As we reach the end of 2025, it’s clear that the landscape of love and relationships is constantly evolving. In a world where LGBTQ+ rights are being questioned and demonized, it’s heartening to see that people are still exploring their identities and embracing their true selves. This is especially true on dating app Feeld, which has recently collaborated with Dr. Luke Brunning, a lecturer in Applied Ethics at the University of Leeds and an expert in Philosophy of Love, Sex, and Relationships.
Despite the aggressive pushback against LGBTQ+ rights, Feeld has revealed some heartening news – that our gender and sexual identities are becoming more flexible and fluid than ever before. This trend is evident across all generations, from Gen Z to Millennials to Gen X.
In fact, according to Feeld’s data, the fastest-growing sexuality on the app this year is ‘heteroflexible’, with a staggering 193% increase in members identifying as such. This suggests that curiosity and exploration are becoming more culturally acceptable, especially among younger users.
Feeld’s data also reveals that Millennials make up almost two-thirds of the total heteroflexible members, followed by Gen Z at 18% and Gen X at 15.5%. This suggests that the idea of being ‘heteroflexible’ is most popular among the younger generations, who are more open-minded and accepting of fluid sexual identities.
Dr. Brunning explains that for some, identifying as heteroflexible accurately reflects how they experience attraction and behave. But for others, it may be more of a promise to themselves – something they want to explore further or hope to experience in the future.
While this trend towards flexibility and fluidity offers some freedom, Dr. Brunning notes that it may also come with criticism. For some, any deviation from the heterosexual norm is viewed negatively, particularly for men who struggle with bi-erasure. And for others, particularly those firmly within the queer community, heteroflexibility may be viewed with suspicion as a reluctance to fully embrace their true bisexuality or as a sign of internalized homophobia.
But despite the potential challenges, it’s important to remember that everyone’s journey towards self-discovery and acceptance is unique. It’s encouraging to see that more and more people are feeling empowered to explore their identities and embrace their true selves, regardless of societal expectations or pressures.
For those who are struggling with their identity or facing backlash for their sexual orientation, there are resources available to offer support and guidance. Organizations like the London Lesbian & Gay switchboard (LLGS) and the Manchester Lesbian and Gay Switchboard provide free, confidential support and information for LGBTQ+ communities in the UK. The Stonewall organization also offers information and resources on other LGBT services and helplines.
It’s clear that the concept of ‘heteroflexibility’ is becoming more widely accepted and embraced, offering a sense of freedom and fluidity for those who identify as such. As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of love and relationships, let’s remember to support and celebrate all identities and expressions of love. After all, love is love, regardless of how we choose to label it.
