In an era ruled by algorithms and instant gratification, dating has become both easier and more complicated than ever. To mark the first anniversary of Viber Dating, Rakuten Viber has unveiled its inaugural State of Modern Dating report — a deep dive into how relationships are forming in the digital age and what singles truly want beyond the swipe.

Drawing from anonymized user data and voluntary surveys conducted in 2025, including insights from the Philippines, the report paints a revealing portrait of how courtship is evolving. While profile photos may spark initial interest, it is sincerity and substance that ultimately keep conversations alive. Users who present themselves honestly — sharing hobbies, quirks and personal values — tend to stand out more than those who rely solely on curated images.

The findings suggest that while attraction may start with a glance, it progresses through meaningful exchanges. Thoughtful replies and aligned intentions matter more than rapid-fire matching. In fact, a majority of users say they are seeking committed relationships rather than casual encounters, signaling a shift away from endless browsing toward purposeful connection.

Privacy also plays a crucial role, particularly for women. Around 65 percent of female respondents cited stronger privacy controls as their top priority. Features that allow users to conceal their dating profiles from specific contacts — whether former partners or coworkers — ranked among the most appreciated tools, underscoring how digital romance must balance openness with discretion.

Interest-based compatibility remains a powerful conversation starter. Animal lovers dominate among women, with dogs and cats topping their listed passions, while men frequently mention basketball and football. Astrology continues to color the dating discourse as well, with Leo, Capricorn and Aquarius receiving the most “likes,” while Sagittarius, Libra and Virgo are reportedly more selective in their swiping habits.

Timing, it seems, is also everything. Sunday and Monday evenings emerged as peak hours for activity, suggesting that as a new week begins, so does renewed hope for connection.

Launched on Valentine’s Day 2025 within the Viber app in the Philippines, Viber Dating was designed to extend the platform’s ecosystem beyond messaging into matchmaking. Over the past year, it has become a notable component of Rakuten Viber’s broader ambition to function as a lifestyle “super app.”

For Nadav Melnick, Rakuten Viber’s Chief Product Officer, the data affirms a simple truth: technology may facilitate introductions, but intention sustains relationships. The report, he says, is not merely about metrics and match rates, but about understanding how genuine bonds are built in a digital world.

As modern dating continues to evolve, one message rings clear: behind every profile is a person seeking more than a clever opener. In today’s landscape, authenticity is not just attractive, it is essential.