Dating-related internet searches surge as singles seek companionship Singles eager to date For many who feared in-person conversation and physical contact with a new acquaintance before both parties received their vaccine shots, the summer of 2021 offers a crash course in relearning how to date. NEW YORK - For many who feared in-person conversation and physical contact with a new acquaintance before both parties received their vaccine shots, the summer of 2021 offers a crash course in relearning how to date. Google saw "dating" searches reach a five-year high this summer, with queries for "top dating apps" and "dating apps for older people" surging more than 3,300% in the last month.