Tinder, the popular dating app, has released its annual Year in Swipe report for 2025, offering insights not just about global trends, but with a special focus on Thailand's dating preferences. This year, the findings reveal some compelling shifts, indicating how singles are actively seeking relationships more aligned with their lifestyles and values.
Among the standout trends identified, the first one, termed 'Loud Looking', speaks volumes. According to the report, more than 57% of singles are on the lookout for genuine love with aspirations of marriage, signifying a notable shift from casual flings to serious commitments. This trend emphasizes clarity and straightforwardness, with users demonstrating less interest in ambiguous dating practices. Vivek Patel, Senior VP of Product Development at Tinder, elucidates this trend: "Loud Looking has become more prevalent, as singles are ready to assert their desires without ambiguity."
The second major trend, 'Kiss-Met', reflects how singles are increasingly inclined to engage in activities promoting real experiences. Close to 40% of respondents indicated they would prefer dates involving sweaty hikes or messy pottery classes. Such hands-on activities not only cultivate bonding experiences but also allow singles to demonstrate their authentic selves. These trends show the shift toward immersive dating where the focus lies on shared experiences, rather than superficial conversations.
The third trend, 'Nano-Ships', pertains to valuing moments of connection, even if they're brief. Singles apparently find beauty and meaning even in small romantic encounters—like the first connection with someone on public transport. This conveys how almost one-fourth of singles place importance on maintaining positive energy and enjoying life's small pleasures, shifting the narrative on what constitutes meaningful interactions. This delicate perspective is mirrored by Tinder's users who express the necessity of showcasing their best selves, not only to impress potential dates but also to win over their partner’s social circles.
When it came to the qualities singles seek in partners, reliability topped the list at 40%. Attractive physical traits followed closely at 35%, and shared values were significant for 31% of respondents. Emotional readiness and mutual interests were also pivotal factors. On the flip side, key deal-breakers included poor hygiene (50%), rudeness (44%), and frequent mention of ex-partners (34%). Notably, respect emerged as a priority among Thai Tinder users, with about 54% preferring love expressed through caring actions rather than grand gestures.
This detailed exploration of trends illuminates how singles' priorities are rapidly changing as they navigate the waters of modern romance—where traditional expectations are being replaced with personal authenticity and emotional connection. Tinder's insights may very well signal broader trends across the dating scene, steering singles toward relationships characterized by mutual respect, shared interests, and genuine experiences.
Valentine's Day, traditionally marked by romantic clichés, has also been affected by these trends, with flower prices skyrocketing—often reflecting the demand for love and the lengths people are willing to go for it, as reported this year. The rise of roses' prices might echo the increased romantic expectations among the dating communities, necessitating intimate gestures where genuine affection is expressed through thoughtful actions. Tinder's report encapsulates the desire for meaningful romance over transactional dating, which could redefine how people approach love today.
Overall, the Year in Swipe report does not only showcase the dynamics of modern dating but also reflects the innate human desire to connect authentically. With these new revelations, it’s clear Tinder is not just transforming the way users meet but is also shaping the very expectations of love and relationships for the future. Singles today aren't just swiping through profiles; they're articulately and boldly defining their romantic journeys. With undeniable clarity, dating is becoming more than just casual, fostering enduring commitments rooted in real shared experiences.