exactly blaming the app for that, but as a somewhat average-looking 20-something (to be humble), I at least got matches on Raya. So maybe it's a case of effort in, effort out, since my profile is just the standard six photos and my AI bio, along with the usual fillers like work, education, and religious beliefs.

All in all, it was a very uneventful experience. From my experience with Facebook Dating, as someone in the target age range of 18 to 29, this was not the dating app for me. It's a great place for older online daters, which, you know, is good for them. That makes me happy, but glitchy filters do not. Guess I'll see what's happening on Feeld.

As one of Mashable’s sex toy and dating app experts, I have the inside scoop on the news and deals way before they hit the masses. I also get exclusive access to products before they launch (you should see my office closet — it’s nothing but boxes and boxes of sex toys). I truly love what I do as a service journalist, and if there’s one thing I’m passionate about, it’s making sure our readers have the right tools and info they need to get all the pleasure and self-love they deserve.

I’ve also been covering Black Friday sales since 2022, and I have a pretty good grasp of the genuine sex toy deals versus inflated price tags masquerading as deals. (Even deals like to role play!) Now that holiday sales are starting to drop (they literally get earlier and earlier every year), I’m starting the season off with a comprehensive guide to the best Black Friday sex toy deals.

In this guide, you’ll find all the sex toy deals I’d recommend to friends. Spoiler: Most of these deals aren’t at Amazon, but that’s OK! While Amazon does have some worthwhile deals, its selection of sexual wellness products is limited compared to specialized retailers, and most items are sold by sketchy third-party sellers. The real deals come directly from the manufacturers themselves or from reputable retailers who specialize in sexual wellness products.

With all that said, there’s no way this is the final list. We haven’t even seen the actual Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales yet, so be sure to check back frequently for updates as more deals become available.

Lovers Loyal 5.5in Dildo

I have endometriosis and I struggle with pelvic pain, so I’m not always down for penetration, but when I am, my go-to dildo is the Lovers Loyal 5.5in Dildo. This little guy is super soft (like, unbelievably soft) and flexible, and it has a suction cup base so you can stick it to the floor, the side of a bathtub/shower, a chair, your headboard, or wherever else it’s safe to do so. (I wouldn’t stick it to a mirror, even though that does sound like a good idea in theory.) The suction cup base also makes for a great handle if you don’t actually want to stick it to anything, but the option’s there if you want it.

It’s 5.5 inches long and 1.48 inches in diameter, and it’s harness-compatible. You’ll want to use lube with this toy, but stick to water-based lubes — other types, like silicone and oil, can break down the material over time. I know the actual phallic look can be a turn-off (I wasn’t a fan of realistic toys until I met this one), but I assure you it's incredibly comfortable and versatile. You can use it for anal, too!

For Black Friday, Lovers is offering 20% off all purchases with the code JUST4U. This code is valid through Nov. 30. That means, you can get this dildo for $38.40 (that’s a $9.60 discount).

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Credit: Lovers

Lovers Loyal 5.5in Dildo

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Bellesa G-Stroking Rabbit

I’m waiting with bated breath for Bellesa Boutique's 12 Day Advent Calendar to drop (it’s currently out of stock, but it’s totally worth the wait — I tried it out last year and will be praising it until I find a better alternative). But, right now, you can get up to 80% off select Bellesa toys, including the G-Stroking Rabbit, which is perfect for anyone who loves deep, G-spot stimulation paired with external clitoral vibration.

This dual-action vibrator is only $79 with the discount (or you can do four interest-free payments of $21 with Klarna). At this price, I’d definitely recommend snatching it up before it’s gone. (A handful of toys are already sold out!) The overall aesthetic of Bellesa toys is pretty basic, but their functionality and effectiveness in the orgasm department are unmatched.

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LELO Smart Wand 2 Medium

This is the first wand vibrator I ever fell in love with: the LELO Smart Wand 2 Medium. It's the perfect size and shape (especially if you have wrist limitations or pain) for targeted clitoral stimulation. The vibrations are strong, rumbly, and if set correctly, can get you from 0 to orgasm in seconds. Right now, you can get the LELO Smart Wand 2 at the LELO site for $126.75. It’s also on sale at Lovers with code LELO20, but the better deal is at LELO. You’re saving $42.25, and you’ll get a free Sona 2 Travel if you spend $62.26 more (so, all you’d need to do is add another LELO product or accessory to your cart to qualify for the free gift).

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Credit: LELO

LELO Smart Wand 2 Medium

$126.75 at LELO
$169 Save $42.25

 

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LELO Enigma Wave

If you’re interested in adding a second toy to your cart so you can get the Sona 2 Travel for free, I’d recommend the LELO Enigma Wave (but only if you’re into intense clitoral and G-spot stimulation). This toy came out in 2023, and fair warning, it is intense. So, if you prefer gentler sensations, this might not be the best option for you. I had to move it around a bit to get the perfect angle, but once I found it, the combo of G-spot and clitoral stimulation sent me into orgasmic bliss. It also helps that it's totally hands-free once you get it in position. (Bonus: Your partner will love watching you converse uncontrollably.)

The difference between this toy and other dual-stimulation toys is that it features a proprietary WaveMotion technology and three synchronized motors to mimic that come-hither motion while also providing intense external clitoral stimulation. I’d definitely recommend using lube with this toy or getting revved up before putting it inside of you. With the discount, you can get the Enigma Wave for $201.75 directly from LELO. Again, it’s also 20% off at Lovers, but LELO currently has the better deal.

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Credit: LELO

LELO Enigma Wave

$201.75 at LELO
$269 Save $67.25

 

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Tracy’s Dog OG Sucking Vibrator

If you want a similar clitoral suction experience at a more accessible price point, I can’t recommend Tracy’s Dog OG Sucking Vibrator enough. If you can get past the weird name, you’ll see that this little vibe can hold its own compared to more expensive models, and it’s currently 40% off. (You can also find Tracy’s Dog at Amazon, but not all of the brand’s products can be found there.)

This vibrator is famous, and if you haven’t heard of it, you definitely need to go and read this review. It basically broke the internet in 2019 thanks to its unbeatable clitoral suction technology. The viral reviewer was so into this toy that she said her “soul left” her body and “God himself” spoke to her. “I shook for a good five minutes; I couldn’t get up off the bed if I even wanted to,” she wrote. While not everyone will have this out-of-body (and maybe out-of-mind) experience, I can truthfully say this little toy has exceeded my expectations, especially for an under-$50 toy. At the time of writing, Tracy’s Dog OG Sucking Vibrator is available for $29.99 at the Tracy’s Dog website.

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Credit: Tracy's Dog

Tracy's Dog OG Sucking Vibrator

$29.99 at Tracy's Dog
$49.99 Save $20.00

 

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More Black Friday deals on Tracy's Dog toys

At Amazon specifically, virtually the entire Tracy's Doc toy lineup is discounted by at least 10% right now. You can also find special coupons, free toys, and other promotions. So, if you're a Prime member, head ot Amazon to shop Tracy's Dog Black Friday discounts.

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Credit: Tracy's Dog

Tracy's Dog Flexible Rabbit Vibrator with Suction

$35.99 at Amazon
$43.99 Save $8

 

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Credit: Tracy's Dog

Tracy's Dog Powerful G Spot Vibrato

$29.69 at Amazon

30% off with qualifying purchase

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FemmeFunn Thruster Rabbit

If you have an afternoon or evening to yourself and you want to get completely wrecked, the FemmeFunn Thruster Rabbit is my go-to. This is for those days/nights when you have 0 plans. (Big Samantha Jones vibes here.) The FemmeFunn Thruster Rabbit, fortunately, is available in purple in addition to its flesh tones (I have the dark purple one, which is the brand's signature color), and it comes with a remote. The suction cup base makes it easy to stick to just about any flat surface. (Place a pillow or something soft where your knees are going to go if you plan on getting on all fours, which I totally recommend trying at least once).

Unlike other thrusters on the market, the FemmeFunn Thruster Rabbit is designed to keep going even when your muscles are contracting — this means it won’t stall out at the good part. And, thanks to the remote, you can adjust the settings while you’re playing without having to reach down to fumble with the buttons.

From Nov. 18 (tomorrow) to Nov. 27, you can get this toy for 15% off. OR, you can buy two toys for 20% off, or three toys for 30% off. If you wait until Nov. 28, you can get 30% off sitewide, so it really just depends on how willing you are to wait after I just gave you that juicy rundown.

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Credit: FemmeFunn

FemmeFunn Thruster Rabbit

$111.99 at FemmeFunn
$159.99 Save $48.00

The price below shows the 30% discount.

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More Black Friday sex toy deals

Here’s a lightning round of all the other sitewide and product-specific sales to have on your radar, straight from my inbox.

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Credit: Babeland

Babeland

The retailer is running an early offer for up to 50% off air pleasure and suction toys from Nov. 17-23. But the real sale is up to 69% off sitewide from Nov. 26 to Dec. 2.

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Credit: b-Vibe

b-Vibe

The leading anal play brand is offering 40% off sitewide from Nov. 18 to Dec. 2. This also includes "up to 80% off selected items," so it's a great time to shop.

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Credit: biird

biird

From Nov. 21 to Dec. 1, Biird is offering up to 50% off on its official site and Amazon store. Purchases on the Biird website also get a free gift (a Vulvii necklace for $75+ or an Evii Green for $159+).

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Credit: Good Vibes

Good Vibes

This retailer is offering up to 50% off G-spot vibes from Nov. 17-23. The bigger sale — up to 50% off sitewide — runs from Nov. 26 to Dec. 2.

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Credit: Hot Octopuss

Hot Octopuss

Get up to 60% off for bestsellers like the Pulse Queen, Pulse Solo, and Pulse Duo.

Shop Now

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Credit: Je Joue

Je Joue

Je Joue For all of November, Je Joue has up to 50% off some of its most popular products. This includes 50% off the Amour Pink, Duet Lilac, all Onyx butt-plugs, Naughty & Nice Gift Boxes, and G-Spot Favourites (Uma and Juno), and 15% off fan favorites like the Mimi & Mimi Soft and the new ILY Collection.

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Kiiroo

This sale is wild. From Nov. 18 to Dec. 4, their bestsellers are on sale, with some getting massive discounts. The Titan stroker is 70% off, dropping from $149 to just $45.

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Credit: Le Wand

Le Wand

The premium wand brand is having two sales. First, from Nov. 18-24, get 40% off all wands. Then, from Nov. 25 to Dec. 2, the sale expands to 40% off sitewide, plus up to 80% off select items.

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Pornhub's parent company, Aylo, has sent letters to major tech platforms urging them to enable device-level age verification, according to WIRED.

Anthony Penhale, chief legal officer for Aylo (which also owns RedTube and YouPorn), sent letters to Apple, Google, and Microsoft saying in all of them that "we have found site-based age assurance approaches to be fundamentally flawed and counterproductive."

Site-based age verification methods have "failed to achieve their primary objective: protecting minors from accessing age-inappropriate material online," the letters reportedly state.

This comes soon after the latest study, which suggests that U.S. age verification laws indeed fail in their objective, as well as impede adults' right to free speech.

"Site-based age verification" has been enacted in half of the United States and other countries, including the UK, Italy, and France. These age verification laws typically require inputting personal data, such as a government-issued ID or a facial scan, on sites with explicit content beyond a "yes or no" checkbox to ensure a visitor is over 18. (Though non-explicit websites like YouTube have also started implementing age verification.)

For years, Pornhub and free speech experts have advocated for device-level age verification instead, meaning blocks and filters on individual phones, tablets, or computers.

Mike Stabile, director of public affairs at the Free Speech Coalition, previously told Mashable that he recommended device-level filters that block all websites registered as RTA, or "Restricted to Adults." "It signals to filters, whether it's your Apple filter or Net Nanny or something like that, that this site should be blocked," he explained.

In press releases regarding age verification legislation, Aylo has also advocated for device-level filters as the solution to keep minors off its and other adult websites. Now, they're pleading with tech giants to do the same.

"We strongly advocate for device-based age assurance where users' age is determined once on the device, and the age range can be used to create an age signal sent over an API [application programming interface] to websites," each letter states. Aylo requested that Apple, Google, and Microsoft extend this device-based approach to web platforms.

Microsoft declined to comment to Mashable.

An Apple spokesperson linked to a Newsroom update from June 2025, which states that kids aged 13 to 17 will now have similar age-appropriate protections on Apple devices as those under 13 already do under Child Accounts, regardless of whether the teen's account was set up as a Child Account or a standard Apple Account. The protections include web content filters.

The Apple spokesperson also linked to a child online safety white paper from February 2025, which states that, "The right place to address the dangers of age-restricted content online is the limited set of websites and apps that host that kind of content."

Google told Mashable that it's "committed to protecting kids online, including by developing and deploying new age assurance tools like our Credential Manager API that can be used by websites. We don't allow adult entertainment apps on Google Play, and certain high-risk services like Aylo will always need to invest in specific tools to meet their own legal and responsibility obligations."

Adult platform OnlyFans will start conducting criminal background checks for U.S. creators, its CEO, Keily Blair, recently shared on LinkedIn. The AI-powered screener, however, has proved to be controversial.

Creators who want to upload on OnlyFans must already provide multiple forms of personal identification to be able to post on the site, including a government ID and banking information. Now, performers in the U.S. will also have to undergo a criminal background check through the screening provider Checkr.

"Checkr, Inc. helps OnlyFans to prevent people who have a criminal conviction, which may impact our community's safety, from signing up as a Creator on OnlyFans," Blair posted on LinkedIn.

On its website, Checkr states that 99 percent of its background checks are automated after data retrieval, with human quality assurance.

The screening service, which has also been used by "gig economy" companies Uber and DoorDash, has been the subject of dozens of lawsuits between 2015 and 2020, according to an archived 2020 Protocol article. These lawsuits were filed under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which regulates background checks (and credit reports), and alleged that Checkr made mistakes such as misreporting crimes and flagging criminal activity too old to report according to the FCRA.

In 2022, Checkr was named in another lawsuit, this one claiming it and Uber failed to properly screen drivers who were using stolen identities. In 2023, another lawsuit emerged, claiming that Checkr's "quick checks" had failed to uncover a DoorDash driver's criminal history.

OnlyFans and Checkr haven't responded to Mashable's request for comment.

Last month, Pornhub also announced it would establish criminal background checks for current and new content partners (studios, not individual creators).

Blair of OnlyFans and Pornhub both stated this move was to further safety on their platforms. It also comes at a time when the porn industry faces increased legislative scrutiny in the U.S. and abroad, with age-verification laws, which typically require robust age checks to keep minors off their platforms (despite studies saying that age verification doesn't work).

A platform that promises "spicy AI chatting" left nearly two million images and videos, many of them showing private citizens, exposed to the public, 404 Media reported.

Secret Desires, an erotic chatbot and AI image generator, left cloud storage containers of photos, women's names, and other personal information like workplaces and universities, vulnerable, according to 404 Media.

This "massive leak" is the latest case of people using generative AI tools to turn innocent photos into nonconsensual explicit deepfakes.

Some of the photos and videos were taken from real influencers, public figures, and non-famous women. The latter category includes Snapchat screenshots and at least one yearbook photo. Some of the exposed media included user-generated AI images, such as those created with a now-defunct "faceswap" feature, which Secret Desires removed earlier this year.

Like Character.AI or Replika, Secret Desires allows users to create AI personas and chat with them. While pornographic content isn't allowed on Character.AI (and is only allowed for certain Replika users), Secret Desires says it "provides limitless intimacy and connection" on its Quick Start Guide.

As 404 Media found, the AI-generated media found in the vulnerable storage containers were mostly explicit. Some of the file names included terms like "17-year-old."

The company didn't respond to 404 Media's request for comment, but the files became inaccessible around an hour after the publication reached out.

For years, women and girls have been victims of explicit deepfakes, which are AI-generated content. Many deepfakes are women's likenesses "faceswapped" onto pornographic videos. This applies to celebrities like Taylor Swift as well as women who are not famous. This also happens to girls, creating online child sex abuse material.

This year, Congress passed the Take It Down Act to combat deepfake images. The law proved controversial, as several free speech and advocacy groups claim that it can be weaponized against consensual explicit material or political speech.

Dating in 2025 isn't for the faint of heart, especially if you're a young adult. Between growing up online and coming of age during COVID lockdowns, Gen Z has a distinct experience finding love compared to any other generation.

The popular dating app Hinge has distilled some of this experience in the app's latest D.A.T.E. (Data, Advice, Trends, and Expertise) Report called Closing the Communication Gap, or the disconnect between the desire for deep conversations young daters have versus their hesitance to initiate them.

For this report, the app's research team, Hinge Labs, surveyed around 30,000 Hinge users globally this year.

Gen Z struggles to open up

Gen Z daters are 36 percent more hesitant than their millennial counterparts to initiate a deep conversation on the first date — meaning, going beyond small talk.

This aligns with previous research from Hinge. In 2024, Hinge found that Gen Z singles were 47 percent more likely to say the pandemic made them nervous to talk to new people, compared to millennials, and 25 percent more likely to say the pandemic made them less confident on a first date.

Now, at the near-end of 2025, 35 percent of all Hinge daters across genders and sexualities say they're holding back from having deeper conversations because they don't know how to start.

There's also a "communication gap" between women and men, specifically. Forty-two percent of heterosexual Gen Z women feel like the men they date don't want to have deep conversations on the first few dates, but 65 percent of heterosexual Gen Z men say they do.

Early dating often locks people into invisible scripts — like who is "passive" and who is "active," Hinge's love and connection expert, Moe Ari Brown, said in the report. "Falling into these kinds of roles can quietly sabotage the connection because, while habits create routines, they can also create monotony or imbalance."

Zooming out, 43 percent of Gen Z women in general wait for the other person to initiate deep conversations, partly because they assume men don't want to have them, and 48 percent of Gen Z men hold back from emotional intimacy because they don't want to seem "too much." Other worries are the fear of rejection and being judged.

This also tracks with what Hinge found last year: 95 percent of Gen Z daters worry about rejection, and 56 percent said that worry held them back from pursuing a potential relationship.

Another reason Gen Z is holding back is social media. Half of Gen Z men, 45 percent of Gen Z women, and 39 percent of nonbinary Gen Z daters said that social media has made them more hesitant to be emotionally open, according to the 2025 report.

In a time where nearly every move one makes is posted online (if not every single move), the fear of being cringe is strong. But we have to embrace it to find love. As Hinge's lead relationship scientist, Logan Ury, said in the new report, "authentic connection requires vulnerability and imperfection."

...while also using AI tools to date

Yet, it could be easier than ever to outsource vulnerability with AI, which Gen Z daters are turning to. From flirting to wedding planning, young adults are using AI tools like ChatGPT to shape their relationship experiences.

Of the Gen Z men who turn to AI for dating, over half (58 percent) use it to initiate conversations, and exactly half use it to generate conversation responses. Forty percent of Gen Z women who use AI do so to start chatting, and 57 percent use it for responding to conversations as well.

Meanwhile, only 34 percent of Hinge daters overall are comfortable or neutral about using AI to write messages.

As difficult as it is, you might want to exit out of ChatGPT in order to find your partner in 2026. You're not alone if you're looking for greater emotional intimacy, though: 84 percent of Gen Z Hinge daters want to find new ways to build deeper connections with the people they're dating.

Bad news for anyone trying to get some action on Grindr today — the app is down due to a widespread Cloudflare outage. The internet service posted on Tuesday morning that it was investigating an issue with its global network.

The top of Grindr's status page states that the team began investigating an issue at 8:52 ET, and confirmed minutes later that it was due to Cloudflare.

It gets worse: another gay dating app, Sniffies, is down too, according to Downdetector. (Disclosure: Downdetector is owned by Ziff Davis, which also owns Mashable).

Credit: Screenshot: Downdetector

Fellow gay dating apps SCRUFF and JACK'D also appear to be having errors. Both are run by Amazon Web Services.

If there's one solace to those looking for a hookup, it's that a slew of other websites, including X and Uber, are down as well.

People have had a fascination with famous people for eons — and in the age of the internet, it's only increased. Influencers, often online content creators, have made both the definition of "celebrity" and our relationships with them fuzzy. 

While it may seem like influencers are followers' friends due to how they interact with them online, this more than likely isn't the case. Instead, these relationships are parasocial — one-sided. But what are parasocial relationships exactly, and are they healthy?

What is a parasocial relationship?

Parasocial relationships are one-sided relationships, typically with an everyday individual and a celebrity or fictional character, said assistant professor of communication studies at Colorado State University, Natalie Pennington. 

According to chief strategy officer at media tech company IMGN Media Noah Mallin, parasocial relationships are an assumed intimacy audience members feel even though they don't have an actual relationship with that person.

These relationships existed long before the internet — thousands of years ago. Researchers say ancient people had parasocial relationships with pharaohs and deities, for example. 

In the 20th century, early research on parasocial relationships dissected those of people and soap opera characters and other fictional TV characters. "People would watch TV shows and become really invested in, and feel like they had a relationship with…some of the leads on the shows," said Pennington. "So even though they may never meet, they were like, 'This person is my friend. I know them.'"

As media and technology has evolved, so have parasocial relationships. With the rise of the internet and social media in the past few decades, celebrities have disclosed more information about themselves online, allowing fans more insight. This previously-impossible-to-know knowledge has made these relationships seem real, as fans are learning more about the celebrity. It's still one-sided, however, as the celebrity may have no idea who the fan is. 

Examples of parasocial relationships

In a study on fan-celebrity interaction on Twitter Pennington published in 2016 with professor Jeffrey A. Hall and researcher Alex Hutchinson, the authors discussed the "illusion of closeness" social media interaction gives to fans when it comes to celebrity interaction. A celebrity "like" or retweet can not only boost one's own social status, but it's a perceived level of intimacy with the celeb.

Even the definition of "celebrity" is fuzzy these days due to the rise of social media and particularly influencers, who've blurred the parasocial lines even more because of increased interaction and the perception that an influencer is just a "normal person" like yourself. 

Because of engagement, social media blurs the line of parasocial relationships. Since that study, it's only increased — especially with TikTok, Pennington noted. Referring to the stitch feature of combining videos, she said, "TikTok with stitching, for example…it blurs the line on parasocial because someone may actually respond to you and then you can feel even more connected."

The rise of YouTube vlogging had a hand in modern parasocial relationships, said Mallin. Vloggers speak directly to camera (something not often done in previous forms of media) about specific personal issues they're dealing with, as if they're speaking to a friend. Now it's typical for an influencer to look directly at you during a video. There's a perceived level of authenticity there, even if a lot of work went into a video behind the scenes. 

Not only are influencers looking at you, but they're also interacting — sometimes in real time. "It feels like you've got more ability to access and interact," said Mallin. "A good creator will read the comments, and comment back."

Commenting back and forth can feel like you're having a conversation with an influencer (even if it's their team and not them responding). This helps foster the sense of "this is a real person," said Mallin, "but that can also foster the sense of, 'not only is this a real person, but we actually have a relationship with each other,'" even though you don't. 

"Again, [this is] still not a two sided relationship in most cases," Pennington said. "But because there's that extra level of interaction or potential for [interaction], it can strengthen that tie for someone."

How do parasocial relationships form and end?

Parasocial relationships are born out of parasocial interaction, or PSI. PSI is the process of engaging with a celebrity or influencer. You watch their content, perhaps even reach out to them. It's likely you relate to them in some way; maybe their identity aligns with yours, or maybe you share similar attitudes. 

Just as possible as it is for parasocial relationships to form, it's also possible for them to end. The most morbid of cases is when the public figure dies, but that's not the only way. 

One way is, as Mallin said, "the bubble has burst." This is especially the case of influencers when they reach a certain level of notoriety where they don't "feel real" anymore. Perhaps their follow count is in the millions, and they've entered the mainstream. "Once you get the sense that they're not really talking to just you anymore…it can start to feel like less of a relationship," said Mallin.

This can also be the case if an influencer starts doing too many sponsorships that feel misaligned with who they are (or, at least, who the fan believe them to be). "It starts to feel less authentic," said Mallin.

