New Dating App “Cope” Matches New Yorkers by Favorite Excuse for Flaking
In a bold attempt to meet New Yorkers exactly where they are—chronically overwhelmed, semi-employed, and emotionally avoidant—a new dating app called Cope has entered the scene.
Unlike traditional dating apps that match users by interests, appearance, or even political alignment, Cope uses an algorithm that pairs people based on their go-to excuse for bailing on plans at the last second.
“We realized people weren’t looking for love. They were looking for someone who wouldn’t take it personally when they canceled dinner because Mercury is in Gatorade,” said Cope founder and former situationship survivor, Talya Winestein.
Top flake types currently trending:
“I’m swamped”: Ideal for people who carry a laptop everywhere but only use it to stream Love Island.
“Migraine”: The classy cancel—respectable, vague, and difficult to question.
“Just Not Feeling It”: A bold, nihilistic choice. Often paired with astrology memes and French 75s.
Other rising excuses include “My roommate’s going through something,” “I need a me night,” and “Oops, thought I texted you back but didn’t.”
Beta testers are raving:
“I matched with someone who also gets anxiety about confirming plans too early. We’ve been not seeing each other for three weeks now.”
—Lila, 29, Upper East Side
“He canceled on me using my exact excuse. I’ve never felt more seen.”
—Jayden, 33, Bushwick
When asked about monetization, Cope’s founders confirmed their premium tier—Cope+—includes curated “plausible excuses” you can auto-send, such as:
“I had therapy and it brought up some stuff.”
“My boss scheduled a 7PM Zoom, can you believe?”
“I need to prioritize myself right now.”
According to internal data, Cope users rarely meet in person, but many report “an incredibly deep bond based on mutual guilt and relief.”
The app’s next planned feature? A built-in “ghosting mutual” button, so you can both disappear without anyone having to feel bad.
Cope is available for download now, unless you’re “taking a social media break.” In that case, we understand. No pressure.