[foo_foo_can_do]

I don't think an app can ever overcome the personal and cultural forces at work here. I've seen people who can make great friends over any medium imaginable, and others who remain lonely despite having every opportunity. I don't believe it's the failure of the apps, rather look to the culture to see how friendships are valued and formed.

I see my generation has no value of 'friendship'; friendship as a serious commitment which has benefits and responsibilities. People want a convenient way to not feel too lonely, without giving up an ounce of personal convenience.

I've begun to have a conversation with new people I meet at the first or second meeting, beginning with "what does friendship mean?". Then you can set your expectations at the beginning rather than setting yourself up for disappointment. This will also scare away people who don't want a commitment, so prepare for that.

Aside: I recently noted that Germans seem to have a real value of friendship. I have two german friends who check-in, and plan things on a regular basis, and clearly have a place in their brain reserved for considering how they can build their friendships, and I've heard the same anecdote often. I'm from Quebec originally, and there also saw the huge gap between anglo relationships and francophone ones (francos keep in touch).

[beardyw]

Yes, I was going to say that making and keeping friends is to do with paying attention to it. If there is an app it is a to do app.