Or, maybe the influencer started in one niche that resonated with you and then they evolved and moved on. In that way, the end of a parasocial relationship can feel like a friendship that drifted apart. 

This doesn't happen with all fans, but parasocial relationships can fizzle when the illusion of intimacy is somehow broken. 

Are parasocial relationships healthy?

The simple answer is yes — but like most things, it's best in moderation. 

In the United States, people are pretty lonely, and the pandemic worsened the "loneliness epidemic." People have fewer close friends now than they did decades ago. At the same time, Pennington said, there's an innate human need to belong and thus a need for connection, and when we don't have that we'll seek it out. Humans evolved these needs over millions of years, because we needed to be part of groups in order to survive. While this isn't necessarily the case anymore, we're still social creatures who thrive with others.

So, it makes sense that people seek connection online and through celebrities and influencers. As long as they're not the only relationships in your life, parasocial relationships can be totally fine. You may get a "boost" of good-connection feelings — a hit of the feel-good chemical dopamine — when you engage with your favorite online personality, and that's a positive.

But if that's the only way you're connecting — or if you think your parasocial relationship is actually two-sided — that's when they can get problematic.

"We need people in our life that we actively talk to," Pennington said, "to help our wellbeing, whether that be loneliness, self esteem, belonging, connection, all that stuff."

Pennington continued, "There's nothing wrong with enjoying the content of a creator in any capacity and appreciating the work they do with the in-the-moment joy that that brings you." It's not a good idea to set expectations with the celebrity, however. "It's okay to reach out to tweet at and say 'hi,' but not anticipate or expect a response," Pennington said. 

Further, Mallin said, parasocial relationships can cross the line into being toxic, especially if the influencer/celebrity is of a marginalized identity. "Parasocial relationships can feel fairly benign," he said, "but for some groups that sometimes can be a little bit more sinister." 

During the worst of the pandemic, for example, influencers spoke out about increased harassment. Abuse can escalate from online to offline, such as Twitch "fans" stalking streamers. In these ways, the blurred line of interaction can be detrimental. 

When interacting with an influencer/celebrity, it's important to remember the relationship is indeed one-sided. It's okay to love a famous person — but keep your emotional and physical distance.

This article was first published in 2022 and republished in 2025.

As one of Mashable’s sex toy and dating app experts, I have the inside scoop on the news and deals way before they hit the masses. I also get exclusive access to products before they launch (you should see my office closet — it’s nothing but boxes and boxes of sex toys). I truly love what I do as a service journalist, and if there’s one thing I’m passionate about, it’s making sure our readers have the right tools and info they need to get all the pleasure and self-love they deserve.

I’ve also been covering Black Friday sales since 2022, and I have a pretty good grasp of the genuine sex toy deals versus inflated price tags masquerading as deals. (Even deals like to role play!) Now that holiday sales are starting to drop (they literally get earlier and earlier every year), I’m starting the season off with a comprehensive guide to the best early Black Friday sex toy deals.

In this guide, you’ll find all the sex toy deals I’d recommend to friends. Spoiler: Most of these deals aren’t at Amazon, but that’s OK! While Amazon does have some worthwhile deals, its selection of sexual wellness products is limited compared to specialized retailers, and most items are sold by sketchy third-party sellers. The real deals come directly from the manufacturers themselves or from reputable retailers who specialize in sexual wellness products.

With all that said, there’s no way this is the final list. We haven’t even seen the actual Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales yet, so be sure to check back frequently for updates as more deals become available.

Lovers Loyal 5.5in Dildo

I have endometriosis and I struggle with pelvic pain, so I’m not always down for penetration, but when I am, my go-to dildo is the Lovers Loyal 5.5in Dildo. This little guy is super soft (like, unbelievably soft) and flexible, and it has a suction cup base so you can stick it to the floor, the side of a bathtub/shower, a chair, your headboard, or wherever else it’s safe to do so. (I wouldn’t stick it to a mirror, even though that does sound like a good idea in theory.) The suction cup base also makes for a great handle if you don’t actually want to stick it to anything, but the option’s there if you want it.

It’s 5.5 inches long and 1.48 inches in diameter, and it’s harness-compatible. You’ll want to use lube with this toy, but stick to water-based lubes — other types, like silicone and oil, can break down the material over time. I know the actual phallic look can be a turn-off (I wasn’t a fan of realistic toys until I met this one), but I assure you it's incredibly comfortable and versatile. You can use it for anal, too!

For Black Friday, Lovers is offering 20% off all purchases with the code JUST4U. This code is valid through Nov. 30. That means, you can get this dildo for $38.40 (that’s a $9.60 discount).

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Credit: Lovers

Lovers Loyal 5.5in Dildo

$38.40 at Lovers
$48 Save $9.60

Use the code JUST4U to get this deal!

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Bellesa G-Stroking Rabbit

I’m waiting with bated breath for Bellesa Boutique's 12 Day Advent Calendar to drop (it’s currently out of stock, but it’s totally worth the wait — I tried it out last year and will be praising it until I find a better alternative). But, right now, you can get up to 80% off select Bellesa toys, including the G-Stroking Rabbit, which is perfect for anyone who loves deep, G-spot stimulation paired with external clitoral vibration.

This dual-action vibrator is only $79 with the discount (or you can do four interest-free payments of $21 with Klarna). At this price, I’d definitely recommend snatching it up before it’s gone. (A handful of toys are already sold out!) The overall aesthetic of Bellesa toys is pretty basic, but their functionality and effectiveness in the orgasm department are unmatched.

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Credit: Bellesa Boutique

Bellesa Boutique G-Stroking Rabbit

$79 at Bellesa Boutique
$119 Save $40

 

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LELO Smart Wand 2 Medium

This is the first wand vibrator I ever fell in love with: the LELO Smart Wand 2 Medium. It's the perfect size and shape (especially if you have wrist limitations or pain) for targeted clitoral stimulation. The vibrations are strong, rumbly, and if set correctly, can get you from 0 to orgasm in seconds. Right now, you can get the LELO Smart Wand 2 at the LELO site for $126.75. It’s also on sale at Lovers with code LELO20, but the better deal is at LELO. You’re saving $42.25, and you’ll get a free Sona 2 Travel if you spend $62.26 more (so, all you’d need to do is add another LELO product or accessory to your cart to qualify for the free gift).

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Credit: LELO

LELO Smart Wand 2 Medium

$126.75 at LELO
$169 Save $42.25

 

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LELO Enigma Wave

If you’re interested in adding a second toy to your cart so you can get the Sona 2 Travel for free, I’d recommend the LELO Enigma Wave (but only if you’re into intense clitoral and G-spot stimulation). This toy came out in 2023, and fair warning, it is intense. So, if you prefer gentler sensations, this might not be the best option for you. I had to move it around a bit to get the perfect angle, but once I found it, the combo of G-spot and clitoral stimulation sent me into orgasmic bliss. It also helps that it's totally hands-free once you get it in position. (Bonus: Your partner will love watching you converse uncontrollably.)

The difference between this toy and other dual-stimulation toys is that it features a proprietary WaveMotion technology and three synchronized motors to mimic that come-hither motion while also providing intense external clitoral stimulation. I’d definitely recommend using lube with this toy or getting revved up before putting it inside of you. With the discount, you can get the Enigma Wave for $201.75 directly from LELO. Again, it’s also 20% off at Lovers, but LELO currently has the better deal.

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Credit: LELO

LELO Enigma Wave

$201.75 at LELO
$269 Save $67.25

 

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Tracy’s Dog OG Sucking Vibrator

If you want a similar clitoral suction experience at a more accessible price point, I can’t recommend Tracy’s Dog OG Sucking Vibrator enough. If you can get past the weird name, you’ll see that this little vibe can hold its own compared to more expensive models, and it’s currently 40% off. (You can also find Tracy’s Dog at Amazon, but not all of the brand’s products can be found there.)

This vibrator is famous, and if you haven’t heard of it, you definitely need to go and read this review. It basically broke the internet in 2019 thanks to its unbeatable clitoral suction technology. The viral reviewer was so into this toy that she said her “soul left” her body and “God himself” spoke to her. “I shook for a good five minutes; I couldn’t get up off the bed if I even wanted to,” she wrote. While not everyone will have this out-of-body (and maybe out-of-mind) experience, I can truthfully say this little toy has exceeded my expectations, especially for an under-$50 toy. At the time of writing, Tracy’s Dog OG Sucking Vibrator is available for $29.99 at the Tracy’s Dog website.

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Credit: Tracy's Dog

Tracy's Dog OG Sucking Vibrator

$29.99 at Tracy's Dog
$49.99 Save $20.00

 

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More Black Friday deals on Tracy's Dog toys

At Amazon specifically, virtually the entire Tracy's Doc toy lineup is discounted by at least 10% right now. You can also find special coupons, free toys, and other promotions. So, if you're a Prime member, head ot Amazon to shop Tracy's Dog early Black Friday discounts.

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Credit: Tracy's Dog

Tracy's Dog Flexible Rabbit Vibrator with Suction

$35.99 at Amazon
$43.99 Save $8

 

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Credit: Tracy's Dog

Tracy's Dog Powerful G Spot Vibrato

$29.69 at Amazon

30% off with qualifying purchase

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FemmeFunn Thruster Rabbit

If you have an afternoon or evening to yourself and you want to get completely wrecked, the FemmeFunn Thruster Rabbit is my go-to. This is for those days/nights when you have 0 plans. (Big Samantha Jones vibes here.) The FemmeFunn Thruster Rabbit, fortunately, is available in purple in addition to its flesh tones (I have the dark purple one, which is the brand's signature color), and it comes with a remote. The suction cup base makes it easy to stick to just about any flat surface. (Place a pillow or something soft where your knees are going to go if you plan on getting on all fours, which I totally recommend trying at least once).

Unlike other thrusters on the market, the FemmeFunn Thruster Rabbit is designed to keep going even when your muscles are contracting — this means it won’t stall out at the good part. And, thanks to the remote, you can adjust the settings while you’re playing without having to reach down to fumble with the buttons.

From Nov. 18 (tomorrow) to Nov. 27, you can get this toy for 15% off. OR, you can buy two toys for 20% off, or three toys for 30% off. If you wait until Nov. 28, you can get 30% off sitewide, so it really just depends on how willing you are to wait after I just gave you that juicy rundown.

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Credit: FemmeFunn

FemmeFunn Thruster Rabbit

$111.99 at FemmeFunn
$159.99 Save $48.00

The price below shows the 30% discount.

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More Black Friday sex toy deals

Here’s a lightning round of all the other sitewide and product-specific sales to have on your radar, straight from my inbox.

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Credit: Babeland

Babeland

The retailer is running an early offer for up to 50% off air pleasure and suction toys from Nov. 17-23. But the real sale is up to 69% off sitewide from Nov. 26 to Dec. 2.

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Credit: b-Vibe

b-Vibe

The leading anal play brand is offering 40% off sitewide from Nov. 18 to Dec. 2. This also includes "up to 80% off selected items," so it's a great time to shop.

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Credit: biird

biird

From Nov. 21 to Dec. 1, Biird is offering up to 50% off on its official site and Amazon store. Purchases on the Biird website also get a free gift (a Vulvii necklace for $75+ or an Evii Green for $159+).

Shop Now

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Credit: Good Vibes

Good Vibes

This retailer is offering up to 50% off G-spot vibes from Nov. 17-23. The bigger sale — up to 50% off sitewide — runs from Nov. 26 to Dec. 2.

Shop Now

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Credit: Hot Octopuss

Hot Octopuss

Get up to 60% off for bestsellers like the Pulse Queen, Pulse Solo, and Pulse Duo.

Shop Now

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Credit: Je Joue

Je Joue

Je Joue For all of November, Je Joue has up to 50% off some of its most popular products. This includes 50% off the Amour Pink, Duet Lilac, all Onyx butt-plugs, Naughty & Nice Gift Boxes, and G-Spot Favourites (Uma and Juno), and 15% off fan favorites like the Mimi & Mimi Soft and the new ILY Collection.

Shop Now

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Credit: Kiiroo

Kiiroo

This sale is wild. From Nov. 18 to Dec. 4, their bestsellers are on sale, with some getting massive discounts. The Titan stroker is 70% off, dropping from $149 to just $45.

Shop Now

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Credit: Le Wand

Le Wand

The premium wand brand is having two sales. First, from Nov. 18-24, get 40% off all wands. Then, from Nov. 25 to Dec. 2, the sale expands to 40% off sitewide, plus up to 80% off select items.

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Back in March, a working paper from researchers at NYU and other universities suggested that age-verification laws are ineffective. Now, a new analysis not only supports the same finding but also suggests that these laws may impose a burden on adults' First Amendment rights.

The new study, conducted by the public policy nonprofit the Phoenix Center, finds that these laws should fail a constitutional cost-benefit test. Meaning, if the laws are ineffective, then the cost to adults' constitutional rights to view legal content likely outweighs the benefit of preventing minors from seeing it.

Age-verification laws in the United States and beyond typically require websites that host a decent amount of explicit content to verify visitors' ages with more than a "yes or no" checkbox — such as with their government ID or a facial recognition scan. But, especially with the onset of the United Kingdom's age-verification law over the summer, some non-explicit platforms like YouTube are starting to implement age checks as well.

Experts have long told Mashable that these laws won't work for their intended purpose of keeping minors off pornographic websites. Software like VPNs can circumvent them, and users can simply visit websites that don't comply with the laws. There are also privacy and security concerns associated with these laws, such as the inability to browse legal content anonymously and inputting personal data into a third-party system that may be vulnerable to hacking.

Still, lawmakers have introduced and passed age verification laws in many states and countries. And since the initial release of the working paper in March this year, the Supreme Court has deemed age verification laws constitutional, despite concerns that they quell free speech and thus infringe on the First Amendment.

Costs and benefits of age-verification

The Phoenix Center's cost-benefit analysis is important due to SCOTUS's recent ruling. In June, the majority of the court decided that Texas's age-verification law was subject to the "intermediate scrutiny" standard. As the study outlines, the Supreme Court held that "Texas's age-verification law served an important government interest and that age-verification was substantially related to achieving that purpose."

Phoenix Center's chief economist, Dr. George S. Ford, conducted the study and reasoned that age-verification laws should deter substantially more minors than adults in order for this standard to hold up.

He used Google Trends data before and after states implemented their laws and/or Pornhub blocked itself in these states. He found spikes in searches for "VPN" (47 percent increase in the week Pornhub pulled out of the state, sustained for around 20 weeks) and "free porn" (30 percent increase without a significant decrease back down).

And while Google doesn't break down whether it's an adult or a minor searching, other research has found that adolescents aged 13-18 are likely to know how to use VPNs or can easily adopt them. This suggests that users, including minors, simply go around the laws.

"The evidence suggests a regulatory regime where the intended targets — tech-savvy minors — can easily bypass restrictions while adults exercising constitutional rights bear the primary costs," Ford stated in the press release.

In the study, Ford also laid out cybersecurity risks of using free VPNs, such as increased vulnerability to ransomware incidents, IP leaks, and third-party tracking.

While more research has to be done, Ford wrote in the study that the effectiveness of age verification laws at protecting minors is "questionable," both because knowledgeable teens can find ways to circumvent them and because of the costs of impeding adults' First Amendment rights.

"When a policy's burdens on protected speech substantially exceed its effectiveness at achieving its stated purpose, it fails the constitutional requirement of being 'substantially related' to that purpose, regardless of how important the objective may be," he continued in the press release. "Add to this the cybersecurity risks and degradation of internet infrastructure, and we have a clear case where costs exceed benefits."

Karen Oren, a cofounder of the wedding stationery brand The Ceremony Club, uses ChatGPT for every part of her wedding.

"I get advice from ChatGPT sometimes," said Oren, who's getting married next year. While she has a human wedding planner, she still utilizes the LLM — especially after work hours. "Those late-night conversations at 10 p.m., scrolling through Instagram, getting inspiration, I use ChatGPT with [that] inspiration," she told Mashable. An example is inputting wedding dresses she likes and her budget, and asking ChatGPT to find boutiques near her.

"I make it work hard for me," she joked.

Oren isn't alone. Since ChatGPT launched, people have utilized it in their relationships — to write flirty messages, to win fights, and now to plan their nuptials. Across Reddit and Instagram, couples are sharing how they're using ChatGPT and other AI tools for wedding planning. 

From wedding advice to graphics

"There are so many different blogs and Reddit threads and websites that you can go through for advice, and it's kind of nice to have a streamlined version of what you're looking for with links to different pages to kind of like get exactly what you need," said Alessandra, a bride who got married last month. (She requested to be referred to by her first name only.)

In addition to ChatGPT, Alessandra told Mashable she used Gemini search and the image generator Midjourney while planning her wedding. She used a combination of the latter and Canva to make her cocktail menus. She got specific about how she wanted the specialty drinks to look (three espresso beans on an espresso martini, and a Tajín rim on a margarita) and a hand-drawn style. Since she has a paid Midjourney subscription through her job, she figured she'd use the tools she had as opposed to paying someone on Etsy or trying to make it totally herself.

Rachel, the person behind the hand-drawn stationery Etsy business PipiPrintables, told Mashable that while AI is great for many things, she doesn't believe it can replicate artistic talent. 

"It can try to mimic, but it doesn’t have the same authentic look and feel," she said. Understandably, though, cost is a major factor, and some people are willing to forgo the aesthetics of real hand-drawn art. "I think, like most things, there is a place and market for both."

Illustrator and graphic designer Sasa Khalisa echoed the sentiment. AI can help couples who are tight on budget and time, she said. For couples who pay more attention to their wedding aesthetics, she believes they'd steer away from AI images "as it tends to generate generic or flawed images" — known colloquially as "AI slop." 

Khalisa has seen changes in her business since the onset of AI, including the rise of ready-made templates. She's diversified her business in response by selling digital graphic assets on top of custom-made invitations and portraits to adapt to the changes. 

Physical memories in the AI age

Like basically every other industry out there, AI has also impacted other vendors in the wedding industry.

Wedding photographer and planner Lynea D'Aprix told Mashable she believes competition within the industry will get tougher because of AI, but also believes the results will be "better businesses doing a better job supporting couples."

AI can help reduce busywork and save money, D'Aprix continued, but she noted there are large caveats — including formulaic content.

"AI is helpful, but it is still quite outdated when it comes to wedding information, especially, and it is generic," she said. "If couples opt for using AI, I encourage them to double-check their work with a professional. At the end of the day, AI is just a tool."

She believes couples are equally divided in their feelings about using AI. Some are excited, others are concerned about the impacts. "I've noticed the couples that are open to it are already utilizing it for their jobs," she said, "so it's natural to them to use it for their personal life as well."

That's the case with both Alessandra and Oren. Oren and her sister Leore, the other cofounder of The Ceremony Club, also use ChatGPT in their business. Leore called it their third and fourth employee. "We have a lot of work on our plate all the time, so it just helps get things moving," she told Mashable. "We are a small team, so it does really help us." They said they use it for tasks such as resourcing, development, and photo editing.

The Ceremony Club sells physical memorabilia, such as photo albums and keepsake boxes. And while the sisters use ChatGPT in their business and personal lives, they also acknowledge the pull young adults have away from technology.

"We actually notice that people are kind of sick of their phones and sick of technology," Karen said. "So it's nice to have an option that you're not looking at a screen."

"I think that a big inspiration for [wedding photo albums] was kind of bringing back a nostalgic thing that we all had in our homes, which was our parents' photo albums," Leore said. "So I feel like there are certain things that new technology can't really compete with."

If you've spent any amount of time swiping on Hinge, you've probably hit that inevitable wall — either you've run out of potential matches or your queue just isn't hitting like it used to. Eventually, the thrill fades, the dopamine drops, and you might start thinking it's time for a break.

Taking a break can mean a few things. For the terminally online daters dissecting the algorithm to beat the ELO, it might mean deleting your account and starting from scratch. For others, it's simply pausing the profile, deleting the app, and waiting until the next self-esteem dip prompts them to return. Either way, burnout on dating apps is real.

How to use Fresh Start on Hinge

Hinge, however, quietly offers an in-app reset button called Fresh Start. It's a hidden feature for users who are unhappy with their experience and want to refresh their feed. Whether you feel invisible or like your current lineup doesn't reflect your vibe, Fresh Start basically reboots your Discover page to resemble those early, exciting days on the app.

To access it, head to Settings -> Delete Account, and when prompted to explain why, select "I wasn't satisfied with my Hinge experience." A pop-up will appear offering you a fresh start — accept it, and you're all set.

Credit: Screenshot: Hinge / Chance Townsend

Some notes, though: it's a full reset so while you'll keep your current matches, you'll lose any pending likes in your queue. That also includes profiles you've swiped left on and any cuties stuck in Rose Jail. Additionally, this option is only available once every two to three weeks and also won't work if you're profile is currently paused.

Cards on the table, it’s been a gloriously slutty year. There’s no shame in hiding it. I’ve been single longer than one hand can tally, and I’d kill for a dual income to upgrade my lifestyle here in Chicago. On the plus side, I get to live shamelessly doing whatever I want, which lately includes testing gay dating apps for Mashable. But recently, the same old dating apps have become a bit choppy. 

Grindr ads are killing me; the gays on Hinge all lie about having boats; and thanks to a former stalker of mine, I’ve been banned from Tinder for almost a decade. But, that’s a different story. I’ve been looking for a new way to have casual sex, and I might be a little late to the game, but Jesus H. Christ, Sniffies — where the hell have you been hiding?

For the gays still blissfully unaware of the seedy circus that is Sniffies, just know it makes Grindr look like something your mom would pull up at Sunday brunch. In comparison to Sniffies, Grindr keeps your feed rather tame — faceless torsos, struggling actors’ headshots, blank profiles, and if you’re lucky, some muscle jock’s butt. Despite Grindr's NSFW reputation, it's nothing you couldn’t post on Instagram. 

Sniffies, on the other hand? Cocks. Everywhere. Hole. As far as the eye can see. All plastered on a blue map of your area. Face pics feel borderline illegal, because this is an app designed for sex and absolutely nothing else. And, you can find it in seconds. Even the best hookup apps could never work this fast. The first time I used the “app” (I’ll speak more on why that’s in quotes in a bit), I had a man over from around the corner and in my apartment in less than five minutes. It was almost too easy.

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Credit: Mashable Photo Composite

Use Sniffies Anonymously

 

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How does Sniffies work?

Alright, so, you can’t get Sniffies in the App Store anymore, thanks to Apple’s famously prudish guidelines. Bummer. I know. Instead, you have to use whatever browser you’ve got on your phone or laptop and head to the Sniffies website. You’re prompted with the option to either create a profile or cruise anonymously. If you make a profile, you can basically do everything you’d do on any gay dating app — set your preferences, drop a bio, broadcast your kinks, casually note your stance on fisting, you get the picture — only here the big question is, “How much nudity should I show in my profile?”

When your profile is complete, you’re graced with the Sniffies cruising map. Profiles appear in little circles, almost like pins. You can click on any profile and message any guy you’re interested in meeting IRL. You’ll also get access to popular cruising locations around town, which you may or may not have even known were cruising areas. (Editor’s note: In New York City, we’ve heard credible reports that the NYPD is using Sniffies to arrest gay men at popular cruising destinations, so cruise accordingly.) After using Sniffies, I’ll never look at my local home improvement store bathroom the same again.

Some of these locations are set in public parks, businesses, and the like. Obviously, cruising in places like this is not legal, and I definitely don't recommend breaking the law to meet guys. That's not me being coy, either. No matter how much you might want to, it’s probably not wise to meet up and get drilled by the 6’4” daddy asking you to meet somewhere you definitely shouldn’t.

You’ll also see a number of men hosting sex parties, group jerkoff sessions, gloryholes, and more. These are typically planned in advance, and you’ll have to ask the group host if you can attend. He’ll probably say yes, and can you bring any friends?

Unlike most gay dating apps, even if you don’t make a profile, you can still access everything on Sniffies right away. While that can be convenient, please protect your privacy accordingly. However, as a free user, you’ll only be able to send photos of yourself in the chat. This is great for all you DL men with wives. And, yes, I am judging you.

Should I get Sniffies?

