Listen: are virtual dates here to stay?

For those looking for love, lockdown meant needing to get pretty creative when it came to dating. ‘Long-distance’ is now a necessity, virtual dates are part of the new ‘normal’ and, with physical intimacy restricted, making a genuine, meaningful connection online and a great first impression is more important than ever.

New research released today by Virgin Media suggests, following an initial 36% increase during lockdown, the surge in digital dating looks to continue even after restrictions ease. It also proves first impressions are now more important than ever as findings show over half (56%) of Brits make up their mind about someone on a video date in just 30 seconds.

Over recent months, the majority (60%) of British singletons admit they enjoyed virtual dating, with almost one in four (23%) intending to keep it up as a way to quickly screen out non-starters in the search for romance. Over half (55%) of daters surveyed admit their new virtual relationships seem to blossom quicker, with 45% more likely to make a relationship exclusive if they’ve been on a virtual date. More than two in five (44%) even say they form a deeper connection with someone on a video date than on a physical date.

Aston spoke to relationship expert and podcaster Alix Fox to discuss
the research and to help Brits make genuine, meaningful connections online.

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash