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. 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.
Launched in , 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 month options, but many options are available also to a free account.
With an overall high rating of 4. Although Surge, launched in , 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. An added bonus: Both Zoe and Surge are English-friendly, offering a great alternative to those struggling with Czech online dating sites and apps.