Hey, that’s up to you — but here’s what you need to do. Be careful. People on Sniffies are on Sniffies for one thing and one thing only: to have sex with you. You will find sex as a gay man (or trans person, y’all can hop on, too!) through Sniffies, just make sure you’re doing so safely and not getting yourself into any trouble. Fun is fun when it’s fun, just use your brain, even as all your blood rushes elsewhere. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. And, for the love of God — get tested regularly.

If you do want to give it a shot, just head to the Sniffies website.

A coalition between Pornhub's parent company Aylo and other adult content producers has come together to create the Adult Studio Alliance (ASA), which aims to standardize safety across the industry with its Code of Conduct.

Safety precautions, such as testing for HIV and other STIs every 14 days, have long been mandatory for professional porn productions in the U.S. However, the ASA's goal isn't to introduce new safety procedures — it's to standardize them in a clear, unified, and structured way, as stated in a press release.

Key guidelines of the ASA include:

• Give performers full transparency, like scene details and partners, prior to booking

• Boundary checklists and pre-shoot discussions

• Intimacy coordinator or other liaison available before, during, and after a shoot

• Health and safety protocols — like STI testing every 14 days

• Prohibitions on drugs and alcohol on a shoot, and guidelines about prescription medication

• Requirements for licensing, transparency, and ethical representation

The full Code of Conduct is available on the ASA's website.

"The ASA Code of Conduct sets a benchmark for how adult content should be made," Aylo's VP of brand and community, Alex Kekesi, commented in the press release.

Aylo is one of the founding members of the ASA; it owns Pornhub and also studios such as Brazzers and Sean Cody. The other founding members are Dorcel, ERIKALUST, Gamma Entertainment (which owns sites like Adult Time), Mile High Media, and Ricky’s Room.

"When we protect performers' rights, we foster an empowering work environment and destigmatize porn, ultimately benefiting both our industry and society as we create safer content," Kekesi continued.

"I believe strong production standards are the foundation of a safe and respectful and successful industry, and I've always believed performers deserve nothing less. That's why I'm truly excited to see the launch of the Adult Studio Alliance and to enthusiastically welcome this initiative," said performer Cherie DeVille, who has written for Mashable.

Performer and marketing director for queer porn studio, CrashPadSeries.com, Jiz Lee, told Mashable that much of the groundwork and bullet points of this new Code of Conduct were made in the Adult Performer Advocacy Committee's (APAC) performer bill of rights and code of conduct, which were created by a volunteer-based group of performers over a decade ago.

While it would've been considerate for big studios to credit APAC, Lee said, it's great to see this transparency and effort by major studios. "It shows that performers have power to influence the industry and working conditions," they said. Lee wishes ASA's code of conduct included points on AI, tagging (the marketing language used, especially for BIPOC and LGBTQ performers), and individualized health and performer agency (such as working with HIV-positive performers).

This coalition and Code of Conduct come at a time when the adult industry is under scrutiny. Countries, including the UK and France, as well as around half of the United States, have established age-verification laws that require users to input their personal data to access explicit material.

Despite free speech experts and an initial study suggesting that age-verification doesn't work for its intended purpose — keeping minors off of porn sites — more places are adopting them. It's also causing non-explicit platforms, like Spotify, to start age-verifying as well. Earlier this year, experts in the First Amendment and the internet warned Mashable that these laws can fundamentally change the internet and often require more and more personal data as time goes on.

There's also a conservative push in the United States to outright ban porn entirely. The far-right blueprint for Trump's second presidential term, Project 2025, outlines prohibiting pornography and imprisoning creators. Since Trump's second inauguration in January, a few bills have been introduced to ban porn. The bills haven't moved since they were introduced, however.

Popular YouTube speed-dating show Pop the Balloon or Find Love is leveling up as a dating app, creators Arlette Amuli and her husband, Bolia Matundu (who goes by BM), announced.

If you’ve somehow missed the show, which consistently racks up between one and two million views per episode, here’s the premise: singles line up to be judged by other singles, with participants popping the balloons of anyone they don’t feel a spark with. It’s chaotic, painfully honest, and extremely awkward — which is exactly why fans can’t stop watching.

The app announcement dropped ahead of the show’s 78th episode last week on Amuli’s YouTube channel. BM said the upcoming app will include the usual features, such as chatting, connecting, and matching — along with an extra twist: some contestants from the show will also be featured on it.

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There’s no release date yet, but viewers can sign up for early access through a waitlist link shared during the episode. Mashable reached out to the creators for comment, but didn’t receive a response before publication.

The Pop the Balloon universe has already expanded beyond YouTube. A Netflix adaptation premiered back in April with Insecure’s Yvonne Orji as host, and an official UK spinoff is on the way. The Netflix version featured a more "diverse" cast, with some longtime fans upset, since the original series has become a standout Black dating show.

TL;DR: Unblock Pornhub for free from Italy with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

Age-verification laws are still producing ripples through the world of porn.

Individuals are being asked to provide proof of age in order to access adult content. Earlier in 2025, more than a third of U.S. states introduced age verification laws for online adult content. A similar situation has been taking place in France and the UK, and now Italy is the latest country to implement restrictions.

These age-verification laws raise serious privacy concerns. The prospect of handing over information to third-party systems and not knowing how these companies are handling or storing that data is naturally concerning to potential users. Fortunately, there is a simple workaround that can secure your access to your favorite sites without risking your personal information.

If you want to unblock porn sites like Pornhub for free from Italy, we have all the information you need.

How to unblock Pornhub for free in Italy

VPNs are useful tools that can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other locations. This straightforward process bypasses geo-restrictions so you can access sites like Pornhub from anywhere in the world.

Unblock Pornhub by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to Pornhub

4. Visit Pornhub

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Credit: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan)

$12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee)

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The best VPNs for unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free-trial peiods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Pornhub without actually spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you the opportunity to temporarily retain access to Pornhub before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to sites like Pornhub, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for bypassing content restrictions is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for Pornhub?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking porn sites like Pornhub, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast streaming speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Unblock Pornhub for free in Italy with ExpressVPN.

Amidst a host of period tracking apps out there like Flo and Natural Cycles, menstrual health startup Joii is promising something new: measuring period blood volume with AI to diagnose conditions like endometriosis, and it launches today in the UK.

One in three menstruators experience heavy bleeding during their periods, according to the UK's National Health Service (NHS), and it can be a symptom of painful conditions endometriosis, fibroids, and adenomyosis. It can take four to 11 years to be diagnosed with endometriosis, and as many as 60 percent of cases remain undiagnosed. The founder of Joii, Justyna Strzeszynska, developed the app after her own painful journey to a fibroids diagnosis.

The aim of the Joii Period Evaluation app is to use AI to track one's cycle and spot any potential issues to flag to your doctor.

To do this, users will have to buy Joii Evaluation Pads — there are day and night variations — and download the app (available on Apple and Android devices). When you want to see how much you've bled and whether there are any clots, hold your phone over the pad and scan using the app. The app will check whether you're using a day or night pad, and whether there are any clots to detect, according to a video on Joii's website.

Credit: Joii

You can also use the app to track other symptoms, such as pelvic pain and fatigue.

"We already count our steps, monitor our sleep and track our heart rate," Strzeszynska commented in a press release shared with Mashable. "Measuring blood loss is simply the next step to better understanding our bodies and demanding the care we deserve. We want every woman to have proof, not just pain."

In a five-month-long study with 72 participants, 88 percent said Joii would improve how they communicate period volume with their doctor, and just over half (52 percent) said their period health literacy improved after using the app.

If you've been on the internet long enough, you know Rule 34: If it exists, there's porn of it.

That may sound crude, especially in the time of age-verification laws requiring users' personal data to visit NSFW sites (and sometimes SFW sites, too), but Rule 34 was coined by a British teen in 2003, according to a 2016 Washington Post article. The early 2000s were a wildly different time on the internet. Pre-Instagram, pre-TikTok, pre-age verification. But porn? Porn always existed online.

While the web has changed a lot over the past 20 years since "Rule 34" was defined, it still rings true — especially when you look at Rule34dle, a mashup of the infamous rule and everyone's favorite word game, Wordle.

Like Wordle, Rule34dle is a game, but distinctly different. When you go on the site, you'll be paired with two fictional franchise characters (like Pokémon) and told how many pornographic posts exist of the one on the left. The number of smutty posts for the character on the right is hidden. You must guess which of the two has more explicit art out there online.

If you're right, you'll then be paired with the character with the higher smut count and a new character — and you'll build your streak from there.

There are also several variations to play the game, including franchise characters, removing AI results, and "hard mode," which makes you choose between three characters, and with all explicit post numbers hidden.

Rule34dle, created by Reddit user u/DandelionGaming based on an idea from u/PensAndEndorsement on Reddit, according to the website, also features a daily challenge. Each day, you can play 10 comparison rounds with different characters in each round. You'll have to guess blindly — the number of porny art posts for both characters will be hidden. The daily challenge is the same for everyone, and even if you get one wrong, you can still play through all 10 rounds.

And good news for fan fiction fans: There's also an alpha version of AO3dle out there, where you can guess which of two characters has more erotica works written about them on the fan fiction website Archive of Our Own (also known as AO3). AO3dle features both a unique pairing and a daily challenge, like Rule34dle does.

As Kotaku pointed out, streamers are playing Rule34dle with their friends, and with hilarious results, on TikTok.

On Nov. 4, Zohran Mamdani won the New York City mayoral election, with campaign promises like a rent freeze and fast and free buses. He gave hope to New Yorkers across the city — as well as inadvertently giving hope to daters.

Mamdani met his wife, animator and illustrator Rama Duwaji, on Hinge in 2021, and they married in February. (Hinge doesn't typically comment on public figures' personal relationships, the app told Mashable.) In the days since Mamdani's win, some have taken to social media to share their hope to find their future partner in a similar fashion. Others, though, are lamenting that they haven't found their own leftist, smiling mayoral winner, and likely won't, because the app "isn't the same" as it was four years ago.

"This can't be the same Hinge Zohran met his wife on," X user @dfarecs posted last week.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.

The feeling is shared on TikTok, with videos and comments flooding the app proclaiming that there's no way Mamdani and his wife "met on the same Hinge app I'm using," and that "Hinge was peak 2021-2023 it fell off." 

But the shared feeling that the apps are decaying isn't new. In response to @dfarecs's post, a 2023 video from comedian Keara Sullivan about this began recirculating on X. "If you're someone who met their partner off a dating app at any point in the last year-and-a-half, two years, just know that you caught the last chopper out of [Vietnam]," she said. 

Sullivan wasn't talking about Hinge specifically, but rather apps in general. But she insisted that singles were "in the trenches," and that she didn't know what changed in the last year, but friends of all genders weren't having luck on these platforms. 

That video, with 4.5 million views, is two years old, but the sentiment has only seemed to permeate popular opinion since then. Dating apps boomed in 2020 thanks to worldwide lockdowns, but in the five years since, the experience of using them — just like the experience of being online generally — has shifted, and many say for the worse.

Tinder and Hinge both launched in 2012 (and their parent company, Match Group, merged with Tinder in 2017 and acquired Hinge in 2018). Over a decade on, the apps have lost their novelty with daters. In a Mashable story earlier this year about whether AI features are good for dating apps, sexologist, sociologist, and relationship expert Dr. Jennifer Gunsaullus broke down several reasons for this:

• Swipe fatigue: a buzzphrase, but daters do really feel this. "Dating" with your thumb, scrolling through profile after profile, can get exhausting — especially when you're not seeing results. 

• The paradox of choice: With an abundance of potential matches, it becomes hard to pick just one.

• Superficial snap judgments: Deciding whether to go on a date with someone based on a few photos and a bio, maybe some prompt responses.

• Bad behavior like ghosting.

Trust in these apps has also declined. Daters who have been on apps for years have seen features they used to enjoy for free now paywalled, and other features that were once unique to one app are now globbed onto others.

This distrust has translated into lawsuits and government action. Last year, a class-action lawsuit against Match Group (that's since gone to arbitration) claimed that the apps are "addictive" and "predatory," prioritizing making money over matches. In September, two senators wrote a letter to Match's CEO compelling the company to take action against romance scams.

Hinge itself recognizes the evolving needs of daters and the challenges they face, and gathers feedback from daters and community partners to better understand. Those insights inspire new features. This year, for example, Hinge launched AI-driven prompt feedback and new prompts created in collaboration with psychotherapist Esther Perel, driven by user frustration about profiles sounding the same and blending together. And in response to lack of responsiveness and conversations fizzling — another big dating app gripe — Hinge introduced a cap on unanswered messages.

Still, there are reasons beyond the platforms themselves that contribute to the malaise of dating. Young women are increasingly liberal, while young men are increasingly conservative, which could make finding someone who shares the same values difficult. The job market is poor, and the increasing cost of living has impacted how people date; they may not want to settle down in a state of financial insecurity. 

Meanwhile, the rise of AI has led to people using chatbots to date for them — if not choosing to date a chatbot full-stop. And as some people fall for LLMs, others want to remove tech from dating entirely and meet someone in person. 

Tinder has taken a financial hit as of late, perhaps due to these mounting issues. Its direct revenue is down 3 percent year-over-year, and its paying users are down 7 percent year-over-year, according to Match's quarter three earnings report. Bumble shared a similar story in its third-quarter earnings: total revenue is down 10 percent year over year, and total paying users 16 percent in the same time frame.

Ironically, Hinge is soaring financially. Its direct revenue increased 27 percent, and paying users increased 17 percent, both year-over-year. So despite social media's complaints, people are still looking for love on that app. Whether they'll find a future mayor to marry, however, is uncertain.

Apple has removed top Chinese gay dating apps Blued and Finka from the country's App Store, WIRED has reported.

Apple received a government order to remove the apps. "We follow the laws in the countries where we operate. Based on an order from the Cyberspace Administration of China, we have removed these two apps from the China storefront only," an Apple spokesperson told WIRED in an email. "Earlier this year, the developer of Finka elected to remove the app from storefronts outside of China, and Blued was available only in China."

Blued and Finka, which are owned by the same parent company, BlueCity, have also reportedly been removed from several Android stores. Users who have already downloaded the apps can still use them, according to WIRED.

Blued launched in 2012 and had 60 million registered users worldwide as of 2021. It was a location-based dating and livestreaming service for gay and bisexual men, Rest of World reported that year, and was originally a Chinese-language copy of the American gay dating app Jack'd. Finka, meanwhile, is a social network for younger gay and bisexual men, and BlueCity acquired it in 2020. Blued is branded as HeeSay internationally.

This is part of the Chinese government's increasing crackdown on LGBTQ content and advocacy groups in recent years. While public acceptance of LGBTQ people has grown in China, according to Human Rights Watch, there's increased government repression and censorship. Same-sex marriage isn't legal in China.

Grindr is already delisted in China's App Store, meaning that it's unsearchable there. According to the 2021 Rest of World article, the reason that BlueCity was able to function in China was at least in part because it offered sexual health services such as HIV testing. But in 2022, founder Ma Baoli stepped down as CEO and hinted at how difficult it was to operate an LGBTQ business in China.

Sexting can open up a whole new frontier for your sex life. In my experience, it’s an exciting form of digital foreplay that builds anticipation like nothing else. But you can't just slide into someone's DMs on a random dating app and start a spicy conversation (unless you're on a site like AdultFriendFinder, where that's the whole point). Real sexting requires more thought, especially when it comes to your privacy.

As Mashable's resident dating app expert for the last three years, I've tested dozens of platforms to find the best and most discreet apps for the job. My highest priority is always user safety. I spoke with security expert Gary Orenstein, who stressed that for sharing intimate content, "privacy features cannot be optional — they’re essential." He recommends looking for apps with three key features: end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, and screenshot detection.

After all, if you believe in safe sex, you should practice safe sexting, too. Based on my hands-on testing and these expert criteria, I’ve picked the best sexting apps that will keep your chats private.

Recent updates to this guide:

We regularly test new apps and dating platforms. For our most recent update to this guide in November 2025, we made the following changes:

• Added a new section explaining why some apps (especially those using paid chat operators) didn't make our list of recommendations.

• Confide: We've once again named this the best overall sexting app, replacing Signal as the top pick. We still recommend Signal as the best free secure messaging app. On balance, we think Confide's security and privacy tools give it the edge.

• Lovesense Remote: We added Lovesense Remote as the app that's "Best for Group Sexting." Lovesense Remote is also a fun way for couples (and polyamorous folks) to incorporate sexting and Bluetooth sex toys to their love life.

• FetLife: We named FetLife "Best for Niche Kinks & Fetishes." This social networking platform is popular in the kinkster community and can be a good way to connect with sexy new friends.

What about other sexting sites?

You've probably seen other "best of" lists that include apps I've left off. As Mashable's dating expert, I've tested dozens of platforms, and my goal is to recommend apps for genuine connections that prioritize your safety. Here's why some popular platforms didn't make the cut.

• A note on "paid operator" sites: Many platforms marketed for sexting (like InstaBang, Arousr, SweetSext, and SextLocal) don't primarily connect you with other real users. Instead, they often use "paid operators" or "professional chat partners" to provide a fantasy-driven, transactional experience. While there's nothing wrong with that, it's a paid fantasy service, not mutual sexting. My list (with the clear exception of SextPanther, which we've labeled as the "Best Sexting Service" for connecting with actual adult performers) focuses on apps for genuine, user-to-user interaction.

• Couple's apps: You also won't find apps like Between on this list. While it's a private messenger for couples, it's not really a sexting app. For couples who want to enhance their digital intimacy, our picks (like We-Vibe and Lovesense Remote) offer a much more interactive experience by integrating with teledildonics.

"Really, everyone is a creator," Amrapali (Ami) Gan, former CEO of OnlyFans, told Mashable in an interview. Think about how every audience member films the concert they're watching — or how everyone at a restaurant films their food. 

Gan and her co-founder, Kailey Magder, hope to harness our modern creator economy with Vylit, an upcoming 18+ platform where, apparently, anyone can build an audience and monetize their posts, including topless content.

"Vylit is where sharing and earning collide, as thirst traps and everyday moments live side by side," Vylit's website claims. "Why? Because you're hot."

Gan, who was CEO of the adult platform OnlyFans from December 2021 to July 2023, said that we're just at the beginning of the creator economy, and it's going to become more and more normalized for anyone to sell content, subscriptions, and the like based on their personal interests.

"That's truly the future," she said.

Vylit launches in beta next month, with the goal of having a broader launch in March or April 2026. But while Vylit will allow bare breasts, don't expect it to be exactly like OnlyFans. 

Topless, but no nudes on Vylit

After Gan left OnlyFans, she started a marketing company called Hoxton Projects. She and Magder worked with other brands there — but they were both entrepreneurial-minded, Gan said, and they ideated on what their own business could look like. 

Left: Ami Gan. Right: Kailey Magder Credit: Vylit

They had other ideas, like a dog treat company or holistic cleaning products, but between people frequently reaching out to them with ideas for "the next OnlyFans" and their own frustrations with modern social media, the idea for Vylit formed.

"It truly addresses this white space that sits between traditional platforms like Instagram and TikTok, and these adult creator platforms," Gan said. "And that's where we see the opportunity to have an 18 and over platform where anyone can monetize content, build a community, and have true freedom of expression."

That freedom has its limits, though. "As we say, we're going to free the nipple, but not the rest," Gan said. Meaning, only the top half will be allowed Vylit. No genitalia, no explicit content. (Gan led marketing at OnlyFans at the time when it tried to ban explicit content in August 2021; the platform soon reversed course after a horde of backlash.)

While X and Bluesky allow adult content, Meta platforms (Facebook and Instagram) and TikTok don't.

The reason behind Vylit's line, Gan explained, is to appeal to a mass market audience. "These days you can turn on HBO or whatever and see all kinds of stuff, so we feel that it's a lot more acceptable while still keeping that broader appeal to anyone who wants that safe space to share content," she said, while not opening an app first thing in the morning and seeing nudes.

18+ in the age of age verification

"To us, the future of social media is very much 18 and over," Gan said.

It seems that more and more legislatures believe this, too, with the increased adoption of age-verification laws, which require personal data like a government ID or biometric scans to prove you're of age. This goes for explicit sites, but more and more non-explicit sites are installing age-verification measures like Spotify and YouTube. Free speech and internet experts told Mashable earlier this year that increased age verification would fundamentally change the internet, including curtailing minors' access. 

At Vylit, the team had these conversations earlier on, Gan said. All users will go through an age verification process in the form of a facial age check. If you want to upload content onto Vylit, you'll have to submit an ID as well. 

All content will be reviewed by AI before it's published on Vylit — including text. (Vylit is partnering with Unitary AI around content moderation). Everything that gets flagged will be reviewed by a human, Gan said. 

Tools for creators — beyond what OnlyFans has

AI also shapes the tools for creators on the platform. One is image-generation, Magder said. Vylit can create an "AI twin," so creators can input images of themselves and it will generate content with that "twin."

Then there's AI chat, created in the likeness of the creator. Fans (or "members") will be able to speak either with the creator themselves or their AI, and there will be transparency around that. (Meanwhile, on OnlyFans, creators are using controversial messaging tools, where fans think they're speaking to creators when actually they're chatting with AI bots — or other humans called "chatters.")

The Vylit team is also developing stronger search and discovery tools to easily find creators you're interested in. Not just based on aesthetic preferences but hobbies and interests, Gan said. This will help foster community as well as engagement, as fans will have connection with a creator beyond what they look like. 

While OnlyFans didn't come up, the platform is known for its lack of search function, so much so that users have taken to creating their own.

How Vylit is different than other creator platforms

Gan and Magder made these features, and Vylit as a whole, with creators in mind. Creator jobs grew 7x in recent years, according to a study released earlier this year, and Goldman Sachs estimated that the creator economy could hit $480 billion by 2027. 

But with platforms like FanHouse — and let's face it, OnlyFans — already out there, where does Vylit fit in?

Gan said that Vylit is a platform that's made for everyone, whether you want to monetize content or build a community. She claimed that users will be able to build a community on Vylit, whereas other platforms are typically for those who had an existing audience. 

Magder concurred, saying, "These existing platforms are really focused on the top one percent of creators, and expecting those creators to do marketing in order to build their following." But the marketing has to happen on other platforms — whereas you can join Vylit and create an audience. 

"We really think about what's stopping people from becoming creators, and it's like, well, they don't feel like they have a big enough following to monetize," she continued. So, they're building Vylit to allow creators of any size to thrive.

And there will be monetization tools. Vylit creators will be able to offer subscriptions, content pay-per-view, and tips. Magder said they thought about creator pain points and how they can reverse engineer the platform to support everyday creators — whether they're small and trying to become a creator or they're a big creator who's been in the space a long time.

This month, though, most creators will have to watch Vylit develop from afar, as it's invite-only.

Tinder is testing a new AI matching feature called Chemistry, its parent company, Match Group, told investors on Tuesday during its third quarter earnings call.

The dating app's interactive feature is "a major part of Tinder's upcoming 2026 product experience," a Tinder spokesperson told Mashable. Chemistry will get to know users through conversational prompts and (with permission) their camera roll to learn about their interests and personality. It's currently live in Australia and New Zealand, and Tinder plans to roll it out in more countries in the coming months.

The announcement comes soon after Tinder started requiring facial scans for new U.S. users last month. It also launched several other features this year, like Modes, which lets users arrange double dates or indicate if they're a college student.

This also isn't Tinder's first foray into AI features. The app launched an AI photo selector tool last year, which also assesses a user's camera roll, this time for the purpose of picking the best photos. Tinder also uses AI for trust and safety tools, like scans for potentially harmful messages.

"Chemistry aims to reduce dating app fatigue by surfacing a few highly relevant profiles each day — driving more compatible matches and more engaging conversations," Tinder's spokesperson said over email.

Dating app fatigue is a phenomenon that Tinder and other apps have had to contend with over the last few years, as trust in dating apps has declined while singles increasingly want to meet potential partners in person. As daters seek offline connections, dating apps have leaned more and more into AI features.

