A new app called Cuddlr, or the "sex-free Tinder," as some are calling it, is for those who simply want to find someone to snuggle with.
Yup, you read that right. An app to finding a snuggling partner has hit the App Store. What's next? An app to find someone who'll scratch your back?
Cuddlr provides users other user's names, pictures and ratings in the form of upvotes and downvotes from previous cuddling partners.
And you thought Match.com was tough.
The way it works is that users scroll through potential cuddling partners and then tap on a photo to send a cuddling request. The other user has 15 minutes to either accept or reject the request. If they accept it, messages can be exchanged and locations even tracked.
Once the two users meet they can do whatever they want, although the developers of the app suggest keeping things platonic.
"I think as a culture we're ready to consider cuddling as more than just something that happens before or after sex, but as something worth pursuing in its own right," says Cuddlr founder Charlie Williams.
While the app seems harmless, it is not unthinkable that someone could join the app with the intention of doing more than just cuddling, which is why certain guidelines are recommended.
"It is possible to report someone who cuddles inappropriately, and we encourage first-time pairs to do their cuddling in a public place," continued Williams.
Does that mean Starbucks will soon have its own "snuggling corner"?
The fact that users only have 15 minutes to reply to requests is an integral part of how the app works, say the developers.
"On Cuddlr, you get together straight away, have a little cuddle, and then part ways," said Williams. "If you want to hang out again, you can exchange information then and there -- but you already know what kind of cuddles they give."
Cuddlr is actually intended for much more than just cuddling, however.
The creators want people to think more about physical touch, how it makes people feel and what it means to be touched on a regular basis. The team argues there doesn't have to be a stigma surrounding physical touch and it does not have to be sexual. In other cultures, for example, it is perfectly acceptable for straight men to hold hands. Even in the U.S. culture we offer hugs to those who are sad.
Not only that, but it has also been proven that physical touch between humans is healthy. Physical touch releases oxytocin, a hormone that research shows reduces stress and improves communication, trust and attachment.
Cuddlr is currently available for free on iOS and an Android version is set to be released soon.
Let the cuddling begin.
