(NBC News) Some people refer to Valentine’s Day as “singles awareness day”
And a growing number of singles are looking for love online.
More than ever, they’re using their smartphone.
“Some of the most popular apps include OKCupid, which lets people sign up for free and matches without having to pay anything – or you can pay for a subscription that gives you some additional features,” said NBCNews.com Tech Editor Julianne Pepitone.
‘Plenty of fish’ can give you a glimpse at your potential dating pool and match.com is another popular way to make a love connection.
But there are some less traditional dating apps gaining popularity.
“Tinder is really aimed at 20 or 30 somethings who are willing to make a quick decision,” Pepitone said.
Swipe right to “like” or left to “pass” on a user’s picture. If you both “like” what you saw… Matches can chat through the app.
There’s also hinge, an app capitalizing on social media.
“Hinge will only connect you with other users if you have mutual Facebook friends in common,” said Pepitone.
Some online dating sites are very picky about who can join. Both “beautiful people” and “the league” require you to *apply to be a member.
Some apps even cater to very specific interests.
“LumberMatch which “connects beauties with beardies”… it connects people who really love to dress like a lumberjack,” Pepitone said.
But if a relationship sounds like too much work… You can hire a fake partner.
“Invisible girlfriend or invisible boyfriend lets you pay $25 a month and kind of invent a partner for yourself”
The deal includes texts and voicemails from your invisible beau.
Which may satisfy those concerned you haven’t found your valentine.
According to pew research, one in five adults between the ages of 25 and 34 have tried dating online.
Older singles, 34 to 44… Weren’t too far behind at 17 percent.
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