Match's third-quarter earnings call also reported that Tinder's direct revenue and paying users are both down year-over-year (three percent and seven percent, respectively). Hinge, meanwhile, is up in both metrics (direct revenue increased 27 percent and paying users increased 17 percent year-over-year), continuing the same story as in quarter two: as Tinder struggles, Hinge is on the rise.

After a beta run, adult tube site Pornhub has officially launched Pornhub Shorties, a scroll-based vertical video feed. No more awkwardly holding your phone sideways while using your other hand for...something else.

Viewers can browse trending videos and will receive smart recommendations, according to a press release shared with Mashable. They can like, follow, favorite, or skip videos and watch in full-screen mode, which hides icons and tags. Shorties have no video length limits, unlike TikTok (10 minutes for videos recorded on the app and 60 minutes for videos uploaded) and Reels (20 minutes).

The new feed is also available on Pornhub Gay, with a lesbian-focused feed in development.

"Shorties was created to meet audiences where they are at and reflect how people naturally consume content today," said Pornhub's VP of brand and community, Alex Kekesi, in the press release. "As viewing behaviours evolve, Pornhub is evolving with them. With most of our online traffic coming from mobile, Shorties makes it easier than ever for fans and creators to connect through a seamless, dynamic experience."

In 2020, 84 percent of Pornhub's worldwide traffic came from mobile devices, its insights team reported. According to Statista, that number has grown between 2022 and 2024, peaking at 97 percent in October 2023.

Not only is Pornhub echoing the TikTok FYP with endless vertical videos, but it's also leaning into the social aspect for creators. Most videos feature Pornhub's "More of Me" integration, which links out to a performer's fan sites and social media profiles. This may be a boon for creators, who are often banned or shadowbanned (unable to be discovered) on mainstream social media sites.

The release of Pornhub Shorties comes at a time when the site, as well as online porn in general, is under scrutiny. Age-verification laws, which require personal data from users like a government ID or facial scan in order to check their age, are sweeping the world. Pornhub has removed itself from several states and France thus far due to the burden of complying.

In its press release, Pornhub stated that all Shorties content adheres to its safety protocols, including moderation protocols and verification measures through facial recognition scans, as well as consent forms from co-performers.

TL;DR: Unblock Pornhub from Arizona with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

Porn censorship and age-verification laws have rocked the world of adult entertainment.

More than a third of U.S. states have now introduced restrictions for online adult content. Pornhub has responded by blocking users from those locations. A similar situation is taking place in France and the UK, and the list of impacted locations is likely to grow longer. Fortunately, potential users can bypass these restrictions with a simple hack.

If you want to unblock porn sites like Pornhub for free from Arizona, we have all the information you need.

How to unblock Pornhub for free in Arizona

VPNs are useful tools that can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure servers in other locations. This straightforward process bypasses geo-restrictions so you can access sites like Pornhub from anywhere in the world.

Unblock Pornhub by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to Pornhub

4. Visit Pornhub

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Credit: ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan)

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The best VPNs for unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free-trial peiods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Pornhub without actually spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you the opportunity to temporarily retain access to Pornhub before recovering your investment.

If you want to retain permanent access to sites like Pornhub, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for bypassing content restrictions is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for Pornhub?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking porn sites like Pornhub, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

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• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (including money-back guarantee).

Unblock Pornhub for free in Arizona with ExpressVPN.

At a time when AI is killing entry-level jobs and the only texts back you're getting are from Indeed scammers, professionals are resorting to unorthodox methods to find work.

In a new survey, ResumeBuilder.com found that 34 percent of 2,225 dating app users have used the apps for professional or career-related reasons in the last year. Almost 10 percent said that's the primary reason they use the apps.

Tinder, Bumble, and Facebook Dating are the most common platforms for networking, followed by Hinge, Match, and OkCupid.

"I actually met people in my industry and got useful advice/leads," an anonymous user told ResumeBuilder.com. "Weird but effective," said another.

Among different age groups, the one-in-three figure remained relatively steady: 35 percent for adults aged 18 to 24, 34 percent of those aged 29 to 44, and 33 percent of those aged 45 to 55. Men were a bit more likely to do this than women (37 and 30 percent, respectively).

Most of these folks wanted to expand their network (63 percent), while 42 percent were hoping to receive a referral, and 40 percent wanted a job offer. Thirty-eight percent sought a mentor or career advice, and 34 percent hoped for a job interview.

Of those who used dating apps for professional reasons, a staggering 88 percent reported successfully connecting with someone for career purposes. A bit more than half (51 percent) met their connection in person.

Why are daters — or really, the un- or underemployed — doing this? A majority (58 percent) saw it as a creative or strategic approach, and most (56 percent) believed that personal connections were the most effective way to get hired. Forty-two percent were motivated by the difficult job market.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics hasn't released a jobs report in two months due to the government shutdown. However, the last one, in August, had economists alarmed, as non-farm-related employers added only 22,000 jobs that month, significantly lower than the estimated 80,000. Meanwhile, companies like Amazon are laying off workers due to AI implementation.

All that to say: It's bleak out there.

"Younger professionals in particular feel a lot of pressure to get ahead in a hypercompetitive market," ResumeBuilder.com's chief career advisor, Stacie Haller, said in the press release. "Traditional networking platforms, such as LinkedIn, can feel oversaturated and transactional, where everyone is pitching rather than genuinely connecting."

That's what daters and job seekers told Mashable earlier this year: That LinkedIn is so competitive, it was difficult to find a job there. Professionals may also try to flirt with you on LinkedIn, signaling a blurring of the purposes of these platforms.

"Dating apps, in contrast, provide a more personal and low-pressure environment for building authentic relationships," Haller continued. "The trend signals a broader cultural shift: professionals are moving away from rigid, performative networking norms toward more fluid, human-centered interactions."

Best National Sex Toy Day deals:

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Best deal overall

Namii 2

$101.15 (save $17.85)

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Best runner-up deal

Le Wand Rechargeable Vibrating Massager

$116.99 (save $63)

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Black Friday may be the day to get the best deals on tech, but Nov. 4 (aka National Sex Toy Day) is one of the best times to fill your cart with pleasure products. This is like the pre-game before the holiday season officially kicks off, and tons of retailers are offering steep discounts on a variety of goodies, including vibrators, anal toys, male sex toys, and more.

To help you find the best deal, here’s a shortlist of retailers running National Sex Toy Day sales.

Best deal overall

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Credit: biird

Namii 2

$101.15 at biird
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Why we like it

Biird is hands-down one of my favorite sex toy retailers of all time. Its products are chic, beautifully packaged, and super effective at getting the job done. And right now (through Nov. 5), you can get up to 15% off sitewide with the code NSD.

What to buy: Biird has so many bangers that it’s hard for me to choose just one, but if I had to pick, I’d recommend the Namii 2. It’s an updated version of the Namii (which is one of my favorite clitoral suckers, ever). It has seven suction strengths, six vibration modes, and a bigger mouth for a broader range of stimulation. You can get it in mint, lilac, and sakura pink. It also comes with a super-cute charging base that doubles as a night light, a storage pouch, a travel charger, a cable, and a fun little sticker.

Best runner-up deal

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Credit: Le Wand

Le Wand Rechargeable Vibrating Massager

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$179.99 Save $63.00

 

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Why we like it

Le Wand is iconic. Full stop. The only reason I’ve put it as a runner-up is because biird never has sales, and Le Wand is pretty generous with its discounts. On National Sex Toy Day, you can get up to 50% off select Le Wand toys, or you can shop the Clearance Sale (up to 80% off) if you’d rather have something that isn’t brand-specific. Wand attachments are also on offer (up to 40% off), and there’s a pretty wide selection of wand and mini vibrators to choose from, too.

What to buy: There’s a lot going on at Le Wand right now, so if you’re feeling a little decision paralysis, take a quick second to think about what gets you going (suction, vibration, internal, external, etc.) and then browse for toys within that category. If you’re looking for a new wand vibrator (that’s what Le Wand is known for — it’s literally in the name), then I recommend the Le Wand Rechargeable Vibrating Massager. It’s powerful, has tons of positive reviews, 10 distinctive, rumbly vibration speeds, and 20 vibration patterns to explore.

More National Sex Toy Day deals

• Babeland: Get up to 60% off wand vibes or get 15% off a single full-priced item with code YESPLEASE

• Bellesa boutique: Get up to 80% off sitewide with code SAVE80

• B-vibe: Get up to 85% off select sex toys

• Good Vibes: Get up to 70% off select sex toys, up to 40% off anal plugs, and 50% off the Good Vibes Radiant Rose

• Kiiroo: Get up to 70% off select sex toys

• LELO: Get up to 50% off select toys, plus a free gift

• Lovehoney: Get up to 70% off select sex toys, plus get a free gift when you spend $89

• Lovers: Get 25% off Evolve, Playboy Pleasure, Zero Tolerance, and Gender X toys with the code EVOLVED25

• ZALO: Get 15% off sitewide with code ZALOLOVE

• Zumio: Get 40% off sitewide

So, you're going through a breakup. You're in the thick of heartache and it can feel never-ending. But, rest assured: this too shall pass. But, how long will it take for your post-breakup blues to lose their grip on you? If you're looking for specifics, you've come to the right place.

A statement that's often bandied around is that it takes half the duration of the relationship to get over it. But, is that actually true? We've read the research to get the answers to the burning question: how long does it take to get over a breakup?

It could take three months to feel better

A 2023 study by researchers at the University of Washington examined the recovery period of individuals who experienced a single breakup. The study observed participants over a two-year period and found that people going through breakups experienced a temporary increase in depressive symptoms, which returned to pre-breakup levels after three months.

Self-esteem may take one year to recover

Breakups can do a number on our self-esteem. Processing feelings of rejection can make us question our self-worth, our value as a partner, even our appearance. But, it's important to challenge these thoughts — feelings aren't facts! It's normal for your self-esteem to take a hit in the midst of a breakup, but crucially, it should not be a permanent state. (If it does continue post-breakup, it could help to speak to a therapist.)

A 2017 University of Bern study, published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, found that going through a breakup can decrease self-esteem, but after one year, self-esteem levels in participants levelled out.

Four years until they're just someone you used to know

Carrie Bradshaw, patron saint of heartbreak, once said, "If you love someone and you break up, where does the love go?" Good question, Carrie.

Right now, you're likely wrapping your head around the idea of no longer seeing this person everyday. It's like losing a dear friend. But, one day, you'll be able to look back at your ex simply as someone who was once a part of your life. (If you're keen on staying friends after you break up, it will take time and effort.)

A 2025 study from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign found that for the average person, it takes 4.18 years for attachment bonds to fade away. "People’s former partners simply become someone they used to know," authors Jia Y. Chong and R. Chris Fraley found.

A psychotherapist's perspective on breakup timelines

We know what the research tells us, but what do therapists think based on their experience of talking to patients?

Naomi Magnus, psychotherapist at North London Therapy, says there is no fixed timeline for getting over a breakup. "Your emotional recovery will depend on the length and depth of the relationship, how well you cope in stressful situations, and the support network around you," she tells Mashable.

Magnus adds that many people report gradual improvement over weeks or months, but that processing grief fully could take six months or longer. "It's normal to experience waves of sadness, anger, or longing," she says. "To heal, you need to process these emotions, look after yourself well, socialise with people who love and support you, and reflect on the relationship. It's not easy, but always remember the heartache won't last forever."

Were you the dumper or the dumpee?

How quickly you bounce back from a breakup can also depend on whether you were the dumper or the dumpee, says therapist Jonathan Eddie, a member of British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.

Other factors that can impact recovery time, he tells Mashable, include: "Do you feel relatively secure aside from the relationship? Do you carry psychological wounds from your past that were triggered by the separation? How traumatic was the split? What history did you have together? How badly were your dreams dashed? Were dependants or property involved?"

Can heartbreak last longer than one year?

Eddie says that the ending of a relationship can cause grief that's not unlike the death of a loved one. "Just like bereavement, there’s no set timeframe for processing," he says. "Hopefully, with the benefit of time and new experiences, the intensity will lesson and perhaps even vanish all together." 

“I guess if I was to rely on my experience to put a number on it, I’d say anything up to a year is a reasonable length of time to recover from a breakup," Eddie adds. "If it was to drag on too much beyond that, or if it was to impact on the ability to move forwards in life, then it could be a really healing experience to work alongside a trained therapist."

If you need more advice on getting over a breakup, check out Mashable's guide to moving on after a relationship ends.

Online dating as a gay man is a rite of passage, from the Craigslist m4m era to today's endless scroll. But for all the high rewards, even the best dating apps come with a unique set of challenges for gay men: ghosting, catfishing, straight guys who shouldn't be in your feed, and even some not-so-subtle fetishization. It's a lot to take in when you're just trying to find a genuine connection.

Yet, despite the BS, the best gay dating apps are still one of the main ways to meet new people, especially if you're gay or bisexual. Pew Research found that about one in four LGBTQ+ adults met their partner online, a much higher rate than for straight people.

Of course, we can't talk about gay dating without talking about Grindr. It's still the undisputed king of gay dating apps, even if the user experience has been suffering of late. The free version of Grindr is now stuffed full of ads, leaving many guys longing for an alternative. Plus, because of its well-deserved reputation as one of the top hookup apps, it's not always the best option for making a love connection.

"Grindr is a tried and true app that many queer men gravitate toward to find partners or for relationships that require lesser commitment, so it’s easy to point to it as the No. 1 app," Michelle Herzog, LMFT, AASECT-certified sex therapist, tells Mashable. "However, like Tinder, it’s gained a reputation as a hookup app — but that doesn’t mean there still aren’t men looking for long-term commitments, either."

The good news is that the gay dating app landscape is bigger than Grindr. Mainstream apps like Hinge and OkCupid have made huge strides in inclusivity, while niche apps like Scruff and Feeld cater to specific communities, kinks, and desires. The key is figuring out which one is actually worth your time. So, here's our authoritative guide to the best dating apps for gay men in 2025.

Recent additions to this dating app guide include:

• Feeld: As of October 2025, we've added Feeld to this guide as our top pick for "Best for Kink and Threesomes."

• Hinge: As of October 2025, we've added Hinge as another alternative to Archer, as it's also great for finding serious relationships. We've selected it as the best gay dating app for younger guys as well, due to its popularity with Gen Z.

Which gay dating apps didn't make the cut?

You'll notice a few well-known apps are missing from our main list. Here's why they didn't make our "best of" guide.

• Raya: We know, Raya is the "celebrity dating app," but we're not recommending it. Why? Because, as our own Chance Townsend discovered, its exclusivity is "a bit overhyped." After shelling out $25 per month, he found the vibe "so Tinder-esque," and the user pool wasn't A-list celebs but "consultants, aspiring actors, medical professionals, recruiters, and even students." The consensus: Raya is basically "an expensive Tinder with a better PR team." Save your money.

• Recon: Recon has a reputation as the app for the kink community, but we've opted to leave it off the list. User reviews on Reddit are brutal. One thread described the app as "really buggy" and "not much activity on there anymore." Users in that thread complained that the app is a "waste of time," full of flakes, "catfish," and "fake doms wanting you to be their slave or boy." Other users noted that "a lot of kink/fetish guys have moved on to Instagram, Twitter/X, [or] OnlyFans" or that mainstream apps like Scruff are now "more open and welcoming spaces" for the community.

• Planet Romeo (now Romeo): Planet Romeo (which took over the old Guys4Men, or g4m, site ) is another legacy app we didn't include. While it was once a go-to for finding meaningful relationships, particularly in India and parts of Europe, it's now mostly seen as an app from a bygone era. Reddit threads on the topic are full of nostalgia for the "age of Planet Romeo" and the "slow communication" of the early 2000s. It's just not a primary app for most guys in 2025.

Rom-com author Annabelle Slator wasn't expecting to see a photo of her deceased dog while swiping on a dating app, but there's a first time for everything. But it wasn't just the pooch who Slator recognised. For starters, she'd taken the photo, and the subject was her ex-boyfriend, whose dating app profile she'd just stumbled across.

"He had a picture with my dog (who had since DIED) that I took on his profile!" Slator tells Mashable.

"I was genuinely shocked at him having the audacity to make a profile on the dating app that I LITERALLY WORKED AT but also using pics from a weekend away with me and my family dog!!!" she adds. "I matched with him, messaged him saying, 'Please refrain using pictures of my dead dog to get laid,' and promptly unmatched lmao."

Slator's ex did manage to get a quick apology in before she blocked him. "He gave me a 'sorry hope you're doing OK,'" she says. In her book The Launch Date, Slator included this anecdote as "as an evergreen f*ck you."

Spotting an ex on a dating app is an occupational hazard, unfortunately. The sensible move when you spot a past love might be to slide right past and pretend you didn't see them. To leave the past firmly behind you. But, life isn't always like that. Sometimes, we like to be messy, we swipe right on the former flame because life's too short and, well, they're still hot.

The complex emotions of seeing exes on a dating app

In Slator's case, she matched with the ex to give him a piece of her mind, but others tell me they reconnected because they were curious about what might have been. A few people told me they swiped the hell past the ex and pretended they'd never seen them.

It can bring up complicated emotions when you come face to face with your past. Lucie, who wishes to use a pseudonym for privacy reasons, saw her ex-husband on a dating app and felt "weirdly nostalgic and also resentful."

"Apparently he’s 'emotionally available now,'" she jokes. "The old adage of how women spend an entire relationship working on a man, only for them to put all their hard work into practice for the next woman — it's real!"

Lucie tells me she spent 20 years driving her ex around. "Then we split and he learns to drive, buys a car, gets a flat, and cooks. I did it all before." Her ex now has a new partner and Lucie sees a marked difference in how he behaves towards her. "He now picks his new girlfriend up and she’s treated like a queen! I put up with being his mother/wife for decades and it’s very irritating."

"Sure, maybe he is now emotionally available — but only because i told him to go to therapy!"

For some people, however, the past doesn't always stay in the past.

Rekindling an old flame

Take Chloe's experience: she matched with her university ex-boyfriend on Hinge. "We reconnected for a while, slept together. I wanted to be friends, he ended up wanting more, messy," she tells me.

Chloe and her ex had remained amicable since breaking up at university, so when he left a funny comment on one of her photos on Hinge, she decided to match "out of curiosity and pure shock because he'd been in a relationship since we broke up at uni."

"It was a very serendipitous reconnection," Chloe says. "This kicked off a spring/summer of hanging out that kind of peaked in us ultimately wanting different things out of it." The pair are still in touch, but it's not the same. Chloe's in a new relationship now. "It makes me sad but I kind of know I have to accept it's not really fair on him or my partner for us to be as close as we were."

Chloe has no regrets over her decision to rekindle things. "It was cool to kind of revisit my uni self," she adds.

Not everyone is on good terms with their ex, however. On a dating app, Nina spied an ex-situationship who'd ghosted her, so matched to see what would happen. "He even used a photo I took of him for his profile," she says. Nina's curiosity ultimately led to confirmation that this ex hadn't changed. She got "radio silence" despite matching.

So, should we match with exes out of curiosity, just "for the story," or to be messy? Experts don't advise it (shocking I know!).

Is it a bad idea to match with an ex?

Zachary Zane, Grindr’s sex and relationship expert, says: "If you’re on a swipe-based app, swipe left. For the love of God, don’t swipe right 'just to see if they do!' Disengage!"

"If, for some reason, they reach out to you on the app, feel free to reply, 'Hey, I’m still hurt and not in a place where we can talk at the moment, but I’ll reach out if anything changes,'" Zane advises. "It’s honest, to the point, and should hopefully discourage them from reaching out further. Boundaries are important!"

What should you do if seeing your ex has upset you? "If seeing the profile of your ex on a dating app dysregulates your nervous state and sends you into an anxiety loop/frenzy, then don’t freakin’ engage. Block and move on," Zane says. "What if he/she/they saw you and then realized you blocked them? Who freakin’ cares! You two are exes." 

Marsh Goei, chief dating officer at dating app Breeze says seeing a past love on an app can make the dating world feel small, but it's more common than we realise. "First, don’t panic. It happens to most of us, and while it might stir up uncomfortable feelings, remember: you’re in control. You don’t have to engage, swipe right, or start a conversation. Just swipe away and keep moving."

Give yourself permission to step back, Goei adds. Close the app, throw your phone across the sofa, go for a walk. If it's still bothering you, talk to a friend. "Chances are they’ve had a similar experience, whether spotting an ex on an app, on a date, or on social media. Sharing those feelings with someone who understands can be surprisingly healing," says Goei.

If it makes you feel better, I've seen exes on pretty much all the apps. I've also had the misfortune of bumping into not one, but two exes in person in the same pub on the same night. It was a lot. Yeah, I went home and threw up. What else can you do in that situation?

Anyway! Ultimately, what you do when confronted with an ex is entirely up to you. If you're on good terms and you feel there's unfinished business, it's your call. But if this is someone who's hurt you, caused you emotional pain, treated you badly, curiosity might just kill the cat. So swipe on past and don't give it another thought.

Lovehoney's pre-Black Friday deals:

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Lovehoney Couple's Advent Calendar (24 Day)

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Alright, let’s talk sex toy deals. As Mashable’s resident expert in this area, I see a lot of questionable sales pop up, especially as we get closer to Black Friday. It’s super easy to get swindled online — honestly, places like Amazon and Walmart aren’t the best sources for buying pleasure products thanks to sketchy third-party sellers hawking potentially unsafe knock-offs. My advice? Stick to reputable retailers you trust. That’s why I’m spotlighting Lovehoney today. Its pre-Black Friday sale is totally legit, and the discounts are real and good.

Right now, you can get up to 50% off a pretty wide selection of toys, lingerie, bondage gear, and more at Lovehoney. On top of those markdowns, you’ll also get a free gift if you spend $89 or more (which shouldn’t be too hard to do). Note: This offer excludes Advent calendars.

Sorting through hundreds of discounted nightstand goodies can be overwhelming (especially if it’s your first time), so here are three of the best deals I’ve found so far:

Best deal overall

Opens in a new window

Credit: Lovehoney

Lovehoney Couple's Advent Calendar (24 Day)

$199 at Lovehoney
$617.77 Save $418.77

 

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Why we like it

Even though Lovehoney’s Advent calendars aren’t eligible for the free gift promotion, I still think that Lovehoney Couple's Advent Calendar (24 Day) is the best deal you can get on the site right now. According to the product page, this calendar is only $199 but holds goodies worth over $617 (so you’re saving over $418). Inside, you’ll get 24 items, including the Womanizer Classic 2 and the We-Vibe Sync Lite, and a bunch of other fun little treats. (If you want to know exactly what’s inside, the product page lists each item under the description section, but if you’d rather it be a surprise, I’ve kept this blurb spoiler-free.)

Advent calendars are a quirky and exciting way to celebrate the holiday season, and with a pleasure-focused calendar, you might be able to rekindle a spark with your partner or discover even better ways to love yourself. Like I always say, an orgasm a day keeps the blues away (it'll also give you flawless, glowing skin).

Best vibrator deal

Opens in a new window

Credit: Lovehoney

Lovehoney Power Play Rechargeable Mini Wand Vibrator

$39.99 at Lovehoney
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Why we like it

It’s always hard for me to recommend a vibrator for someone I don’t know (there’s so much that goes into picking a sex toy), but wand vibrators are usually a safe bet. Right now, you can get the Lovehoney Power Play Rechargeable Mini Wand Vibrator for just $39.99 (save $25). It’s waterproof, available in black or purple, has a travel lock, and is small enough to throw in your purse (I’d recommend putting it in a pouch or bag first). There are seven vibration modes, and it’s USB-rechargeable (so you could potentially charge it at the airport or even in your car if you run out of juice).

This little wand has 88 reviews, all of which are pretty positive. Most give it a five-star “orgasm rating” and praise its compact yet powerful design. “My girlfriend and I love to travel, and our usual wand was just too big to bring with us on holiday, so I purchased this little cute thing, and boy did it impress,” one reviewer writes. “So happy with this purchase and so was my partner.”

