Love digitally

"Yes, we have found that almost all Hong Kong couples have ended up with someone different (to who they thought they wanted), but this doesn't mean they don't know what they are looking for," says Kang. "There are things people stick to - for example, whether they want to have kids - these are elements you find out (about from) the get-go, and dating apps are a great way to meet people (who share your) values.

"But then, there are the non-essential requirements that it would be nice for (a partner) to have. Making that distinction is very important, but not always easy," she notes. "Users focus on looks and occupation because we can evaluate those very quickly, compared to something like honesty. There is no way around (the latter) - you need to take the time to assess it."

The solution, based on so many variables? Kang advises keeping an open mind.

Lucille McCart, Bumble's APAC communications director, agrees, adding that 43 percent of her global community describe their dating style in the pandemic as "exploratory", while 48 percent say they have reassessed their "type".