Once a signifier of luxury or novelty, custom products and services are now within reach of the everyday consumer, thanks to the rise of artificial intelligence, algorithm-led platforms, and the COVID-era digitisation boom. Today, everyone wants to be the main character of their brand experience.

Offering an alternative to the high-speed swipe culture of modern dating, Jigsaw brings a fresh approach to finding love by encouraging meaningful and authentic connections. In an oversaturated and competitive dating landscape, can considerate apps provide users with a greater sense of connection?

Memes are synonymous with Gen Z communication and dating app Schmooze is using them to match potential partners. As people experience swipe fatigue, using memes to connect people via collective cultural moments and tropes taps into a love of absurdist humor.

People are moving away from the mass market of mainstream dating apps. In their wake, niche interest websites such as Letterboxd, Goodreads, and subreddit threads are providing singles with a less performative and more personal approach to romance.

The pandemic has shown that many people experience extreme loneliness despite having access to online support networks and virtual events. Canvas8 spoke to Dr. Luke Fernandez and Dr. Susan Matt to understand emotional and social fulfillment, and what it means in the digital age.