Best anal sex toy deal

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Credit: Rocks-Off

Rocks-Off 7 Speed Ass-Berries Raspberry butt plug

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Not everyone is into anal, and that’s OK! But, if you are, the Rocks-Off 7 Speed Ass-Berries Raspberry butt plug is only $26.99 right now. Sure, that’s only a $3 discount, but it’s totally worth it for the quality and unique design of this plug. You’ll notice that the head is textured (like a raspberry; you can get as graphic with that as you want) with raised nubs, and the base is super flared out, so there’s no chance this cutie will accidentally disappear during playtime. It also vibrates, which isn’t something most butt plugs at this price point can do (or do well, that is).

With tons of five-star reviews (some as recent as last week), you can’t beat this price. But please, for the love of God, USE LUBE. Do not attempt to play with this toy (or any anal toy) without a generous amount of water-based lube.

If you’ve spent more than five minutes in modern dating, you’ve probably heard whispers about the Are We Dating The Same Guy? Facebook groups. Open only to women who must pass vetting checks to be admitted, they are designed to share information about men they’re dating.  Now, new platforms like The Tea — an app where women can anonymously post and search reviews of men, verify identities with photo checks, and even run background searches — are turning dating whisper networks into something slicker, more searchable, and more permanent.

The Tea has exploded in popularity, climbing to the very top of the Apple App Store charts and reportedly amassing more than four million users. But its rapid rise has been overshadowed by controversy, including two major security breaches and the recent news that the app has been removed by Apple from the App Store in all markets.

These groups are pitched as a form of protection, where women can warn other women about toxic or dangerous behaviour, or used to post warnings about men they’re dating. Women upload pictures of men they’re seeing and ask: “Anyone else dating him?” The comments flood in, sometimes revealing patterns of cheating or even serious crimes. Other times, the complaints touch more on poor dating etiquette, such as “he never texts back.”

Scrolling on social media, it's not uncommon to see screenshots of dating app message exchanges or TikTokkers live-vlogging their love lives. Dating has moved out of the private realm, becoming more akin to a public trial. 

I can't help but wonder: are these platforms making dating safer, or just making us all more suspicious?

So, let’s take it to court (figuratively, not literally).

The case for

Lalalaletmeexplain, a relationships educator who’s spent years on the frontline of dating discourse, says the groups were built out of necessity. “They were intended to be safe spaces built around sisterhood and solidarity. They exist to stop men from hurting women,” she explains. “And in many ways, that’s exactly what they are.”

She’s seen posts that uncovered men who were secretly engaged while dating multiple other women, men accused of sexual assault, even one man who was caught trying to meet up with a 15-year-old. “These groups have genuinely protected people,” she says. “They’ve saved women from fraud, from abuse, from men who could have seriously harmed them.”

The groups are tightly moderated. Entry requires vetting, rules forbid screenshots of anything you see in the group, and members who breach confidentiality are banned. That structure creates a sense of safety, particularly for women who have been through painful dating experiences. It also fosters community. “You’ll see women giving each other incredible advice,” says Lalala. “They can remind women who feel unworthy for being single that actually, there’s nothing wrong with them. Sometimes these groups even make women feel happier to be single.”

And at their simplest, they save time. Instead of spending months figuring out if someone’s trustworthy, you can post a picture of a man and find out in hours if six other women are also dating him. In a world where dating often feels like a chore, that speed can be reassuring.

Men’s dating coach David Chambers sees that appeal. “We’ve lost the sense of close-knit community where you could vet people,” he says. “In the past you’d meet through friends, work, or at church. Someone could vouch for them. That’s mostly gone now. Everyone’s a stranger.” From his perspective, the justification behind these groups — protecting women — is completely valid. “Poor behaviour by men is a big part of why these groups exist. Anything that’s a good idea will be open to misuse as it grows, but for the most part, they serve a purpose.”

The case against

But noble intent doesn’t mean no collateral damage.

These groups aren’t moderated by trained professionals. A man might be labelled a “red flag” because he took too long to reply to a text or didn’t want a second date. Lalala says she’s seen “awful advice” and “unhinged questions” get posted. “People aren’t always consistent. Should this really be about minor quirks, or about serious red flags?”  Lalala adds: “One woman’s long-term ex was posted with comments about him being patronising. That wasn’t her truth. But it became the narrative.”

She’s also noticed racist and fetishising language, homophobia, and misogyny in some groups. “I’ve seen Black men discussed in really objectifying ways,” she says. And while the goal is safety, sometimes the effect is the opposite. 

Posts are subjective by design. They rely on the feelings and interpretations of the woman posting them, and people can be messy, emotional, or vengeful. “I’ve seen men falsely accused of being married, or of serious crimes,” says Lalala. Conflating poor dating etiquette with abusive behaviour could prove devastating when reputations are at stake. Media lawyer Mark Stephens says, “If someone is identifiable, posts could be defamatory. I’ve seen wealthy men use libel laws to silence allegations, even when they may be true. But for ordinary people, defending yourself is expensive. If false claims spread, the damage is done before you can fight back.”

Even if a man does consider suing for libel, invasion of privacy or harassment, it’s rarely worth the cost. “The law is a blunt instrument,” says Stephens. “It’s often better to tackle these things interpersonally. But that’s not easy when the accusations are public.”

Chambers points out that people post about behaviour like ghosting or poor communication without context. “Maybe that person was going through something. Maybe they were actually a good communicator who didn’t meet that individual’s expectations. It doesn’t account for people changing or growing. We want to outsource our judgment because we don’t trust our own. But judging character is something we need to learn to do ourselves.”

He warns these spaces can even encourage paranoia. “People who are more anxious can lack trust in their own decisions, often because they’ve been hurt. They seek out others’ opinions, but that can make dating feel more unsafe than it really is.”

So while the groups aim to protect women, they can also breed fear, misinformation, and mistrust.

Expert testimony

So what’s the path forward?

Stephens believes we need clearer lines between criminal behaviour and what he calls “moral opprobrium” — essentially, publicly shaming people for being a bad date. “There’s a big difference between criminality, where there’s public interest in disclosure, and just bad behaviour. The impact of conflating the two is disproportionate.”

Chambers agrees. “If I were dating, I wouldn’t be worried about being posted, I believe I behave with integrity,” he says. “But I could still be misrepresented. These platforms don’t account for growth or context. They villanise people in the worst version of someone else’s story.”

Even Lalala, who sees their value, thinks there need to be stronger guardrails. “If this is about sharing information about men, then the women contributing need to be vetted too. And it should be about serious red flags — not just someone being a bit flaky.”

The verdict

As a man, it’s hard not to feel conflicted about all this.

I’ve behaved badly at times when I’ve dated. I’ve gone through periods in my life when dating has felt overwhelming and I’ve decided to take a step back, without communicating well. If I’d been posted in one of these groups back then, it might have looked damning. But it wouldn’t have been the full story. People are complicated. We make mistakes. 

I’ve heard stories of women disclosing medical details on these groups, outing the fact the person they’re dating has an STI like Chlamydia, the sharing of which is deeply unethical. 

And yet, I can’t ignore that these groups exist because men cause real harm. Men can (and do)  cheat, lie, assault, and manipulate. Women deserve to protect themselves from that. 

What worries me is what happens next. When reputations are on trial in real time, judged by a jury of strangers, subjectivity gets treated as fact. Trust between men and women feels like it’s already incredibly fragile, and the presence of these groups is only ever going to create more of a disconnect.  

We should be creating systems to protect people from genuine harm, not platforms that invite us to treat every ex or bad experience as evidence. Dating will always carry risk, but if every misstep becomes a public trial in the court of public opinion, we move from accountability into paranoia — and ultimately that means men and women will pull back from dating altogether. 

Being a woman on the internet can be tough, but trying to find a genuine connection on a dating app? That can feel nearly impossible sometimes. Between the emboldened creeps, endless swiping, and surprisingly convincing AI profiles, it's enough to make you wonder if applying for Love Island is a more sane alternative. (Spoiler alert: it's not.)

The reality is, dating as a woman in 2025 comes with a unique set of challenges. There's the constant barrage of low-effort "hey" messages, the unsolicited dick pics, the men who are definitely married, and the underlying safety concerns men just don't have to think about. It’s enough to make you want to swear off dating and just get another cat (no judgment here).

But despite the challenges, dating apps do work. Connections happen every day, and a 2025 survey from SSRS found that nearly 39 percent of all U.S. adults have used dating apps. However, among current users, only 38 percent are women. Yes, that means the odds are a little stacked against you, but don't despair. The key isn't giving up and hoping for an old-fashioned meet-cute; it's finding the best dating apps for women that prioritize safety, respect, and actually help you filter out the nonsense.

Fortunately for you (and my sanity), navigating this mess is literally my job. As Mashable's resident dating expert for the last three years, I've put dozens of dating apps and websites to the test. From classics like eharmony to exciting newcomers like Pure, I tried them all. I did the swiping, matching, and blocking to figure out what actually works. So whether you want a serious relationship, a casual hookup, or just an app that puts you in control, I've found the options genuinely worth your time.

The dating apps I'd skip (and why)

You'll probably notice a few popular apps are missing from my list. That’s intentional. Part of my job is to filter out the platforms that aren't worth your time, money, or sanity —especially when safety is a top concern for women. An app doesn't get my recommendation just because it's well-known; it has to be effective and trustworthy. Here are a few I think women should skip.

• Plenty of Fish (POF): I know this one shows up on a lot of lists, but in my opinion, it's a low-tech dating app ghost town. POF launched way back in 2003, and the experience and interface feel dated. After testing it out, I (along with tons of Redditors) can confirm that it's filled with bots and scammers. I think your time is better spent elsewhere.

• "Hookup" sites (like BeNaughty, Fling, Kasual): You've probably seen ads for sites promising quick, no-strings-attached fun. Based on my research and countless user reviews, I'd advise women to steer clear. These platforms are notorious for being overrun with bots and having questionable billing practices. More importantly, the lack of verification and moderation often creates a sketchy environment where harassment and fake profiles are rampant.

Bumble is one of the most well-known dating apps out there. Founder and CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd started Bumble in 2014 after founding Tinder years prior. Bumble was, for many years, women's answer to Tinder. That's because it utilizes the same "swipe left or right" model to either pass or seek to match with someone else, but there is a key difference between the two: on Bumble, only women can message first ("make the first move") in heterosexual matches. 

Bumble has changed since 2014, though, and in case you're seeking answers on how Bumble works, look no further.

How does Bumble work?

In Bumble's early years, if you were a man matching with a woman, you had to wait until she messaged you first. But in April 2024, Bumble switched that up with Opening Moves, a way for anyone to message anyone else first. (In gay matches, or with nonbinary users, that was typically the case before this.)

With Opening Move, any user could respond to a prompt on someone's Bumble profile for matches to respond to. (If you think this is similar to Hinge, you're right. Recently, major dating apps have added features that other apps already have.)

Then, in October 2024, Bumble expanded Opening Moves so users could add up to three prompts for matches to reply.

Any user can set an Opening Move. 

How to use Bumble

First, you must create a profile on Bumble. Upload photos of yourself (Bumble recommends four to six), fill out your personal details — such as your age and gender — and set your dating intentions and filters for what you're looking for. The more information you give, the likelier it is that the algorithm will serve profiles that fit what you want.

Once you create your Bumble profile, you can find potential matches in the People tab, located squarely in the center of the navigation panel at the bottom of the screen. Swipe right if you want to match, left if you don't. Once you match with someone, you can go to the Chat tab to start the conversation. (If you have a Premium account, you can also check out who's liked you first.)

Then there's the Discover tab, which is to the left of People. Bumble highlights four profiles it thinks you'll really like (or at least, its algorithm does). You can either Like these profiles or tell Bumble they're not for you. This selection of four refreshes daily at 9 a.m.

Unlike some other dating apps, matches on Bumble expire after 24 hours of matching unless someone messages. Free users can "extend" one match per day, but you have to pay for the app for more chances to extend matches.

As mentioned above, you can also set an Opening Move to give a match a chance to message once you match. With Opening Moves, both people have to send a message, otherwise the chat will expire.

Is Bumble free?

Bumble does have a free tier, and you don't have to pay anything to match and message people. But if you want extra perks, you'll have to pay.

As of late 2025, Bumble has three paid tiers: Boost, Premium, and Premium+.

"We are committed to delivering the best possible value for our members with our products and as a result pricing can vary by location," a spokesperson said. "There are a number of different subscription options, you can do a week, a month, or even a year. Prices for Bumble Premium start from $32.99 for a week."

Here are the perks of each Bumble subscription, according to its blog.

Boost

• Unlimited swipes

• Rematch with expired connections

• Extend matches by 24 hours

• Backtrack accidental left swipes

• Spotlight your profile (temporarily bring it to the front of people's queues)

• Five SuperSwipes (Bumble's version of a SuperLike) each week 

Premium 

All the features of Boost, and:

• See who Liked you first

• Unlimited Advanced Filters

• Travel mode, so you can change your location when you go on a trip

• Incognito mode 

• One Spotlight per week

Premium+

All the benefits of Premium, plus (get it?):

• 10 SuperSwipes per week

• Two Compliments per week

• Two Spotlights per week

• Profile insights to see how your profile is performing 

From weight loss culture to hemlines to current pop music hits, Gen Z is holding an open online conversation about recession indicators. But is the generation also in the midst of a sex recession?

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released last year showed a decrease in the amount of sex that Gen Z has compared to previous generations. Various reports over the years on this trend have snowballed into the interpretation that this decline in sexual habits is due to Gen Z's overall feeling of sexphobia (or fear of sex). 

From being named a population of "virgins" to being called sexless, the cultural conversation around these statistics has pushed the idea that Gen Z may be a sexually repressed generation. But is that really true?

Sexual culture in a chronically online world 

While the decrease in sexual activity for Gen Z can't be boiled down to one factor, the role of the internet and social media may be a huge catalyst for this new wave of sexual behavior. With 81 percent of Gen Zers using social media daily, and half reporting that they spend three hours or more on it per day, internet usage has become a constant influence for most of Gen Z. This undeniably contributes to their general health, well-being, and understanding of sex. 

This, however, is not a black-and-white story. Whether Gen Z is having less sex, and the function of the internet within this trend, isn't inherently good or bad. We are witnessing how aspects of ourselves and our relationships are affected by the conditions under which we are forced to create our values — such as for romance and sex. While medically accurate, comprehensive sex education is the most reliable gateway to explore those values for young people, it's not accessible to everyone. (Only 19 states require medically accurate information on any sex ed topic as of 2025.) 

The internet is offering a new — yet more complicated — route.

When internet and social media use become ingrained in the everyday lives of young people, the landscape in which they are exploring sexuality moves from physical to digital. This shift creates not necessarily a generational attitude of sexphobia at large, but a sexual culture shaped by the digital environment where they're immersed. 

For some, that leads to more open and authentic sexual lives, while others internalize repressive sexual messaging. 

A different kind of sex education

Gen Zers having less sex could be a result of seeing more perspectives around sexuality that are expanding their ideas of what sex can and has to be. 

When algorithms show social media users wide perspectives of real-life people who engage with sexuality in all types of ways, we see how "online spaces have given Gen Z free sex education, which has helped them feel more confident in listening to their desires, which can lead to having less sex," says queer sex therapist Ava Shakib. 

For individuals who discover that they are asexual or have experienced pressure to have sex, online sexuality discussions can offer "education around 'compulsory sexuality,' which can help explain parts of their experience. Feeling like an outsider can really tempt us into doing things we don't want to do," Shakib notes, which may have led to people in older generations consenting to sex they didn't really want to have.

When social media is able to show content to young people that broadens their understanding of sexuality, Gen Z engaging in less partnered sex can also be an outcome of less traditional definitions of sex. Sex educator Danielle Bezalel, MPH, says, "They may be defining sex as fingering, oral, anal, licking, kissing, masturbating, etc. This definition expansion around sex should be applied to sex for all people, as it's more inclusive and has less of an emphasis on straight cis-hetero sex." 

Consequently, lower reported sexual activity for Gen Z may also be a result of a growing gap between mainstream definitions of sex (partnered penis-in-vagina sex) and Gen Z's more expansive view on what sex can be (solo sex, sexting, kissing). When Gen Z sex statistics focus on heternormative partnered sex, there is no account for sexual activity that is happening for broader ideas of what sex can be. 

However, this expansive view isn't always the case. Content on the "For You" pages of social media is not immune to replicating in-person oppressive messaging around sexuality. "Some youth get affirming content, while others are funneled toward abstinence-only or purity-culture narratives. And beyond the algorithm, patriarchal and misogynistic culture is always in the background, reinforcing shame, silence, and control over young people's bodies," says sex educator, Irma Garcia, CSE. 

While social media access has the ability to deconstruct conservative sexuality narratives for some users, it also has the power to reinforce them. These algorithms can strengthen external shame around engaging in sex — in those cases, ultimately discouraging some Gen Zers away from it.

With increased online censorship at the hands of lawmakers and tech giants blocking or banning any sexual content, even medically accurate sexual health information, young people often don't have access to it. The Trump administration's demand to remove "gender ideology" from federally funded content, as well as emergent age verification laws that can block young people from accessing essential sexual health information, reveal how governmental efforts prevent Gen Z from coming into contact with inclusive, comprehensive sex education material. Meta's history of reportedly shadowbanning sex educators, specifically Black and queer content creators, also limits the perspectives on sexuality that young people are being directed towards — supporting monolithic or even shameful narratives around sexuality. 

Heightened anxiety around sex

Dr. Laurie Mintz, author of Becoming Cliterate and sexpert at the sex toy brand LELO, adds that increased access to sexuality via digital platforms such as social media and dating apps may magnify the commodification of people through allowing users to swipe away from potential dating situations based on a perceived flaw or imperfection. These circumstances often reward whiteness, thinness, and cis-heteronormativity, comments Garcia, making relationships more fragile and redefining intimacy for Gen Z. 

When digital platforms become the main space for exploration, this can also create more opportunity for anxiety and hesitation that may lead to less sex, specifically around rejection and perfectionism. 

Bezalel discusses the rise in the number of Gen Zers who use AI to write break-up texts, noting "that number is only going to increase if we continue to teach young people that using AI and getting something 'right' is more valuable than trying your best, even if that means experiencing failure or rejection."

Time online for Gen Z may also translate to comparison through "the constant exposure to idealized bodies, idealized romance, or porn-shaped expectations can [also] heighten anxiety and make some young people hesitant to act on their desires," Garcia says. Therefore, making complicated situations like sex too anxiety-inducing to navigate. 

This hesitation around sex for Gen Z can be shaped by hearing the complexity of sex talked about so openly online. Women, especially, may encounter "misogynistic messages about sex (e.g., body-count) that turn them off to engaging sexually, especially with men," explains Mintz. 

For some, though, this may lead not to sexlessness, but rather a positive re-evaluation of wants around sex. Shakib says that, particularly for her femme clients, realizations around how sex can function as a means of validation may ignite alternate personal pleasure practices being prioritized. "My clients often find a fulfilling masturbation practice or find non-sexual activities, like dancing and reading, which fulfills their desire for pleasure."

Higher screen time, lower intimacy

More screen time for Gen Zers in comparison to other generations also means that in-person sexual experiences are getting pushed to the wayside. With most young people being raised in an era with social media and internet access being ingrained in everyday life, we can see how time spent on the internet might simply leave less time for sex. 

"Sunshine makes us more happy and horny! We're so often cooped up in our homes, at jobs, and in cars… and we're suddenly locked in a place where there isn't much mental or physical energy left to pursue horny endeavors," Shakib tells Mashable. Bezalel shares this sentiment in that time spent online is time "they could be spending with friends or a partner or a new hookup that they are likely spending alone."

Increased time on social media may also be intensifying a gap between interest in sex and engaging in it. Reports of Gen Z having less sex don't necessarily add up to sexphobia or a wide disinterest in sex as a whole; it could be an indicator of the internet creating a wedge between intrigue and action. 

"Young people can explore desire through fantasy, porn, or conversation without moving immediately into partnered sex. For some, that gap is protective. It lets them be curious without being pressured, and that can be a positive shift." Garcia explains. 

"Yes, access to sex ed online can contribute to hesitation or delay. But it isn't simply fear or repression," Garcia continues. "It's discernment, survival, disappointment with the options available, and the complexity of navigating sex in a world where information is more visible than before, but safe conditions are still not guaranteed."

"They may receive the message that sex isn't the norm for everybody and that they can choose for themselves," notes Mintz. 

When young people have access to quality, comprehensive sex education classes coupled with exposure to shame-free messaging around sexuality online, sexual agency can look like having sex, not having sex, waiting to have sex, or exploring just because. 

Tinder announced today that identity verification with facial recognition will now be required for all new users in the U.S. in the coming months.

A facial scan is already required for new Tinder users in California as of July this year. New users in Colombia, Canada, Australia, India, and several countries across Southeast Asia must also complete one according to the dating app's press release. Match Group, Tinder's parent company and dating app conglomerate, confirmed to Mashable that this requirement is rolling out to the rest of the U.S.

To complete the verification, called Face Check, users must take a video of themselves within the app. This is to ensure the person is real and their face matches their profile photos. It also scans whether the same face is used in multiple profiles. If verified, users receive a Photo Verified badge.

Video selfies are apparently deleted shortly after review, while one's face map and vector are encrypted and stored to verify new photos and detect fraud or multiple accounts.

Tinder has apparently seen an over 60 percent decrease in exposure to potential bad actors, including spam, scam, and fake accounts. (This figure is based on a random weighted sample of in-app profile views.) Early use of Face Check has also led to a more than 40 percent decrease in reports of bad actors.

Face Check is the next evolution of verification methods Tinder has introduced over the years, including photo verification in 2021, video verification in 2023, and ID checks last year.

Safety has been an ongoing, multi-pronged issue on dating apps. Earlier this year, an investigation into Match Group reported that it didn't take measures to properly ban harmful users nor alert law enforcement.

In September, two U.S. senators penned a letter to Tinder and Match Group's CEO, Spencer Rascoff, to urge him to take action against romance scammers on the apps.

Rascoff stated in the press release that Face Check reflects the company's "deepening commitment to responsible innovation that builds trust and supports a healthy, growing community."

"It's just the beginning of a broader effort to make Tinder the best and safest way to meet new people," Rascoff continued.

The widespread adoption of Face Check also comes months after the UK passed its age-verification law, compelling dating apps to install age checks. Age-verification laws are also sweeping the U.S., in an apparent effort to keep minors off of explicit sites. But experts predict they could fundamentally change our online lives beyond adult content. As evidenced by platforms like Spotify and YouTube, we may be required to submit more of our personal data to verify our age and use these services, despite them being "safe for work."

Match Group plans to roll this out to new Tinder users globally (where legally permitted), as well as to additional apps in 2026.

A new survey from British digital publication LADbible supports the notion that, for many young people, porn is their #1 sex educator.

In a survey conducted by LADbible and consumer insights company ResearchBods in September, 45 percent of around 5,300 18-29 year olds in the UK shared that porn was one of their main sources of information about sex. Seventy percent of Gen Z men reported that porn was their first exposure to sex. It's not surprising, then, that 77 percent want more resources to navigate porn and sex.

Sixty-three percent of respondents said they saw porn before they were 16, and five percent before 10. Half of those people who watched before 10 (so, less than three percent) became daily viewers.

The survey release is in conjunction with the launch of For F*ck's Sake Productions, an in-house digital studio that will produce sex education content for young adults. LADbible partnered with musician and actor Jordan Stephens, sex education charity Fumble, men's health charity Movember, and self-guided therapy program Pivotal Recovery.

The latter, Pivotal Recovery, references "porn addiction" on its website, which isn't recognized by the latest Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). A 2015 article in the journal Psychology of Addictive Behaviors suggested that perceived porn addiction was psychologically distressing, rather than the porn use itself. Some of the recent LADbible survey findings suggest this as well: One in two men worry they consume too much porn, and 34 percent feel guilty after watching porn.

"We know porn is controversial. It makes headlines, half of us use it as sex education, and we're all comparing ourselves to what we see on those screens," Stephens said in the press release. He continued that he and his partners are on a "mission to get honest about porn."

Over three quarters (77 percent) of respondents watch porn regularly, while 12 percent reported to have never seen it.

This partnership between LADbible and others will also asking the UK government to "take action" about the impacts of porn on young adults, such as urging the government to consider mandated sex and relationships education by specialists, not teachers, for 16-18 year olds, and additional support for young people such as a national helpline or online hub for information about these topics.

