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Are you using a dating app? Does it seem like finding a good match is taking way too long? You’re not the only one feeling this way. Many people share this sentiment, and this year, a lot of users are looking for clearer answers. A recent study by the Indian dating app QuackQuack found that 37 percent of users in cities and towns are now opting for what is termed a “sunset clause. ” This means they have a set timeline for how long they plan to use dating apps before they will reconsider or leave the platform completely. The study, which interviewed 7,583 active users aged 22 to 35 from various cities, shows that the dating culture is becoming more aware and less tolerant of uncertainty. The concept is straightforward: dating apps are no longer just something you casually scroll through in between tasks or at night. Many singles from different cities are determining in advance how long they want to actively search for connections online, usually choosing a timeframe of six months to a year, or stating, “until I find the right person. ”

This change shows a rising awareness about time, emotional investment, and the exhaustion that comes with dating. Around 28 percent of those surveyed mentioned that having a thoughtful exit plan actually led to quicker and more meaningful connections since chats became more purposeful and less about showing off. In addition to the "sunset clause," 41 percent of users in 2026 believe that career pace, ambitions, and work-life balance significantly influence their choice of partner. As work becomes a bigger part of daily life, many users now consider discussions about goals and work schedules essential rather than optional. When nostalgia becomes a way to express love. For millennials over 30, the future feels much like the past. Three out of five millennial users from major cities are connecting over shared memories - music and pop culture from the 90s and early 2000s, childhood traditions, and dating habits before social media.

Around 18 percent of women and 11 percent of men aged 25 to 35 are now doing regular “connection reviews” every few weeks to assess their communication, emotional fulfillment, and if their expectations align with reality. Together, these developments indicate a dating culture that is finally moving away from endless uncertainty.