How to meet new people using your cell phone: the best apps and how to get started.
Meeting new people has become much easier with cell phones. Today there are apps for those who want to make friends in their own city, chat casually, find people with similar interests, or start a serious relationship. The right choice depends on what you're looking for.
How to choose the right app
Before downloading, it's worth thinking about your goal. Some apps are focused on dating and show you nearby people to like or pass on; others bring together groups and events based on interest, which helps those who want to expand their circle of friends. It's also worth checking if the app is popular in your area: the more people using it nearby, the more chances of connecting.
The best apps for meeting new people
We've compiled a list of the most popular apps, each with a different style. See who each one works best for and visit the official website of the one that matches your needs.
Tinder
For those who want to meet lots of people near you.
The most well-known dating app. You see profiles of people nearby, swipe to like or pass, and when there's mutual interest, the conversation opens.
- Very popular throughout almost all of Brazil.
- Profile verification by photo
- Full free version for chatting
Access the official Tinder website.
You will be taken to the app's official website.
Bumble
For those who prefer quieter conversations.
In matches between men and women, it's the woman who initiates the conversation. The brand also has Bumble For Friends, a separate app for those seeking friendship.
- Friends-only version (Bumble For Friends)
- Profile verification by photo
- Questions and filters to reveal interests.
Access the official Bumble website.
You will be taken to the app's official website.
Badoo
A place to chat and make friends without rushing.
One of the oldest dating apps, used by those who want to chat, make friends, or something more. It allows you to see people nearby and talk via chat and video call.
- Chat and video call in the app.
- Many users in Brazil
- Profile verification
Access the official Badoo website.
You will be taken to the app's official website.
happn
To find out who crossed your path.
It shows people who passed near you in your daily life, such as at work, college, or on public transport. Good for those who live in big cities.
- Connections with people who frequent the same places.
- Approximate location, never exact.
- Free version to enjoy and chat
Access the official happn website
You will be taken to the app's official website.
OkCupid
For those who want to match based on compatibility.
You answer questions about your likes, values, and goals, and the app shows a percentage of compatibility with each person.
- Compatibility by questions
- More detailed profiles
- Good for those seeking a serious relationship.
Access the official OkCupid website.
You will be taken to the app's official website.
Meetup
To make friends through shared interests.
It's not a dating app: it brings together in-person and online groups and events about sports, languages, technology, reading, hiking, and much more. Great for those who have arrived in a new city.
- Groups and events by interest
- In-person and online meetings
- Free to join most groups.
Access the official Meetup website.
You will be taken to the app's official website.
How to get started: step by step
- Choose one or two apps.Start with what matches your goal: dating, conversation, or friendship. Having two apps increases your chances without creating a mess.
- Download from the official store.Use only Google Play (Android) or the App Store (iPhone). Avoid files from unknown websites.
- Create a polished profile.Use recent, clear photos with your face visible, and write a short bio highlighting two or three of your interests.
- Start a conversation.Start a conversation based on something from the person's profile. A simple question works better than a simple "hi".
⚠️ Warning: Never send money, verification codes, or bank details to someone you met through the app, no matter how trustworthy they seem. For the first meeting, choose a public place and let someone you trust know.
What do you need?
📋 To create your account
- Android or iPhone mobile phone with the updated system.
- Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile data)
- Email or phone number to create the account.
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Two or three recent photos of you
- Just a few minutes to complete the profile.
Tips for greater success
Photos make all the difference.
Choose photos with good lighting, smiling, and without sunglasses. Include a full-body photo and one of you doing something you enjoy.
Be yourself in your bio.
Talk about what you enjoy doing and what you're looking for. Honest bios attract like-minded people.
Chat on the app before giving out your number.
Keep the conversation in the app until you feel comfortable. That way, if something goes wrong, it's easy to block and report it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the apps free?
Yes. All of them can be downloaded and used for free. Paid plans are optional and only unlock extra features.
What's the best app for making friends?
Meetup is great for making friends based on shared interests, while Bumble For Friends is designed specifically for those seeking friends.
Which app has the most users in Brazil?
Tinder and Badoo are among the most used in the country, which increases the chances of finding people near you.
Do I need to be 18 years old?
Yes. The dating apps on this list are for people 18 and older.
How to avoid fake profiles?
Give preference to verified profiles, be wary of those who ask for money or avoid video calls, and report suspicious profiles within the app itself.
Want to discover other useful apps?
Informative content. SilvaDaily is not affiliated with, nor does it represent, any of the apps mentioned. The names and brands belong to their respective owners. Always download apps from official app stores.