According to the UK's government website, relationships and sex education became mandatory for all secondary school students in 2020.

"Porn can be a fun way for people to explore their sexuality, but it can become a problem when mainstream porn (typically free videos showing more hardcore and violent content) forms an idea of what real-life sexual intimacy should look like," CEO of Fumble, Lucy Whitehouse, said in the press release. "This is what we need to address — we need to speak about what's real, and what isn't — and we need to support young people as they explore their sexuality safely."

If you're on dating apps or social media, you're probably familiar with "ENM," or ethical non-monogamy, aka consensual non-monogamy (CNM), aka plain ol' non-monogamy. The umbrella term — meaning, anything other than monogamy — has seemingly taken over the online dating sphere as of late. The term "ethical non-monogamy" has seen a 213 percent spike in searches in the last year alone.

But what actually is consensual non-monogamy, and what are the pluses and minuses of the relationship style? Mashable spoke to three experts in the space to find out.

What is an 'ENM' relationship?

"ENM" stands for "ethical non-monogamy," and those in an ENM relationship are non-monogamous. What flavor of non-monogamy they practice, however, isn't really explained by the term. And while the term "ethical non-monogamy" has entered our cultural lexicon, experts tend to favor the terms "consensual non-monogamy" or simply "non-monogamy."

"What counts as ethical for one person may not count as ethical for the other person," explained relationship coach Dedeker Winston, co-host of the Multiamory podcast and co-author of Multiamory: Essential Tools for Modern Relationships. The term she uses is consensual non-monogamy, as that's the standardized research term.

"Ideally, if we're saying non-monogamy, it should be ethical and consensual, built into it," said marriage and family therapist and host of the Sluts & Scholars podcast, Nicoletta Heidegger. "Otherwise, it would be cheating."

What is consensual non-monogamy?

Consensual non-monogamy is, in itself, an umbrella term. It's "the practice of having multiple relationships that may either be sexual or romantic," Winston said, "having those relationships concurrently and with the full knowledge and consent of everyone involved." 

For relationship coach and co-host of the Curious Fox podcast, Effy Blue, it's essentially the opposite of monogamy. 

What is a polyamorous relationship?

Within the broadness of non-monogamy are the variations in which people practice it. They may be polyamorous, literally meaning "many love," and have romantic and sexual connections with multiple people. Polyamory can also be seen as an umbrella term, with many ways of operating underneath it.

What is an open relationship?

Non-monogamous people may be into swinging — usually couples swapping partners — or cuckolding, which is watching your partner getting it on with someone else. They may have an open relationship, which is also a pretty broad term but usually means a primary romantic connection and other sexual connections.

"Everything from 'we're mostly monogamous 364 days out of the year, but then once a year we have this like wild drunken threesome'" can fall under non-monogamy, said Winston. That may fall under "monogamish," a term coined by sex writer and podcaster Dan Savage, to mean mostly monogamous.

In terms of non-monogamy's rising popularity, Winston felt a shift in 2016, the year Trump was elected president. "A lot of structures were being questioned in that year," she said, including monogamy. She started noticing more people coming out that they practice non-monogamy, or putting such in their Instagram bios. 

Then, several years later, COVID forced us into a literal or figurative existential crisis. People may have felt a sense that if there's a part of themselves they're repressing, now's the time to express it, Winston continued. 

Not to mention that pop culture has also upped its representation of non-monogamy — such as Netflix's Easy and celebrities (like Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith) opening up about it, too. Dating apps have taken notice, too, with Hinge and Tinder adding non-monogamous label options.

Obstacles in non-monogamous relationships 

As with any style of relationships, there are struggles to overcome. With non-monogamy, these struggles can have added layers of complexity, as more than one person is in the mix. 

Jealousy may be at the top of people's minds when considering non-monogamy. It's an emotion that comes up in different facets of our lives — like with our career, and certainly in relationships. How we're socialized around this emotion is funny, Winston said, because in contexts aside from romantic relationships, jealousy is seen as good. For example: If you're jealous of a co-worker for receiving a promotion, that jealousy is supposed to motivate you.

"But when it comes to romantic jealousy, the story is more like [jealousy is] a completely unacceptable emotion to feel," Winston said, and if you're in a situation where you feel jealousy, it's a major red flag.

It's not that people who prefer non-monogamy don't get jealous — it's that they recognize it's a typical feeling to experience and work through it by looking inward and being honest with their partner(s).

"There needs to be a willingness and…support tools and systems in place," Heidegger said. Before jumping into non-monogamy, ask yourself (and your partner if you're already coupled): how do we deal with tough feelings when they come up?

Communication, then, is paramount in non-monogamous relationships (just like it is in monogamous ones). But beyond communication, you need to be willing to be vulnerable and honest, Winston said, and if that's not there, communication won't be successful.

Blue warned that there is such a thing as too much communication. One pitfall she sees is one partner in a couple becoming hyper-focused on non-monogamy, so much so that it becomes the only thing they want to talk about. Don't let this happen; remember to nurture other aspects of your relationship.

Bandwidth and time management are other issues Blue sees. Couples who are looking to open for the first time may have lots of commitments — like work and children — and they need to fit in their new, other relationships within their already busy lives. Be honest with yourself about how much time you have to dedicate to new connections, and be direct with these people about your availability to your new partner. 

Relational traumas and attachment issues may rise to the surface as well. It is possible for relationships — monogamous or non-monogamous — to be healing and corrective, but if it's not done in an intentional way, they can actually be unintentionally harmful, Heidegger said. If you have a history of relational trauma, seek a therapist to work through these issues with you.

Then there's the exhaustive obstacle of going against the grain. Society is so geared towards cis, heterosexual monogamy that there's pressure to conform to these ideals. "We're all swimming against the current," said Winston. When we have community and feel supported, it's easier to live in a non-normative way, but it can still be tiring.

Non-monogamy "can be hard, and there's an extra layer of difficulty layered on top of it, because of the fact that the water that we swim in doesn't really support us inherently," Winston said.

Benefits of non-monogamous relationships

Given the above, Heidegger said non-monogamy has the potential to help you work through relational issues and be healing in ways you didn't think were possible. It's also an opportunity to tune into what you want and explore your desires more openly. "It allows people to have more expansive love, more expansive pleasure, [and] to maybe have less shame about their needs and desires," she said. 

Non-monogamy also encourages autonomy. You can get clear about what you really want, instead of what society deems acceptable for you to want. 

"One major upside that I see is that… non-monogamy can give us a chance to be partnered with one partner or multiple partners, and yet also still maintain a sense of independent identity and independent interests," Winston said. 

Blue sees the primary benefit as finding a relationship design that you can thrive in. If you found something that works for you more than monogamy, that's a plus. Another she mentioned is the infusion of new relationship energy — even in longtime connections. You're embarking on a new adventure with your partner, and it can be exciting for both of you.

Heidegger echoed this. Since non-monogamy leads to people experiencing something new, it can bring about a freshness and sense of adventure to your relationships. 

If you're interested in becoming non-monogamous, you're already starting off on the right foot: research. Next, take a look at our guide on how to get started with non-monogamy to learn more about how to open your relationship gently and intentionally.

This article was originally published in 2023 and updated in 2025.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

In a world where online dating and casual hookups have become the norm, dating can still feel exhausting. Sometimes, just the thought of putting on proper clothes, coming up with witty conversation starters, and commuting to the actual meetup spot can be tiring.

No matter what kind of encounter you plan, when it comes to dating, there'll always be some sort of physical effort required. The good news? There is a loophole: Sexting.

What is sexting?

Sexting is the art of sending sexually explicit photos or messages to one or more people via text. Thanks to its recent rise in popularity, there are now apps for sexting and new sexting features in apps that are otherwise for dating in person.

What do you need to know about sexting?

Whether you're interested in giving sexting a try or you're a seasoned pro, there are a few things to keep in mind when downloading and using a new dating app to sext. Sure, there are fewer inhibitions when scoring a new sexting partner when compared to finding a long-term lover, but there are rules you should follow in order for all parties to feel at ease. Here are three big ones:

• Mutual respect — Assess the situation and know your audience. Usually, it doesn't take much more than a few pre-sext texts (or pre-sexts) to gauge whether or not someone is interested in doing the cyber-dirty with you. Take the time to figure that out before you lead with something raunchy and uncalled-for. AKA, don't just start throwing dick pics at people left and right if they didn't ask.

• Mutual trust — Be respectful: Privacy is sacred. The internet has the scary ability to make fleeting moments very permanent. If someone asks you to keep something to yourself, do it. While sexting can be light and fun, it also requires a serious level of trust. If you betray that trust, you're ruining it for everybody.

• Privacy — No app can completely protect your privacy for you — that's your job. Though there are apps that have certain features that are designed to protect your identity/content, they don't rule out all scenarios. For example, someone doesn't need to take a screenshot to capture a picture you send. They could easily use another phone or device to snap or record your photos and/or videos. You should always keep this in mind before sending anything that could be compromising, and do your best to make sure you trust the person who's receiving your messages.

Keep these points in mind when engaging in NSFW messaging.

Should you engage in sexting?

Real-life dating is obviously the best way to get to know somebody long-term, especially if you're looking for any kind of serious, in-person relationship. And real sex will always be better than sexting. However, sexting is an alternative that may help you out in ways you didn't even think about.

• Convenience — Whether you plan to wine and dine on your date or just meet to hook up, it always requires some extra effort. For those with super hectic schedules or those who just don't have room in their life (for whatever reason) for a steady in-person relationship, sexting is practically a saving grace. After all, your sex drive doesn't go away just because you're busy. Sexting allows you to take care of your sexual needs without putting yourself out.

• Exploring trust and intimacy — Getting comfortable with another person in close quarters doesn’t always come naturally for everyone — but opting for sexting gives way to a new level of exploration in terms of intimacy and trust. You don’t ever have to meet the person behind the screen if you don’t want to, but being able to practice feeling vulnerable without any strings attached can be a great lesson in being more open.

• Freedom — As is the case with most behind-the-screen activities, with sexting, you can let go of your inhibitions and get comfortable exploring your sexual side. Knowing there's a certain barrier between you and the other person may allow you to experiment with language and ideas that you wouldn't otherwise explore in person.

• Fun — A little honesty, please. A night of sexting is always going to be a lot more fun than endlessly swiping right on a dating app and starting the same conversation over and over. Having the option of opening an app on your phone and engaging in a little virtual foreplay offers instant gratification and (almost) guaranteed pleasure.

• Safety — We've touched on the reasons why sexting might not be completely safe in terms of privacy, but to its credit, sexting offers an element of safety that in-person meetings don't. Sexting allows you to interact with both people you know and total strangers without putting yourself in dangerous or unwanted physical situations. Your experience should always be what you want it to be, and with sexting, if it's not going in the direction you want, it's just a matter of closing an app.

The benefits are clear for all to see, so not give it a try?

What makes an app good for sexting?

You'll want to look for certain features in an app if you're planning on sexting:

• Ease of use — You don’t want to find yourself in a hot and steamy conversation trying to figure out how to attach an image or a voice note. When it comes to sexting, the more user-friendly the platform is, the better. You’ll want something that’s efficient and fast.

• Privacy features — What happens in a sexting app doesn’t always stay in a sexting app; there are no guarantees that your conversations or selfies won’t wind up a screenshot on someone’s phone. That said, certain apps include instant self-destruction features that delete photos and conversations after a certain amount of time.

• Safety — If you’re looking for a night of no-strings-attached fun online, it doesn’t really matter if the person on the other end of your conversation has been verified — but if you do want to ensure you’re not being catfished or chatting with a bot, consider using an app that links social media or verifies users.

• Subscription pricing versus free features — How much are you willing to pay for bells and whistles? There are several free apps out there, but if you're looking for something a little fancier, you can pay a few pounds a month for premium features.

With these features in mind, you should be ready to select an app and start sexting. You've got this.

What is the best app for sexting?

Since sexting, by nature, comes with a lot of factors to consider (consent and privacy, for example), we've picked out the best sexting apps to get you off — to a good start, that is. We've tried to line up something for everyone, so check out these options, and pick your favourite.

These are the best sexting apps in 2025.

Yesterday, Kim Kardashian's clothing brand SKIMS announced its latest product on Instagram: faux hair panties. "The Ultimate Bush." Thongs that feature a patch on the front that resembles pubic hair — available in several colors!

"Your carpet can be whatever color you want," declared a model in SKIMS' Instagram video. "Match, don't match, or switch it up mid-day."

Similar to the SKIMS nipple bra that debuted two years ago, these tongue-in-cheek products seemingly highlight parts of women's bodies that are traditionally kept hidden. They also showcase the hypocrisy of Instagram's policies.

The great shadowbanning

For years, sex workers — as well as LGBTQ creators, sex educators, activists, and others — have said that their accounts have been disabled, banned, or shadowbanned (unable to be found via Search or Explore) on Instagram, despite posting content that fits within the platform's community guidelines. 

This is something a variety of creators have been battling on the platform since 2019, Dr. Carolina Are, platform governance researcher, content creator, and then innovation fellow at Northumbria University's Center for Digital Citizens, told Mashable back in 2023. 

Many of these creators have claimed that Instagram uses rules against nudity and sexual solicitation against them, even if their posts don't contain these things. 

The problem still persists. Adult performer and activist, Siri Dahl, told Mashable back in June, when discussing censorship on the internet, that she's on her eighth Instagram account and the platform is becoming more strict. It even extends to link services like Linktree (which has booted sex workers in the past) and GetAllMyLinks. Dahl claimed that links adult creators like herself have in their bio are starting to get "blacklisted" by the platform. (Instagram didn't respond to Mashable's request for comment at the time.)

Meta, Instagram's parent company, which also owns Facebook and WhatsApp, has rejected period care ads for being adult or political, Mashable reported in 2023. A Meta spokesperson told Mashable at the time that advertisers can run ads promoting sexual health, wellness, and reproductive products and services — but as a global company, it needs to account for the diverse range of people who see ads to avoid potential negative experiences. Meta's Adult Products or Services Ads Policy restricts these ads — like saying they must focus on health and medical efficacy. Ads can't promote products that focus on arousal.

Yet, SKIMS can post about its pubic hair underwear without penalty.

Ultimate Bush? Ultimate Hypocrisy 

On Tuesday, SKIMS shared three videos advertising The Ultimate Bush to its Instagram feed and stories. They were shot in vintage style, featuring 1970s game show aesthetics and hairstyles. (It's important to note that these are not sponsored posts or paid advertisements, as the ads above were. SKIMS was merely posting freely to Instagram to promote its product.)

Instagram didn't ban, restrict, or shadowban SKIMS for this, nor did it for their nipple bra posts. Instagram also hasn't done so to the Kardashians, despite what they wear in their Instagram posts.

But if a small creator — say, an OnlyFans model — posted themselves in The Ultimate Bush, there's a high chance their post would be restricted. Instagram could claim that the post counted as sexual solicitation or nudity.

Double standards in social media moderation have been studied. Back in 2023, researcher and founder of content moderation service Reliabl, Annie Brown, told Mashable that while Instagram supposedly allows for artistic representations of nudity, many users observe that larger accounts — such as those of the Kardashians — can get away with it, while non-celebrities are at risk of having their accounts hidden from non-followers.

As of this writing, every $32 pair of SKIMS' Faux Hair Micro String Thong is on backorder, suggesting that the videos were widely seen. This simply wouldn't be the case with smaller creators.

Mashable has reached out to SKIMS and Instagram for comment. 

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

In this age of on-demand everything, hookup apps are the go-to for casual dating. If we can stream movies (thank you, Netflix) and order a takeaway with a few quick taps, why shouldn't we be able to find a potential partner the same way?

Sometimes all you want is some fun, and fortunately there's an app for that.

How do you find a hookup?

It's still possible to find a connection in the real world. Meeting in bars, clubs, parks, and other real-life locations still happens, whether you believe it or not. You're simply shortening your odds by subscribing to a dating site.

Dating sites and sex apps allow you to get your information out there to a massive network of like-minded individuals. Plus, you can save a lot of time, energy, and cash by testing out a potential relationship on an app before meeting up. We know that some dating apps can be expensive, but just think about all those wasted coffees you could avoid by chatting through an app first.

Using dating apps and sites is also a whole lot less intimidating than meeting someone face to face. If you find the idea of meeting people slightly terrifying, these apps can help you dip your toe into the world of dating from the comfort of your own home.

Should you use free dating apps?

The good news is that there are a lot of free dating sites and apps out there, and the likes of Tinder and Hinge are popular options with massive networks of users. Plus, most of the biggest and best dating sites have free versions with limitations on certain features. So yes, you can easily enter the online dating game without spending anything. However, as with most things in life, you get what you pay for with dating apps. And sometimes free apps just don't cut it.

For the best experience with the greatest possibility of finding exactly what you're looking for, you are going to have to cough up some cash. We're sorry to break it to you, but the best dating sites don't come cheap. It all comes down to access to advanced and premium features. You can still find a hookup with a free app, but if you're looking for compatibility tests, chat rooms, videos, and a greater level of control, we recommend upgrading.

What makes an app good for hooking up?

There's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to hookup apps. What works for your friends might not work for you. Your best bet is to download a handful of options and see which one clicks with your vibe.

Skip the apps that are all about romance and happily ever afters (we're looking at you, eharmony). Instead, keep an eye out for apps that get straight to the point. The best hookup apps make chatting quick and easy (messaging, video calls, all that good stuff), and even the free ones should have features like profile verification to help keep you safe.

If you really want to pay for a premium membership, that's up to you. But we recommend starting with the free versions of cult faves like Tinder, Grindr, and Hinge. These popular dating apps give you just enough functionality to connect with potential partners for casual encounters — all without spending anything.

What is the best sex and dating app for hooking up?

The good news is that there are absolutely loads of dating sites and sex apps out there for every type of dater and dating situation. The problem with this wealth of options is that deciding on the right site for you can be difficult. This is where we can help.

Whether you're looking to have a one-night stand, exchange nudes with strangers, or have some phone sex before you doze off, we've rounded up the most reliable hookup apps for every type of single. You can download them via Google Play or the App Store and start swiping in minutes.

These are the best hookup sites and apps in 2025.

Unfortunately, just like everything else, our love lives are at the mercy of algorithms. That's given rise to a cottage industry of dating coaches, forums, and self-proclaimed pickup artists all claiming to know the secret to "hacking dating app algorithms" and finding your soulmate — or at least clearing the goblins and trolls out of your queue.

Hacks for Hinge (and other dating apps) have exploded in popularity as people look for ways to game the app's algorithm to get better matches, and maybe even find a real connection. But some of the so-called tricks circulating right now are… well, kind of dumb.

Case in point: the viral "Hinge hack" for women recently covered by The Cut that promises to free hot men from "Rose Jail." (More on what that is below.) The method — credited to LA influencer and lawyer Eve Tilley-Coulson — is supposed to push attractive matches from Hinge's Standouts section into your Discover feed, where you'll see them more often.

What is the viral Hinge hack?

For the uninitiated, Standouts is a feature that Hinge introduced in 2020, curating a small selection of your "best potential matches" and refreshing every 24 hours. To like someone there, you need to use a Rose (Hinge's version of a Super Like). You get one free Rose every Sunday, or you can buy extras for $3.99 each. Users call it "Rose Jail" because you only have one chance per week to like one of the best options for you (according to Hinge's algorithm), or else you have to fork up cash.

However, the profiles in Standouts are grabbed from the same pool as the usual Discover feed, so users curated for the former on Monday may appear in the latter on Tuesday after the refresh.

Now, the hack itself is… complicated, to say the least. According to Tilley-Coulson, in a three-part series on TikTok, you have to delete your account and remake it exactly at noon on Sunday. Once you've rebuilt your profile with photos and prompts, you buy a $29.99 Superboost, which keeps your profile highly visible for 24 hours. Then, this is key: you don't touch the app during that time. For the next week, you reject everyone in both your Standouts and regular feed (it's unclear whether this also means people who've already liked you). Supposedly, this shows the app that you're active but picky, forcing it to serve you better matches.

And just like that — if the TikTok theory is to be believed — you'll be swimming in hot men.

"Hinge is a business. It thus uses all the data you give it about your 'type,' 'patterns' etc. to hide those individuals behind a paywall," Tilley-Coulson told Mashable over email. "Thus, the less information you give Hinge, the more control you have over the individuals you see and are able to match with."

"Hinge limits the people you see and can like without paying...so there is no success without paying something," Tilley-Coulson stated.

A Hinge spokesperson told Mashable that the app prioritizes quality over quantity, saying Hinge aims "for users to experience fewer, but more meaningful, potential matches that lead to real dates."

"With Hinge's algorithm, we leverage deep learning to understand daters on a deeper level and deliver more thoughtful recommendations," the spokesperson continued. "We show you who you are most likely to match with based on predicting mutual interest in each other." Recommendations are based on factors such as who meets your preferences, who meets your "dealbreakers" (preferences that are non-negotiable), and profiles that you like, skip, or match.

Don't waste $30 on this 'hack'

Wanting to game the algorithm to make an already miserable experience slightly better is completely understandable. In recent years, dating apps have become notorious for annoying users into buying in-app purchases. And if the goal here is simply to get a better batch of potential matches, you're better off just paying for one of Hinge's premium tiers — Hinge+ at $19.99 or HingeX at $24.99 for a week. At least then you get unlimited likes and access to all the filters (height, politics, education level, the works). If your goal is to rack up likes, you don't need to spend $30 on a Superboost and waste a week pretending to be ultra-selective.

Having written about dating app "hacks" before — and, embarrassingly, having been on and off these apps for the last decade (I can even be found on Tinder.com's homepage) — I can confidently say you don't need to waste your money trying gimmicks like this. At least when straight guys were "gaymaxxing" the algorithm (pretending to be gay) to get more likes, they didn't have to pay to look like tools.

Even buying a boost and not swiping, so the app can't gauge your preferences, is based on old Tinder hacks from years past.

Hinge's algorithm (and Tinder's and Bumble's, for that matter) isn't some impenetrable black box. A mix of factors determines how you're ranked in other people's queues.

It's well-known that new accounts with fresh numbers on new devices perform better, thanks to the "new user boost" (formerly known as the "noob boost") that these apps provide to hook you early. Thus, part of the hack involves creating a new account to receive the "bump" — and doing so on Sunday at noon, as data shows that activity peaks late in the weekend.

But that effect fades quickly — especially if you reuse an old number or device tied to a deleted account. The apps also use facial recognition to detect repeat users and are heavily influenced by location. From personal experience, I've found that creating an account in a new city nets far more likes than recreating one in a place I've lived before (and yes, I delete and remake my accounts often).

The origin of this hack stems from a common misunderstanding about how Hinge ranks user "attractiveness." The theory borrows from Tinder's old chess-style rating system — the idea that the more likes you get, the higher your internal score climbs, and the more the algorithm pairs you with other high scorers. That's why this hack focuses so heavily on maximizing likes: the logic goes that if the app sees you as more "desirable," it'll start freeing the hot guys from Rose Jail and dropping them into your regular queue.

That rating system has long been "old news," however, according to Tinder. Hinge's algorithm is based on a system of finding optimal pairs that money can't buy (like organ donations), its director of relationship science, Logan Ury, revealed in 2020. An example is, if you have 10 men and 10 women, and you ask one group to rank their top choices, try to match with their first choice. If they get rejected, move to their second choice, and so on, until no one wants to match anymore.

None of the hack's elements is revolutionary, and it also shouldn't cost you money. Could you argue that these dating apps are deliberately blocking your blessings, hiding their so-called "high-value" users to tank your self-esteem and push you toward paid boosts and subscriptions? Yeah, probably. Many people do so online. Are these hacks, for both men and women, just the end result of a situationship culture that's created a paradox of choice? Also, yeah, probably.

But everyone's experience on a dating app is different. Attractiveness is subjective, and what works for one person won't necessarily work for another. And as The Cut rightly points out, even for the women this hack supposedly "worked" for, getting to (and beyond) the first date is the real challenge. One that no $30 Super Boost is ever going to solve.

