Select an option

It will remain in the same place

You finish the day, check your schedule, and discover a perfect spot for a good conversation, a cocktail, or maybe something more. Previously, finding company at the last minute meant sending messages to half your contact list and waiting for almost impromptu responses. Today, there are apps to get a quick date that specialize in a single objective: a meeting on the same day with people who are looking for exactly the same thing as you.

In the next few minutes, you'll learn which apps to use, how to configure them to speed up a real match, and the golden rules to follow for a safe and hassle-free experience.

Why “express dating” is the new normal

1. Geolocation algorithms – They show you users within 5 km who are willing to meet within a matter of hours.
2. Availability filters – “Free tonight” or “Today after 7 p.m.” tags that streamline logistics.
3. Facial/Video Verification – reduces fake profiles and generates immediate trust.
4. Culture on demand – The generation that orders food in 10 minutes wants to socialize with the same immediacy.

The result is an ecosystem where making a decision at 5 p.m. and toasting at 9 p.m. doesn't surprise anyone.

See also

• Want a date today? Use these apps
• Cheaper Luxo and Aluguel Premium Cars APPs
• Apps for cheaper luxury travel
• Diagnose your car in 30 seconds
• Find out who unfollowed you on social media

Four apps that are launching today (plus one more surprise)

1. Tinder — “I’m Going Out Today” Mode

How it works
Activate the "I'm free today" tag in Quick Settings. The algorithm prioritizes your profile over other users who have done the same in the last three hours.

The best

• Larger user base = more options.
• Real-time facial verification with selfie.
• “Suggest plan” button linked to Google Maps.

What you should know

• You'll need to filter carefully; some people mark "today" but really just want to chat.
• The Boost paid to compromise on peak-hour visibility, it may be worth the expense.

2. Bumble — “Tonight I'm Free” Filter

How it works
When you swipe, you will see a blue badge with the text TonightWhen there's a match, the woman must text first within 24 hours; if she does, both can use the new video chat feature and confirm a speed date.

Advantages

• More respectful conversations.
• 5-minute lightning video call without leaving the app.
• Expands the chat window if both are responding.

Points to improve

• If she doesn't send a message, the connection disappears.
• In small towns, the female user base may be limited.

3. Happn — “Crush Tonight”

How it works
It only shows you people who crossed the same street or were in the same coworking space that day. With the "Crush Tonight" feature, when you make a match, a 12-hour countdown timer appears, allowing you to either confirm or pass on the match.

Why it matters

• Very high probability of real and spontaneous proximity.
• Ideal for quick plans like “coffee after work.”

Limitations

• If you live in a town or residential area with little traffic, the app may lose power.
• It depends on both having constant GPS activated (more battery consumption).

4. Inner Circle — Last-minute events and curated list

How it works
It has a moderated and verified community: profiles with blurry photos or inconsistent information are rejected. In the tab Date Tonight Users willing to attend official events (afterworks, brunch, sunset) appear. You confirm with a tap and receive an access QR code.

The good

• More of a “social club” atmosphere than a mass app.
• Professional profiles (average age 27‑38, stable employment).
• Events with brand ambassadors in each city: extra security.

The not so good

• The free version restricts messages; a monthly subscription is worth it if you plan to use it.
• It only operates in capital cities and large cities.

Bonus: Facebook Dating — “Today’s Stories” Trick

Although Facebook Dating doesn't have an explicit "date today" button, many users post Stories with the text “I’m free tonight, who’s up for coffee?” Use a local hashtag search (#CoffeeToday, #QuickPlan) and send a polite message. Surprisingly high response rate in young college communities.

Checklist to ensure a meeting in less than 4 hours

1. Define plan and place– e.g.: “Craft beer in Malasaña at 8 p.m.”.
2. Update biography with a situational phrase: “Free this afternoon for rooftop.”
3. Upload a recent photo outdoors (generates confidence in availability).
4. Send first message with greeting + direct proposal + time.
5. Confirm 30 minutes before and share your arrival location.

Maximum security

• Flash video call (1-2 min) before leaving; confirm voice and surroundings.
• Public place and movement (shopping center, food market).
• Own transportation or rideshare; avoid getting into a stranger's car.
• Share the plan with a friend and activate “accompaniment mode” in WhatsApp or Maps.
• Exit code: Agree on a code word with your emergency contact.

Is it worth paying for premium features?

App	Premium Feature	Approx. price.	Does it speed up the appointment?
Tinder	Boost (30 min)	5 USD	Yes, double peak hour viewing
Bumble	Spotlight	5 USD	Yes, top of the stack for 30 min
Happn	Hello unlimited	10 USD/month	Useful if you cross a few people
Inner Circle	Unlimited messages + VIP events	20 USD/month	Yes, required for chat scheduling.

In large cities, a Boost It can be worth a fortune if you're short on time; in villages, you'll save money because there's less competition.

Express stories that inspire

• Raquel, 31 (Barcelona) used Bumble at 4pm, matched with Marc, video call at 5pm, gin and tonic at 8pm.
• Edu, 29 (Monterrey) asset Crush Tonight on Happn after class; they ran into each other at the same university and had tacos that night.
• Mariana, 34 (Lima) Inner Circle premiered on a Friday; confirmed at a rooftop event, she danced salsa with a new friend, and they scheduled dinner for Saturday.

Quick Questions

How long should I wait to order the number?
After agreeing on a location and verification, keep the chat in the app if you're still not comfortable.

What do I do if I regret it?
Cancel as soon as possible via chat with a brief apology; it's better than leaving them waiting.

Is it mandatory to wear a mask post-pandemic?
Check local regulations and the comfort of both; many establishments still require reservations.

Your plan starts now

You already know the tools and the rules. The rest is a matter of attitude. Open the app that best suits your city, show your availability, and send that first message. The night is young, and your date could be less than 5 kilometers away, waiting for a clear proposal. Go out and enjoy it!