4 Million Indians on Extramarital Apps: Why More Women Are Joining Than Ever

India’s digital habits are evolving fast, and platforms like Gleeden are seeing record growth. The app has now crossed 4 million users in India.

What’s more striking is who’s joining. Women registrations have surged by 148% in just two years. While men still make up 65% of users, women now account for 35%—a sign of changing mindsets.

Experts say this isn’t just about affairs. It reflects how more women are choosing to focus on their emotional needs and personal happiness.

Big Cities, Busy Lives—and Growing Distance

The trend is strongest in metro cities where fast lifestyles often leave little room for relationships.

• Bengaluru leads with 18% users, driven by corporate stress and migrant life
• Hyderabad (17%) follows with its tech-heavy workforce
• Delhi (11%) and Mumbai (9%) also show high activity

In these cities, people often balance demanding careers and personal lives—sometimes leading to emotional gaps.

Not Just Affairs—People Are Talking to AI Too

A surprising trend in 2026 is the rise of AI companions.

Nearly 49% of users have interacted with AI romantic bots, and most are not looking for physical relationships. Instead, 58% say they want emotional connection—someone to talk to, share feelings with, or simply feel understood.

For many, AI offers comfort without the risks of real-life complications.

It’s Not Just Late Nights—Afternoons Matter Too

These apps are not only used secretly at night. Data shows two clear peak times:

• Lunch hours (12 PM – 3 PM): A quick mental escape during work
• Late nights (10 PM – 12 AM): Quiet time for private conversations

This reflects how people are fitting emotional needs into their busy schedules.

Why Are People Looking Outside Their Relationships?

Experts point to a growing issue called “time poverty.”

Long working hours, family duties, and daily stress leave little space for meaningful connection. Many people feel unheard or emotionally distant in their relationships.

Digital platforms then become an easy way to feel noticed, valued, or excited again.

A Quiet Shift in Modern Relationships

In India, marriage has always been seen as a lifelong bond. But changing lifestyles, increasing independence, and digital access are slowly reshaping this idea.

This trend is not just about infidelity—it reveals something deeper:
People today are searching for time, attention, and emotional connection in a fast-moving world.