This article reflects the opinion of the writer.

UPDATE: Oct. 15, 2025, 4:44 p.m. EDT This article has been updated with comments from Tilley-Coulson.

I don’t know when it started, because it definitely wasn’t always like this, but Grindr has a serious problem. You can’t do a single damn thing on the app without being smacked in the face with an ad, and it’s absolute hell.

Does it really cost a minimum of five long seconds (in some cases, many, many more) to get a little bit of action in 2025? Yes, it does. But, it doesn’t have to… if you’re willing to let the Grindr gods take a peek into your wallet. 

For $14.99 — a steep price for a weekly app subscription, I have to say — users can get rid of every unwanted Grindr ad for one whole week. On top of that, you’ll unlock access to 600 additional profiles in your area, enjoy unlimited album views without the hassle of them vanishing after a few hours, send as many expiring photos and albums as you like, and tons more.

But, for a little over $2 a day, is paying for Grindr XTRA for the week really worth the money, especially when there are so many other dating apps? Prior to testing the feature for myself, I was sure I’d say no. But the answer isn’t as black and white as you’d think.

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What Is Grindr XTRA?

Grindr XTRA is basically Grindr’s way of saying, “We know you’re desperate, so how about you pay us to make this hellscape slightly less miserable?” What do you get in return for coughing up the cash? First, sweet, sweet freedom from those endless ads clogging every corner of the app, which is a major bonus. It makes the app actually, dare I say, usable. This is the most beneficial aspect of getting Grindr XTRA, full stop. 

You’ll also get the ability to create multiple albums, mark recently chatted people (so you don’t accidentally message the same guy twice), and the ability to send three expiring photos each day. 

Multiple albums are a nice perk, though their usefulness feels a little limited to me. Since Grindr only allows one video per album, the feature really only shines if you’re juggling lots of photos or sending different sets to different people.

As for recently marked profiles, this one’s pretty killer. It saves you from déjà vu (and from coming across as desperate), like when you think, “Oh, this torso pic looks really hot,” click over for a quick “Hello,” and then realize you definitely messaged the same guy at 3 a.m. a couple of weekends ago. And, personally, when it comes to expiring albums, I don’t have much of a use for ‘em. I’m an out gay man, and I don’t really care who sees my dick anymore. Every Chicago gay on Grindr already has. It’s whatever. But, if you’re the type that likes to keep your nudes sensitive, this is a massive step up for privacy. You’ll never have to worry again about whether or not some rando you chatted with once saved your nudes to a private album in their smartphone.

Like I mentioned, you’ll also have a bigger grid of guys to scroll through (an absolutely incredible perk), a golden ticket to the global Explore feature (useless unless you’re planning to go on a Dublin trip next month and/or prefer long-distance sexting), and a few shiny extras like read receipts (so you know exactly who’s ignoring you) and saved phrases (so you don’t have to type what you’re into 600 times over).

Another handy feature is the ability to filter profiles more effectively based on what you’re looking for. The free version of Grindr doesn’t let you use filters nearly as well as it once did. 

Back in the day (yes, I’ve been single long enough to remember), you could set an age range, pick a tribe (jocks, bears, twinks, etc.), select a “looking for” category (hookups, relationships, dates, and so on), add tags (bondage, anon, couples, whatever) to actually narrow in on your ideal person. The results would still show just as many profiles as you’d see without filters at all. 

Now? The free version only spits out three to six profiles when you try to get specific. With Grindr XTRA, you’ll see the same full range of profiles whether you’re using filters or not. This is great if you’re interested in something super specific, like bottom non-binary bear trade who is into fisting (or ff, if you know, you know) and tentacles.

How Much Is Grindr XTRA?

Grindr XTRA is currently available under four price points, which may vary by location:

• One week: $14.99

• One month: $22.99 (savings of 64%)

• Three months: $49.99 (savings of 74%)

• Twelve months: $149.99 (savings of 80%)

What’s the Difference Between Grindr XTRA and Grindr Unlimited?

Because of course, Grindr XTRA isn’t the only paid Grindr subscription the app offers. Go figure. Grindr Unlimited is the cream of the crop when it comes to Grindr, offering every single aspect of what you’d get with Grindr XTRA, plus everything else in the kitchen sink. You’ll have the ability to see every single profile that has viewed you, unsend messages after post-nut clarity, browse the grid without being seen in incognito mode, see when someone is typing a message, and, of course, see unlimited profiles using unlimited filters. 

The catch? It starts at $9.99 for one day. For a full month, though, that would set you back $22.99, with savings of 64% total. Three months is $49.99 with a savings of 74%, and 12 months is $149.99 with a savings of 80%. We don’t know what kind of money you’re working with, but if you can afford to pay for your hookup apps and you’re that horny, you do you, baby.

Is paying for Grindr worth it?

Here’s where things get tough: I honestly do not know how to answer this question for you. My wallet and brain both tell me no, but, the user experience Grindr XTRA has to offer? It’s incomprehensibly good. And I can’t help but feel like there’s a little conspiracy behind why that is.

Unpaid-for-Grindr is a borderline unusable app in 2025, but it does technically work just fine for free users. It’s not that you need to pay for Grindr to use it effectively. The problems with using Grindr for free in 2025 are the following:

• Ads are overwhelming

• The app crashes constantly

• Messages slip through the cracks

• The search function is almost useless

I’ve noticed all of these issues popping up over the past few years at different points in time, and I’m hardly the only one. I fear Grindr did this on purpose — make the app a true piece of shit so we’re left with no other option but to purchase a week-long Grindr XTRA subscription in our horniest of moments, realize once again how incredible the app can be, and then, poof, the week is over. Your only choice? Re-up for another week of Grindr XTRA or suffer through all of the ads once again. It’s kind of like a drug for insufferably horny gay men like myself.

But, again, is Grindr XTRA worth it? While I don't usually say this, I could go both ways. Sometimes, yes, depending on the circumstances. Are you touring a new city alone for a week and want your whole cake and to eat it, too? Then, sure — pay for a week-long Grindr XTRA subscription for a little over $2 a day. Go buck wild on your Berlin trip. Are you home on your couch when Pornhub is just a few clicks away in your Safari app? Maybe don’t pay for Grindr XTRA this time. Let it be a little treat every once in a while. Everybody deserves a little treat every once in a while.

So, should I get Grindr XTRA?

I think that if you’re here and you read everything I had to say about Grindr XTRA, you’ll realize it absolutely has its perks, with my personal two favorites being absolutely zero ads and the ability to filter out the wazoo. But, once upon a time, these weren’t “perks”. This was just how gay dating apps were supposed to function. If Grindr would actually fix the unpaid user experience instead of squeezing every penny out of the gay community, we could go back to using Grindr the way the gay gods intended. No one should have to cough up cash just to make a hookup app function the way it’s supposed to. Just some food for thought.

But, here’s the hard truth we all have to swallow: I bought Grindr XTRA, and my experience was nothing less than perfect. 

In the future, I do hope the Grindr experience goes back to the way it used to be, but that seems unlikely. So, here’s my verdict: When you take that solo trip to Rome, New York City, or Ibiza, pay for Grindr XTRA for a week, and only a week. You’ll hate yourself for paying, but you’ll hate Grindr even more if you don’t.

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Hinge, the dating app "designed to be deleted," has risen in popularity in recent years. Mashable recently reported that in the second quarter of 2025, revenue and paid users of the app had increased, while Tinder's declined. Both are owned by the conglomerate Match Group, but it seems that daters these days are leaning towards Hinge.

As such, they might have questions about how Hinge works. Mashable has the answers.

How many likes do you get on Hinge?

Free users are able to send seven likes a day, the app confirmed to Mashable. It's also free to send a comment to someone you're interested in while you're "liking," and seeing everyone who sends you a like (which most apps make you pay for). 

Free Hinge members can also set specific preferences, such as location, age range, distance, and religion.

Does Hinge have read receipts?

Some apps, like Instagram, have read receipts on private messages, meaning you will know when the person you're chatting with reads the message. You might be afraid of being left on read — or leaving someone else on read. 

But in Hinge's case, you don't have to worry. Hinge confirmed that the app doesn't have read receipts, so you can glance at your match's latest DM in peace, and message back when you're ready.

While daters on Hinge cannot send photos or videos directly to their matches, they can send voice notes.

What does a Hinge Boost do?

A Hinge Boost makes a user's profile more visible to potential matches for one hour, while a Superboost does so for 24 hours. 

"Think of it as a way to speed up the process; because while good things take time, sometimes a little extra visibility helps," Hinge's Help Center states.

The prices of Boost and Superboost are dynamic and depend on one's location and other factors. 

Other users won't know you Boosted yourself, and the app will notify you when the Boost period is over and will give you a summary of the impact. 

How do you change your gender on Hinge?

You can change both your gender and sexuality on Hinge. In the app, tap the Photo icon on the far right of the navigation bar. Tap the Pencil icon, scroll down and tap Gender.

You can choose Man, Woman, or Nonbinary, and within those options choose a gender identity — options include gender fluid, genderqueer, and intersex.

To change your sexuality on the app, tap the Pencil icon and scroll to Sexuality under Identity. Choose an option from the list.

You can choose whether you want your gender and/or sexuality displayed on your profile. (Check or uncheck "Visible on Profile.")

Who am I excluded from on Hinge?

When Hinge daters select "prefer not to say" for details like family plans, dating intentions, or drinking habits, they're excluded from being seen by people who've set dealbreakers around those compatibility factors, the app stated.

Ghosting is spooky but unfortunately common. From romantic interests to prospective job opportunities, people online lament about never hearing back from the one person they want to hear from the most.

But what if they do?

Not only is ghosting seemingly ubiquitous in today's society of online connections, but so is a ghoster reappearing. Like a cheap movie fright, a text can come out of nowhere. Mashable spoke to ghostees who have experienced this and experts to understand why ghosters come back from the dead.

Post-breakup jump scare

Mandy (her name has been changed for privacy reasons) had hooked up with a Hinge match three times at the tail end of 2023, and they were making plans to see the Emerald Fennell film Saltburn together.

"We never solidified those plans, and then we never talked again," Mandy told Mashable. 

As a non-monogamous dater with a partner, Mandy has rules for mutual ghosting: if you both silently agree not to follow up after the first encounter, "it is what it is."

But after having sex three times? "There is just an etiquette, or a courtesy, to just be like, 'I don't want to see you anymore,'" said Mandy. "I really respect when people are very honest with me."

Still, this man wasn't. Mandy asked what date worked to see the movie, and then sent a TikTok video, but he only responded to the TikTok video instead of the date. As the proposed day inched closer, she asked him to let her know if he still wanted to catch the movie.

He didn't respond — until over a year later, around Christmas 2024.

"Uncalled for apology time," he texted, and went on to say that he didn't expect a response, but that he had begun dating someone else seriously at the time and had done a poor job communicating that to the other women he was going out with. 

Mandy replied, saying she appreciated the clarity and apology, and expressed hope that he and his partner were doing well.

"It did not work out," the former match said. 

"I was just confused," Mandy said. "I had a lot of mixed feelings." She replied anyway, saying she was sorry to hear that, and hoped all was well with him then. 

"I don't know if I really need an apology from you after you committed to ghosting on a relationship that was, for the most part, just casual," Mandy said. She sent the text to several friends, asking questions: Was he trying to rebuild his roster post-breakup? Did he want to see who was back and available?

"Is it for your own ego, or is it for more ulterior motives, like you want to have people to see casually again?" Mandy asked now. "I don't know, but it just made me feel really weird."

Mandy never talked to him again.

A long overdue explanation

At the end of 2017, when writer Sarah Freedman (who has written for Mashable) was preparing to move from New York to Los Angeles, she met a man on Tinder and had one "really intense night" together.

"You meet and then you're together for 24 hours," she described the date.

She tried to meet him again, and he said he wanted to see her, too. While they kept texting, plans never materialized, and it made Freedman anxious. She eventually texted him that she felt like she was being strung along and wanted to hear where he stood.

She never heard back.

Whirlwind, day-long first dates can be a "mindfuck," Freedman said. You feel like you're in a movie or a TV show, and that you have an amazing connection. "And then, you never hear from them," she said. "It's so painful…I think it really kind of underscores how little you know someone."

Despite whatever beautiful connection you had, you don't know the other person and have no idea what's going on in their life, she said. Evidenced by the long text she received from this date four years later. He was going through recovery for alcohol addiction and apologized, and he wanted to write Freedman a letter. 

"I got the text when I was literally sitting on the toilet," Freedman said. "You know, when you get these things, you remember exactly."

Freedman found the text admirable, showing significant growth and maturity. It taught her a lesson, one that stuck with her, and she wrote about herself on her Substack: She took the ghosting so personally, but it had nothing to do with her. 

This instance made it easier for her to understand that the way someone treats her doesn't necessarily have to do with who she is. 

"Especially in these brief, fleeting moments where you're connecting with someone and you don't know each other that well — how much can it really be the way I'm behaving around this person?" she asked. "I just have a lot of sympathy for him, and it just put it in so much perspective."

Freedman responded with her address, but he never sent the letter. "He ended up ghosting me again," she joked.

Still, it didn't lessen the impact of the apology.

"When you're ghosted, you just feel like you don't matter, right? You feel like no one thinks of you. No one cares. You're not even worthy of a response," she said. "Then have this and be like, 'Actually, I stayed with him. Actually, what happened weighed on him.' It was healing. It was really healing to hear that."

Why ghosters come back

People may ghost others as it is a non-confrontational — albeit immature — way to terminate a relationship or interaction, according to Dr. Beth Ribarsky, a professor of communications at the University of Illinois Springfield. 

"In a world where so many of our relationships are built and maintained via texts, calls, or social media, it is incredibly easy to simply stop responding to or block others" rather than risk confrontation or conflict, said Ribarsky, who specializes in interpersonal communications and romantic relationships. 

Mandy echoed the sentiment. "We have gotten to a point in culture where we don't like confrontation and we don't like direct conversation and communication about uncomfortable things," she said. But that's part of life — we have to talk about uncomfortable things, even if it's "I don't like you anymore" or "I don't want to see you again." 

"Sorry if that's harsh," she said. "It's better than leaving you guessing."

A ghoster might reappear because of guilt and loneliness — or boredom, Ribarsky commented. It depends on the situation.

When Joy Ofodu, host of the Dating Unsettled podcast and comedy creator, was single, she once had a ghoster apologize with a two-paragraph letter. They had been dating for two months and were even discussing family and goals. "I was genuinely surprised to have been left on read at the time," she told Mashable.

With an apology, "I think it's thoughtful but also kind of a protective self-preservation measure — they don't want to ruin their reputation within intimate friend groups, group chats, anonymous reporting communities, or apps, and know that ghosting doesn't get you far."

"Like alcoholics making amends, some of them may be in a place of deep character reflection and wanting to do an upheaval — that can involve an apology tour," she continued. In Freedman's situation, this was literal.

"Other times, as I've unfortunately also experienced, it's an apology to halfheartedly reactivate a dating conversation and see if the recipient is still open to your BS — a little ego boost to feel good again and go on their way," Ofodu continued, which is what Mandy suspected.

But sometimes, Ofodu said, you may find yourself the ghost. She had to issue her own apology after she let a dating app conversation dry up when she was busy with work and graduate school. Even her now-partner said sorry for ghosting when they first matched.

"We mutually, uncharacteristically ghosted each other on a first meet-up we'd set because we were juggling too much — then he came back, apologized, and hopped on a FaceTime with me just to meet each other," Ofodu said. "Without that apology, we may not be together today."

"Ghosting always sucks," said Freedman, and she knows how it feels — so she makes it a point not to ghost people. It would be easier not to respond, but she said, "I can take three minutes out of my day and send someone a nice message that also says, 'You're a cool person and I wish you the best.'"

Apologies for ghosting can be genuine or manipulative, Ofodu said, but thinks they're best accompanied by either blissful absence or action. "When in doubt, I think it's better to apologize than not."

Mandy believes her instance of a returning ghost is emblematic of our culture. However, she added, "I kind of appreciated it for the giggle it gave me." 

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In the final, titular track of her last album, The Life of a Showgirl, Taylor Swift proclaims, "Now I know the life of a showgirl, babe."

But does she?

This question, like many circling Swift's latest record, has the internet taking sides: some who believe Taylor Swift is indeed a showgirl, and others who think she's appropriating sex workers. 

The term "showgirl" carries certain connotations — one of a sexy, burlesque performer in a seedy nightclub or Las Vegas stage — that don't quite align with Taylor Swift's brand. But then again, maybe Swift is redefining the term itself. Mashable spoke with adult entertainers to see if Swift has that ol' razzle dazzle.

What is a showgirl?

If you Google the definition of "showgirl," you'll find the Oxford Languages definition: "an actress who sings and dances in musicals, variety acts, and similar shows."

Swift sort of fits that description. Acting isn't her forte (though she did more recently appear in Cats and Amsterdam), but she does sing and dance. However, digging a little further, "showgirl" has a more specific meaning.

In a 1994 article, "The Glorifier," about 20th-century Broadway impresario Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. and the creation of the American showgirl, Michael Lasser wrote that in the early 1900s, showgirls "offered something new: the tantalizing promise of sexual perfection."

Lasser wrote, "Despite the relish with which he fussed over details, Ziegfeld never lost sight of his own sustaining vision of beauty, sexuality, and audience appeal." He selected every showgirl himself and said they must attract men and promise both romance and excitement.

"Every night, from 8:40 p.m. until just before midnight, the showgirl was fantasy incarnate," Lasser wrote. Sexuality and fantasy, then, were inseparable from the showgirl.

Ziegfeld is arguably most known for his revue Ziegfeld Follies, which inspired the long-running Las Vegas-based revue Jubilee! — which then inspired the visuals for The Life of a Showgirl, according to designer Bob Mackie.

Jubilee!, which ran in Vegas for over 30 years, featured many topless performers. In 2015, Thrillist reported that, "Jubilee! is the last surviving representative of Vegas' signature form of entertainment: the epically magnificent topless review."

For more confirmation, look at cinematic showgirls. In the 1995 film Showgirls, the protagonist begins her Vegas career dancing at a strip club and then becomes the topless star of a big production. 

The same is true for 2024's The Last Showgirl, in which Pamela Anderson plays an aging topless performer in Vegas. 

So…is Taylor Swift a showgirl?

Shortly after Swift announced the album title in August, performer and model Gwen Adora posted on Bluesky that "Taylor Swift calling herself a showgirl is stolen working-class valour."

Despite replies from Swift fans that insist she is a showgirl, Adora stands by her point. 

"People think of taking clothes off when they think of showgirls," she told Mashable, "or Vegas performers, feathers, working class ladies in a can-can line…to me, that's not who Taylor Swift is."

"Taylor Swift is a hard worker and a good performer, but she doesn't have a working-class background in doing revue shows or doing theater performances," Adora continued, "and she's not doing erotic entertainment."

Swift's brand is distinctly girl next door — and despite the sexuality of her new song "Wood," her raves about her fiancé Travis Kelce's penis are all done in euphemisms. Even so, the lyric videos released in AMC theaters last weekend swapped some of the more suggestive lines for something more kid-friendly, like "open my thighs" to "open my skies."

Prior to the album release, Adora theorized that Swift would use the term as a metaphor and character in her album. But once the album came out, the visuals didn't really coincide with the vibes of the songs, which take musical inspiration from disco and 2000s pop punk. There are songs about being a performer (or, really, being famous), a mainstay of Swift's most recent work, including "Elizabeth Taylor," which explores whether fame is fleeting, and "Father Figure," which examines her power in the industry. But other than the titular track, there is not much about the showgirl life on the album. And until the last verse, Swift herself isn't the showgirl in question.

"Before the album came out, I would have assumed there would be strong metaphoric ties and a bit of research to make the symbolism work for her," Adora texted Mashable on the day of the album release. "Now it just feels like Taylor Swift is just appropriating a title for fun? For pure aesthetic? This feels extra careless."

Adora believes the showgirl aesthetic is an unusual choice, given that it's an industry with a deep history of labor exploitation and marginalization. "Especially during an era of modesty, labor rights movements, and suppressing sexual expression," Adora said, harking to the wave of age verification laws that are serving to chill both explicit and non-explicit content in the U.S. and elsewhere. There is also a surge of laws attempting to ban pornography in the U.S., on top of bans on drag performance in certain states.

In terms of modesty, the "tradwife" has risen online and in popular culture — including in Swift's music. In "Wi$h Li$t," she doesn't dream of career achievements, but of having kids and a lawn with a basketball hoop. 

For the New York Times, journalist Lissa Townsend Rodgers wrote that Taylor Swift isn't a showgirl either, because she's running the show. 

"She's not simply dancing the steps the choreographer teaches her and wearing the costume the designer pins on her: She created the show," Rodgers wrote. "She's not watching her bank account and auditioning for her job every six months: She's the boss."

Others, however, feel differently.

"I think that most adult entertainers would react favorably to Taylor Swift's use of the term 'showgirl' on her new album," said independent filmmaker, content creator, and adult performer MsSexySaigon in an email to Mashable. While "showgirl" has been historically associated with Las Vegas performers in musical productions, the term expanded to include strippers with the decades-ago launch of the adult entertainment club, Deja Vu, she continued.

With Instagram, OnlyFans, and camming today, there's an argument that women who are digital-media entrepreneurs and possess a broad skill set (including producing, scripting, set design, filming, acting, dancing, and marketing) are, in fact, showrunners.  

"Would these show performers/show runners (or showgirls) in some way feel elevated by the fact that Ms. Swift, in her artistic vision, chose to identify with the term, 'showgirl'?" Saigon asked. "Could they relate to and identify with aspects of the experiences of the show business highs and lows that Taylor Swift explores in her music?"

"I think that the answer to both questions is 'yes,'" she said.

Swiftly changing language

Adora believes that The Life of a Showgirl will have an impact that includes a shift in the meaning of "showgirl."

For one thing, Swift has many more people talking about showgirls in general. According to Google Trends, searches for "showgirl" have blown up 1,957 percent in the past quarter.

Credit: Google Trends

"Now that word has a different meaning to it, because Taylor Swift and her team have given it a different meaning, whether their intention was to do that or not," Adora said. "That's just how mega popstars work."

"Nothing is divorced from how it impacts culture and how people use language," she continued. Now, if people use "life of a showgirl" to caption their birthday and Halloween social media posts or Stories of themselves going to the movies, the term "showgirl" will be distilled, Adora opined, to make it for commodifiable to a larger audience.

This "takes away from the actual definition of the term and takes away from the hard work, effort, and glamor that actual working show-people, showgirls, show-women, show-men, put into their artistry and their craft," Adora said. 

Whether this Swift-ladden showgirl meaning will take root in the long term remains to be seen, but our feeds will be overtaken with it — and with Portofino orange — for the foreseeable future.

Devante is not one to mince words. The 32-year-old Las Vegas-based TikTok creator, known online as @devanteyaps, has built an unlikely career out of narrating the porn industry like it's the NBA. (Devante asked us not to use his actual first and last name for privacy reasons.)

His clips — fast-talking, stat-laden, equal parts barbershop banter and SportsCenter highlight reel — have drawn millions of views across Instagram and TikTok (with over 97,000 and 100,000 followers respectively), a rabid comment section, and even the ears of the performers themselves. And it all started with a list of which performers are the cream of the crop.

"Someone [on TikTok] said [adult actor] Pinky wasn't even top 20," Devante recalls in an interview with Mashable. "I was like, what?!" So, in April, he made a video correcting the record. Over a 100 videos later, he has stumbled into a niche that is equal parts absurd and undeniable.

The 'GSPN' of TikTok

Once an intern at a recording studio, Devante has amassed a fanbase that "lovingly" calls him Gooner A. Smith (nameplay of the sports commentator Stephen A. Smith and "gooning," which means watching porn for hours while edging). His TikTok bio declares him a "GSPN" (gooning ESPN) analyst.

What makes Devante stand out isn't just the gimmick, but the authority he's managed to command. Performers DM him, companies offer him free subscriptions, and fans flood his rankings with debates about who really belongs in the porn hall of fame. "I try to stay grounded," he says. "At the end of the day, I'm just opinions. But I know my words have weight now."

