Experts warn of disturbing new dating trend that’s set to become popular in 2026

From blind dates to Tinder dates, ghosting to love-bombing, there's always a new term or trend going on in the dating world, and 2026 is set to be no different.

As they have since the dawn of time, people will continue to seek partners - whether it's for life or just one night - and with the new year now fast approaching, dating experts have revealed what kind of landscape is in store for those who are looking for love.

Using insights from thousands of daters around the world, dating app happn has announced its trends that are set to 'redefine the dating scene in 2026', and they include everything from 'sex-care' to allies.

But while some of the trends hark back at simpler times, like a shift back to 'genuine gestures' such as a home-cooked meal, there's one trend in particular that is an unnerving glimpse into the future.

Dating isn't going anywhere, but the trends are changing (Getty Stock Photo)

The rise of the 'AI situationship'

We already know that artificial intelligence is creeping more and more into our daily lives, but dating app happn predicts that it will soon become a common part of the dating world as single people use chatbots as 'a form of emotional training'.

We're not expecting everyone to suddenly shack up with a robot, but instead, the experts have suggested that AI bots will serve as 'emotional mirrors, spaces for dialogue and attentive listening'.

According to happn, 41 percent of UK respondents from a study said they'd be okay with their partner having a close relationship as AI, while 43 percent said they'd feel uncomfortable at the prospect, and 16 percent would consider it emotional cheating.

With this in mind, experts warned that the varying opinions point to 'issues in the quality of our human connection, with discussions around AI’s use in relationships raising questions about conflict, frustration and reciprocity, essential components of any real relationship'.

They added: "In 2026, AI will help to prepare users for connection, by providing a space to explore one’s feelings before applying them in real life. However, there is a fine line between help and dependence: if AI can teach people how to love, they will still need to relearn how to love without it."

People are expected to utilise AI in their dating lives (Getty Stock Photo)

What other dating trends will emerge in 2026?

As well as an increased reliance on AI, experts have predicted that 'sex care' will be on the rise, with sex considered as a 'form of wellbeing' as daters focus on listening to their bodies, reconnecting with themselves, and managing stress through their sexual practices.

We'll see 'allies on the rise' as more men are expected to challenge toxic masculinity, as well as increased discussions around money, with 28 percent of the study's respondents saying it's essential that they date someone with similar financial values.

Finally, singletons are set to reconnect with dating on a more sincere level, with behavior shifting towards genuine, romantic gestures like flowers and love notes instead of confusing DMs.

People want more romance in 2026 (Getty Stock Photo)

What do the dating trend predictions mean?

Claire Rénier, dating expert at happn, broke down the meaning of the trends as she explained: “In 2026, amid an ever-changing cultural, technological and financial environment, there’s a noticeable focus on both the past and present.

"From an increased search for gender equality, to a wider usage of AI for dating assistance, singles are taking inspiration from a range of sources - even their own pleasure as a form of wellbeing. Whilst the dating landscape is constantly evolving, it's encouraging to see singles leave no stone unturned in their search for the one.”