Czech LGBTQ+ dating apps match up millions of people worldwide

While apps like Tinder and Grindr have revolutionized online dating in the Czech Republic, they are mainly used by singles in big cities. But for some Czechs, particularly those in villages, apps are a legitimate way to find potential friends and partners.

Aside from Tinder and Grindr a host of popular apps allow LGBTQ+ communities around the world to connect, among them a pair of dating applications developed in the Czech Republic: Zoe, the second most used dating site worldwide for women, and Surge, also among the top apps for men.

Together these platforms are currently helping more than 10 million users worldwide find love, and the potential for further growth of gay dating apps is being recognized by Czech technology company STRV, which developed Zoe and Surge under the Cosmic Latte brand.

The Prague-based tech company recently acquired full ownership of the apps and in doing so is set to give LGBTQ+ online dating a considerable boost in Czechia and around the world.

"We want to focus on improving the user experience with an emphasis on Generation Z, improve security, use AI to better recommend profiles, improve inclusivity for all parts of the LGBTQ+ spectrum," says newly appointed CEO of Cosmic Latte Milan Kovačič.

"This will make the apps even more user-friendly and, most importantly, improve the chances of users meeting a suitable match according to their preferences."

Launched in 2017, Zoe is the second most used dating site for lesbian, bisexual, and queer women around the world. While its "swipe right to 'like' and left to 'pass'" concept will be familiar, it's unique for its use of a personality testing algorithm that still allows users the space to focus on open communication and fostering real, romantic connections.

The premium version of the app offers 1-month, 3-month, and 12-month options, but many options are available also to a free account. 

With an overall high rating of 4.5 on AppStore, the reviews from the users are overwhelmingly positive, praising the app's friendly interface and advanced features that focus on communication.

Although Surge, launched in 2015, does not seem to be on the same level of popularity as Zoe, it is still listed in the top 10 apps for users looking for men. 

In the Czech Republic and around the world, safety and privacy concerns, along with discriminatory language, remain a lingering issue in many queer dating apps.

Several surge users have complained about the number of fake profiles and scammers on the website. Unlike Zoe, Surge does not verify users' photos and allows a simple registration via email, which could attribute to a large number of fake profiles.

At the same time, LGB (lesbian, gay, and bisexual) online daters generally report that their experiences with online dating have been positive – even more so than straight online daters, suggest findings of the PEW research center.

Kovačič sees room for improvement in the company's dating apps. "I see several areas where we can significantly improve, move the whole thing forward and become real leaders in dating apps for LGBTQ+ community," he said.

An added bonus: Both Zoe and Surge are English-friendly, offering a great alternative to those struggling with Czech online dating sites and apps.