In an era when many still whisper about adult content in hushed tones, Devante has unexpectedly become one of its first unabashed public analysts — a sort of pioneer in bringing porn commentary into mainstream digital culture. His SportsCenter-meets-porn breakdowns are somewhat the end result of TikTok's obsession with sex work as both spectacle and subject (judging from the debate that preceded his account), but he now occupies a rarified space that a few others are also approaching.

That boldness is especially striking against a political backdrop where porn is under fresh attack: Project 2025, the conservative blueprint for Donald Trump's second presidential term, explicitly calls for criminalizing pornography and prosecuting those who produce and distribute it. This year, lawmakers introduced several bills to ban porn.

In that sense, Devante's work isn't just about grabbing attention — it's about reframing porn as an industry worth analyzing rather than a guilty pleasure to be hidden away. However, at the end of the day, he's still an entertainer.

Even the label of "entertainer" brings pressure, though. Early on, he roasted a performer's plastic surgery and found himself on the receiving end of weeks of clapback. "It doesn't matter if I was right," he opines now. "I shouldn't have said it like that." These days, he toes the line between critique and cruelty, aware that performers — real people with real feelings — are listening. "I want to be factual, fair. I don't want to hurt feelings, even when I'm being honest."

The irony is that, while Devante's whole brand is porn talk, his videos are often less salacious than they are sociological. He thinks about eras, evolutions, the racial "two leagues" divide in porn's history, and the economics of OnlyFans. He rails against poor camerawork — "Tripod, ten feet away, and you're still charging $40?"— with the same exasperation as a coach watching sloppy defense. And he worries about the darker undercurrents of the industry: potential exploitation, unsafe meetups with anonymous male creators, and the mental health of women who are highly visible online.

"People have told me the most vile things online," he says. "But I know the girls are getting worse than me. The mental health side of this needs to be talked about way more."

The stigma of talking about adult content online

For someone whose persona is built on shamelessness, stigma is never far away. Devante's been called "the goonfather" at work and brushed off concerns from friends about hanging out with porn stars. But he shrugs. "If you're gonna judge me for what I do, I don't care," he says. "I'm doing things people would love to do. Why have shame about it?"

If anything, he sees his platform as a way to push back against stigma — both for himself and for the performers. Long-term, he wants to launch a podcast that humanizes porn performers rather than baiting them into viral clips. "Other shows, they'll ask them wild questions just for clicks. I want to ask, 'How'd you start? What are your goals after this? How does your family accept it?'"

Devante's videos now take three to four hours a day to create: researching scenes across subscription sites, double- and triple-checking facts, then recording into TikTok's 10-minute time cap. Consistency beats perfection, he insists. "Some days I'm locked in, some days I'm not. But showing up every day matters more than being perfect."

His "greatest hits" remain the rankings — Top 10 lists that reliably ignite the comments section, with fans arguing stats like sports fans screaming about Jordan vs. LeBron. (For him, it's Gianna Michaels as Jordan and Angela White as LeBron, in case you're wondering.)

Whether you find his shtick brilliant or ridiculous, Devante is well on his way to reshaping the way people talk about porn online. He's not naïve about it. He knows the ridicule, the contradictions, and the fact that some will always see him as unserious. But he also believes he's building something bigger from his "15 minutes of fame."

"I want to give performers a platform where they're seen as humans," he says. "That's the goal. That's where all this is heading."

Ohio's age-verification laws went into effect on September 30. But despite what you might read on Reddit, Pornhub is staying put in the Buckeye State.

Age-verification laws vary across states but typically require a visitor to a site that hosts explicit content to verify their age, beyond simply checking a box indicating they're over 18. In Ohio's in particular, any site that contains "any material or performance that is obscene or harmful to juveniles" must verify visitors' ages using one's photo ID or public or private data — like mortgage, educational, and employment records.

In many states where age-verification laws have been enacted, the tube site Pornhub has blocked itself due to the burden of complying with these laws. But Pornhub isn't blocked in Ohio, its owner Aylo told Mashable, nor has it enabled age verification measures.

Unlike other state laws in places where Pornhub removed itself, Ohio's law states that establishing age verification methods doesn't apply to a provider of an interactive computer service (under section 1349.10).

"As a provider of an 'interactive computer service' as defined under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, it is our understanding that we are not subject to the obligations under section 1349.10 of the Ohio Revised Code regarding mandated age verification for the 'interactive computer services' we provide, such as Pornhub," Aylo told Mashable in a statement.

Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996 states that platforms aren't liable for content that users upload onto them.

Aylo goes on to state that it has publicly supported age verification for users for years. "However, we believe that any law to this effect must preserve user safety and privacy and must effectively protect children from accessing content intended for adults."

"Unfortunately, the way many jurisdictions worldwide have chosen to implement age verification is ineffective, haphazard, and failing to meet these basic requirements," it goes on. It then advocates, as it has for years, for device-level filters in order to stop minors from accessing explicit content.

This summer, Pornhub announced that it will comply with the UK's Online Safety Act, its own version of age verification. Such laws have swept the U.S. and abroad (despite experts telling Mashable they don't work and will result in broader censorship), with Pornhub blocking itself in France due to its law as well.

While Pornhub is blocked from many states, Ohioans will be able to access it for the foreseeable future.

Hily, a dating app with 39 million worldwide users, just launched a feature to stop unwanted explicit messages and cyberflashing, or sending non-consensual nude images.

"Consent Guard" uses machine-learning models and custom algorithms to scan for specific words in messages and elements of photos. If something X-rated is detected, Hily will alert a user that their match wants to send explicit messages, and that they'll only see them if they consent. The user can then consent or decline.

The sender, meanwhile, receives a prompt to request one-click consent. If they say no, the explicit content won't be sent. And if the prompt goes unanswered, the conversation will continue as if nothing explicit was attempted.

Hily's new Consent Guard in action. Credit: Hily

Each user can send up to three consent requests per chat, according to Hily's press release. Users can also adjust their consent settings at any point — from hot to chill to "not tonight, please."

Hily developed Consent Guard with its sexologist and sex educator, Dr. Mindy DeSeta. DeSeta provided insights on the culture around sexual consent and harassment.

As of 2024, over a third of women under 40 have received unsolicited sexual photos from someone who was not a dating, romantic, or sexual partner, YouGov reported. This is an issue that other dating apps have also addressed, such as Bumble's Private Detector, an AI tool designed to detect nude images.

Hily has also previously addressed this. Consent Guard will replace the app's Explicit Filter feature, which blurred photos for review.

"Unsolicited pics have never really worked: they're mostly just a turn-off," DeSeta said in the press release. "Hily's new Consent Guard feature actually empowers your sexuality by putting you in charge of how you date, what you share, and how sexy you want to get. Instead of having an explicit photo pop up at the worst possible moment, imagine getting a notification that someone wants to get a little hot and heavy. That's mental foreplay!"

When you have a crush — maybe one you swiped right on Tinder or found on your Instagram explore page — it can feel exhilarating. But as reality sinks in, so can a smashing, bone-cracking feeling that the word "crush" itself evokes.

Now you're here, perhaps on the same device where you tried to woo your now-former crush…or at least, ogled photos of them. And while it's not a full-on end of a relationship (though Mashable also has a guide to getting over a breakup), getting over a crush can still feel crushing. Mashable reached out to relationship experts on how to successfully delete your crush from your mind, as you (hopefully) deleted their contact.

Stop romanticizing your crush

"Someone once said 'a crush is just a lack of information,' and that's the mantra I pass on to clients," said life coach and sexologist Elle Chase. "A crush can feel powerful because it's all potential, and little reality. It's built on curiosity and projection, not compatibility and facts."

Once you learn more about this person, such as their values, habits, and how they present themselves in relationships and navigate the world when no one's watching, the crush may crumble right then, Chase continued.

But if it doesn't, remember the moments you felt confused, anxious, or unsure. It's easy to forget those and cling to the few great memories you made with this person, said dating expert and host of the dating and relationship podcast Seeing Other People, Ilana Dunn. She suggests writing down the facts, either with pen to paper or in your Notes app. Ask yourself:

• How often did they actually show up?

• How consistent were they?

• Did you feel calm, or did you constantly check your phone, waiting for reassurance?

"Seeing it in black and white helps break the spell," Dunn told Mashable. "Plus, having this list is great to reference back in moments when you start spiraling."

Block, unfollow, or mute

There's no shame in using these social media tools to get this person off your mind. 

"Every time you check their Instagram or reread an old text thread, your brain treats it like fresh contact. That's why it still feels so hard to move on even if you’re 'not talking,'" Dunn said. "Mute, archive, block, or hide whatever you need to so your nervous system can finally take a breath."

And don't create burner accounts to circumvent the action you took and look at their posts anyway. It'll only drag on your infatuation with them.

Shift your attention

We're in the attention economy, after all, and everything online is competing for our focus. So why give yours to an unrequited love?

"Shifting attention to something that brings you pleasure can help you move past it," psychologist and sex and intimacy coach Dr. Lori Beth Bisbey suggested. 

"If they were your default shower thought or commuting distraction, you need a new fixation," Dunn said. Start a new hobby, like running or puzzles. Get into a new TV show (Mashable has a few suggestions) or podcast.

Distract yourself in moderation, but by all means, do so if you need to.

Grieve if you need to

Heartache sucks, even if it's over something that was short-lived. That might actually make it worse, because you didn't have enough time to see a relationship run its course. The "what ifs" can stick. Let them linger there and don't rush to move on.

"A lot of heartbreak comes from losing what could have been, not what actually was," Dunn explained. "It's okay to be sad about that version of the story, but once you process it, ask yourself honestly: do I actually want someone who made me question if they cared? Or do I want someone who makes me feel chosen without guessing?"

Don't be afraid to lean on your friends, too. Dunn said they can be the reality check you can't give yourself. They remember the anxious voice notes and screenshots. 

Just like getting over someone you never dated, getting over your crush will take time, but it is possible — even at a time when the internet apparently "lives forever." Use tech to your advantage and move to a different corner of social media, one that doesn't fill you with that "crushing" feeling.

The dating app Breeze has added sign languages as an option to its "Date Languages."

Breeze removes the chat function of the app experience. If you match, you fill out a plan for a date, and then the app organizes it for you. The app has arranged over 400,000 dates in the U.S. and Europe since its launch in 2020.

As matches don't chit-chat before meeting in person, knowing you share a common means of communication is crucial — especially for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Breeze states in its press release that the sign language matching feature is baked into its matching algorithm, so that it prioritizes matches with overlapping languages.

Sign languages on Breeze. Credit: Breeze

Breeze users can add sign languages both when they create their initial profile and within the app's "Date Preferences" tab. It'll be featured at the top of profiles.

"Our 'no-chat' model is about creating genuine, in-person connections. This feature is a vital part of that mission, ensuring that a user's language preference and ability to communicate is established and matched before the date is even arranged," Breeze's head of business development, Marco van der Woude, stated in the press release. "Focusing only on the 'average' user means eventually our product won't work for anyone, because everyone is unique."

Today, Hinge is updating its approach to handling content that violates its Terms of Service for all U.S. users. The dating app will now remove a specific piece of problematic content from a user's account and share clear feedback on what was flagged and why — as opposed to banning the account entirely.

Previously, if one piece of content (like a photo or response to a prompt) on a profile was flagged and didn't meet Hinge's Terms of Service, that account would be booted, and the person behind it would need to appeal the ban.

Now, that single piece of content will be removed. The account will remain on the app, but it won't appear in other people's Discover or Standout feeds (where you can "like" and match). Users will also be given a specific reason why and a chance to update their profile so that they can be seen by others again.

Hinge's new content removal process Credit: Hinge

Reasons why content could get removed include discriminatory language, scams, and sexually explicit material, according to Hinge's help center.

This change comes after reports of Hinge (and other dating apps) banning accounts, and those users having a difficult time appealing the decision. Singles who have been banned from apps told Mashable earlier this year that not being able to use them has hurt their dating lives.

Now, Hinge aims to provide greater clarity and transparency regarding its rules and decision-making processes. It also hopes to decrease the frustration of "well-intentioned" daters who will be given a chance to adjust their profiles. Hinge clarified to Mashable that one instance of "extremely harmful" content — like graphic or extreme violence — could constitute a ban.

"We believe in supporting our community throughout their dating journey," said Hinge's chief risk officer, Jeff Dunn, in a statement to Mashable. "By giving daters the opportunity to update their content while remaining in good standing on Hinge, we're delivering on our commitment to greater transparency and helping well-intentioned users better understand our policies — so they can stay focused on what matters most — making meaningful connections."

UPDATE: Sep. 30, 2025, 2:39 p.m. EDT This article has been updated with further clarity from Hinge.

I’ve been testing dating apps for Mashable for three years, and Pure is one of the most unconventional and artsy platforms I’ve used — especially for an app that's so direct about sex, yet lacks the usual NSFW ads and creepy messages.

Unlike “traditional” dating apps (and this is definitely a niche app), Pure encourages you to be yourself without actually revealing your full identity. Instead of asking you to share your life story, it asks, “What if you shared nothing at all?”

It’s designed for people who are tired of small talk and want to connect based on unfiltered desires, which, ironically, you can filter for. It's ideal for virtual play, casual hookups, and finding someone who is into the same things you are, without judgment.

While this might sound like just another wild hookup app, Pure’s 2025 evolution is focused on creating an empowering space for a Gen Z and female audience that values safety and consent as much as privacy. The features are thoughtful, and the playful interface encourages you to open up and take a chance.

To see how well it works, I used Pure for four weeks with a simple bio, three photos, and a few “Turn-ons,” and I was honestly surprised by the results. Below is my detailed experience with Pure, from the moment I signed up to connecting with other users.

Getting started on Pure: The first 60 seconds

As soon as you download the app, it asks you to sign in using your Apple or Google account. You can also use Facebook, but I'm assuming it's a less-picked option since the link is in a tiny font below the big, clickable buttons for the other two.

There’s also a disclaimer that reads, “You must be at least 18 years old!” — though, as I'd discover, the actual age verification doesn't happen until later.

You’ll then be asked to choose your gender. Pure offers three options:

• I am a man

• I am a woman

• I am non-binary

Once you choose, you’re prompted to add your sexuality. The list includes hetero, bi, lesbian, queer, and asexual (for me, as I selected that I am a woman). There are little monster-like, Salvador Dalí-esque drawings underneath the options, which adds some whimsy (though they kind of freak me out a little bit).

Pure's sign-up process is quick and to the point. Credit: Mashable | Pure

3 photos and 350 characters to make your case

After defining your identity, the app asks what you're actually looking for.

The options are:

• Casual

• Long-term

• Virtual

• Non-monogamy

• Anything but boring

One thing I noticed is that it doesn’t specifically ask if you’re looking for men, women, or non-binary people. I guess choosing your sexuality on the first screen is meant to handle that.

Once you make a selection (you can only pick one), the app asks for your birthdate. This is where the age verification comes in. After you enter the date, a message pops up asking you to confirm you are the age you say you are, warning that it can’t be changed later. You click “That’s Right,” and you're set. You're also given a small toggle to hide your age from your profile.

Then, things get a bit more personal. You’re asked to enter your height (which you can also hide), the languages you speak from a list of 15+, whether you belong to a couple or not (a win for non-monogamous users), and to upload photos. You’ll need to add three of them to move forward. The last step is your bio (which Pure calls a “personal ad”). You only get 350 characters, so you’ll need to be short and to the point. Once that’s done, you’re in!

Pure’s stance on verification gets even more serious in the UK. With age verification being a hot-button issue across the internet (from porn sites to YouTube), Pure complies with local law by requiring UK users to complete a face scan to estimate their age. If it’s inconclusive, they’re prompted to scan a government ID.

After the basics, the profile setup continues with more personal details like your height (which you can choose to hide), the languages you speak, and your photos. Credit: Mashable | Pure

Anonymity, ‘Turn-Ons,’ and ‘Devil‘s Bones’

Perhaps the most important feature on Pure is one it completely lacks: your name. I didn’t forget to mention it earlier — because the app never asks for it. The entire experience is built around anonymity, which may make it easier to connect with other users without the pressure of exposing your public identity (but definitely sharing who you really are).

For example, the “Devil's Bones” feature lets you roll the proverbial dice and join a random voice or text chat with a complete stranger. It’s a feature that only works in a setting where no one knows who you are.

The app also gives you a dedicated space to list your ”Turn-Ons.” You can select multiple options within predefined categories like “Foreplay,” “Communication,” and — something certain Mashable readers might appreciate — “Gamergasm.” The choices range from the vanilla (cuddles, kisses) to the delightfully unhinged (biting, wax play, being watched). I was especially happy to see progressive options like “been to therapy” and “dry dating” included. I’m here for it.

This control over your persona extends to your photos, too. You can create entire photo albums on your profile and choose to keep them hidden (and only share access when you choose to do so).

Anonymity vs. safety: How Pure manages both

Anonymity is Pure’s biggest draw, but it naturally raises the risk of catfishing and misrepresentation. So, how does the app handle it? It turns out, with some pretty clever features.

The Photo Verification Badge is your first line of defense. Users can verify they’re real by submitting a quick, private face scan where they copy a specific pose. This badge lets you know there's a genuine person interested in you behind the profile, not a bot or scammer.

But verification isn’t required. So, if a user isn’t verified, the app has a ”True Photo” request. This lets you ask for a live photo from a match directly within your chat, serving as a real-time reality check. It’s a great way to get some peace of mind before you share your secrets (or photos of your naughty bits).

Pure also gives you tools to control your own experience. If you're squeamish about sensitive content (it’s OK, not everyone wants to go straight to Pound Town), a toggle in the settings blurs explicit photos until you choose to view them. You can also hide specific ads from your feed or hide your own profile whenever you need a break, giving you another layer of control.

How matching works on a 24-hour clock

The main way to connect on Pure is through your “ad.” This is basically your bio, which you can update whenever you’d like or hide from the feed when you want to take a break.

To see ads from other members, you’ll need to post one first. Once your ad is live, a Feed of other users appears, based on your location and preferences. You can then filter who you see by things like age and “Turn-ons,” and the app even gives you a heads-up if someone is a seasoned “Pure Guru” or brand “New” to the app. (Pro tip: the "Perfect Match" filter lets you select up to five of your must-have "Turn-Ons," and then only shows you people who share the exact same interests.)

When you see an ad you like, just click “Like,” and if there’s a match, the app creates a chat for you. But you should know that all chats expire in 24 hours, and anything you’ve shared will disappear along with them. Your “Likes” also expire on the same clock. (This is a bit like Bumble, where if a match doesn't reply to a first message within 24 hours, the match disappears.) But based on my testing, it appears that paid features, like unopened Instant Chats and Gifts, stay in your inbox until you decide to accept them. If you and your match want to keep talking in a standard chat, you can both agree to turn off the timer and chat without a time limit. Once the timer is off, Pure assigns you and your match random pop-culture or mythological nicknames, so you're still anonymous even if you decide to keep chatting.

The chats are designed for privacy, too. The app blocks screenshots and will notify you if someone tries to take one. You can also delete the entire chat from both phones at any time by tapping “Clear History.” And if you want to leave a chat, Pure encourages a little honesty by letting you choose a reason, like "Not my type" or "Ghosted," which it then shares with your chat partner.

So, how much does Pure cost?

Pure is completely free for women, but men and non-binary users will need to pay for a subscription to get the most out of it.

For Men and Non-Binary Users

Pricing can vary, but most basic subscriptions start around $6.67 per month (billed annually, so the upfront cost is higher). Pure's PR team confirmed that the Premium subscription runs around:

• $13.49 weekly

• $29.99 monthly

• $99.99 yearly

Features for this tier include:

• Unlimited Likes: Send as many "Likes" as you want.

• Dating with no Borders: This gives you the ability to change your location and scroll through users in any city worldwide.

• Smart Likes: Lets you choose who you want to receive likes from.

• Filter All Likes: Lets you apply filters to see the most compatible likes first.

• Blocklist: Blocked users can be unblocked at any time.

Men can also purchase the “King of the Hill” feature, which will pin their ad at the top of the feed for an hour or until another user takes the top spot.

For Women (Pure Queen Subscription)

While the app is free for women, there's a paid subscription tier called “Pure Queen” that unlocks additional features. A Queen subscription includes premium features like Smart Likes, Filter All Likes, and Blocklist management, but also comes with a few extra perks:

• Incognito Mode: This feature lets you browse the feed secretly and appear offline. The subscription includes seven "incognito hats" each week, and from what I've gathered, they activate incognito mode for 24 hours at a time.

• Queen Style: This adds a unique avatar and design to your ad. You can turn it off whenever you want, but this will give other users a clear visual indication that you’ve paid to be here and are serious about your intentions.

Pure Queen subscriptions ($12.99 for one month or $19.99 for one year) renew automatically unless you cancel them at least 24 hours before the end of the paid period.

À La Carte Features

There are also additional à la carte features available for purchase:

• Virtual Gifts: You can also purchase and send virtual gifts like a heart, a lucky star, or a cocktail to someone you really like. (You can get 50 for $1.60 each or one for $2.99).

• Instant Chat: If you're ready to chat with someone who hasn't noticed you yet, you can purchase an Instant Chat to start a convo with anyone on the app, even without a mutual like. (10 Instant Chats are $13.99).

• Chips: This is an in-app currency used to unlock specific actions, like sending a request to save a chat from the "Devil’s Bones" feature. (Five chips cost approximately $1.10).

Is Pure worth the download?

Pure isn’t for everyone, and it doesn’t pretend to be. The entire experience is designed for a specific kind of dater: someone who’s adventurous, values their privacy, and wants to try something a little bit unconventional. It’s a total “breath of fresh air” (literally hate that phrase, but it applies here) for anyone who’s so over the mainstream apps. Pure makes finding connections fun — and if I’m being honest, it’s also hot.

In the four weeks I used the app, I received hundreds of “Likes” each day from real people, and several Instant Chats and Gifts. I also received some steamy voice messages. To really test the location-based features, I was in New York City for one week to see if I received more local engagement (spoiler alert: I did), but even when I returned to Virginia, I still received 100+ “Likes” per day, and the messages weren’t just “hey,” either. My bio reads: “Just a journalist doing some research.” So, so many people who responded to my ad had something cheeky and a little bit witty to say — a completely different experience than I had when using Hinge or Bumble. The only downside I noticed is that even though I set my sexuality to “bi”, there were way more men in my inbox than women (but there was an even split of women and men in the feed).

So my honest opinion on whether it’s worth the download is a resounding yes, particularly for women who are looking for a partner who can think up something that’s better (and sexier) than “hey.” Also, if you’re interested in just having super hot phone sex with strangers, Pure is the place to be.

Would it surprise you to learn that Pornhub pulls in enough eyeballs to rank among the most-visited websites on the entire planet?

According to SimilarWeb (an analytics platform for websites and apps), adult websites like Xvideos and Pornhub get a staggering number of monthly visitors, with Pornhub alone pulling in 1.7 billion visits in August 2025. To put that number in perspective, these porn giants often outrank sites like Netflix and Amazon (though not ChatGPT).

But if you're itching to take things a step further than just watching and want to live out some of those fantasies IRL, then exploring Pornhub alternatives like AdultFriendFinder and other NSFW dating sites could connect you with someone who's on the same page.

Before you dive in, let's be clear about what you're getting into. On these sites, "dating" usually means a one-night stand, a threesome, or a sex buddy — not a long-term partner. Likewise, platforms like Cams.com and SextPanther are paid platforms that connect you to online performers, which means no IRL connections. (Bringing up IRL meetings could get you permanently banned from these sites.) When navigating the best hookup apps, always be specific and honest about what you want on your profile to find someone who's on the same page. And remember the golden rule: consent, boundary-setting, and respect are non-negotiable.

Finally, one more warning: There are a lot of romance scammers and other cyber criminals looking to take advantage of people online. Please be cautious and use common sense.

While most of these sites are free to access, many offer paid memberships to unlock bonus features. So, if you're tired of your goon cave, here are our favorite X-rated dating sites as an alternative to Pornhub. (Be warned: NSFW content awaits.)