Those threads made an interesting read. A general feeling i got is that random interactions, or interactions loosely based on common interests (like sports) are

Those threads made an interesting read. A general feeling i got is that random interactions, or interactions loosely based on common interests (like sports) are becoming less successful at making friends, because everyone is more guarded now, but also because people have an expectation of having a more 'tailored' matching processes. So their random interactions often end up frustrating. Interestingly, people who belong to a subculture report success - gay people have it better, but also swingers, another lifestyle (I would add to that the nudists as a very friend-seeking community). Online gaming seems to be a good venue for having that initial "match" of a common interest, as well as meetup groups. While i suspect most people find friends at work, it appears to be an unsatisfactory way for many to make lasting relationships. So, it appears that there is a genuine need here that can be filled by "something that looks a bit like dating". Maybe facebook should consider rolling out a 'friend finder' along with their dating feature. Nevertheless, it seems to have become less of a taboo to admit that people can't find friends, and it seems there is space here for social apps to cover.