Absence may make the heart grow fonder, but it can also be a strain on your relationship. Luckily, technology has made navigating long-distance relationships a bit easier. There are plenty more options to use than just FaceTime; in fact, there's now an abundance of apps geared at long-distance couples, though that doesn't mean all of them are helpful.
Over the past month, I tested 5 of the all-time best apps (and 5 trending apps) to help you stay more connected than ever. You can watch movies together with Wever, strengthen your relationship with quizzes from Paired, or even update a digital locket from Locket Widget to share little moments throughout the day.
Keep on reading to find your next best app for your long-distance relationship.
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Best apps FOR
long-distance couples
1. Signal
Secure messaging, no matter where you are
Texting has become an essential part of a long-distance relationship, especially when traveling abroad or maintaining a relationship across borders. WhatsApp was once the gold standard for long-distance messaging, but I grew wary of the app after it was purchased by Meta, which led to concerns about the longterm security of user data. Luckily, a more trustworthy alternative exists in Signal.
Image: Kevin Kearney | WhistleOut
Signal is one of our picks for the best messaging apps on the market. It boasts end-to-end encryption, meaning your messages remain safe and secure. If you decide to delete them, they will actually be deleted. Those details are why Signal is primarily known as a trusted resource for journalists and activists, but it's just as useful for long-distance couples looking to stay in touch. Signal has more robust messaging than Apple's iMessage (including the capability for much larger group chats) and better safeguards than the video-messaging of Instagram or Snapchat.
The app is also owned and operated by the non-profit Signal Foundation, ensuring that it remains committed to privacy and security. Unlike other popular messaging apps, Signal isn't interested in harvesting the data of your relationship—they're interested in protecting it.
The verdict:
- User experience
- Price and value
- Efficacy
- Practicality
- Privacy & security
International long-distance? Check your plan
If your partner is overseas, make sure your phone plan can keep up. While apps like Signal and Marco Polo work over Wi-Fi, you'll need solid mobile data when you're on the go—and international roaming charges can add up fast.
Smart moves for international couples: Look for plans with free international texting, affordable international calling rates, or travel passes for when you visit. Compare international roaming options or check out travel SIM cards to stay connected without the shocking bill.
Here are the top plans that include international features:
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#1
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Visible
$25 Visible Plan
$25.00/mo
Taxes & Fees included
|
|
#2
|
Mint Mobile
Unlimited Data Plan
$25.00/mo
$75.00 upfront payment for 3 months (equals to $25.00/month). Intro pricing for new customers only.
|
|
#3
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XFINITY Mobile
Mobile Select Plan
$0.00/mo
(for the first year of service) <br>Regular rate of $30/mo. thereafter
|
2. Wever
Binge-watch together from separate couches
Even if you're thousands of miles apart, that doesn't mean you have to watch the latest season of your favorite show alone. (In fact, some couples might consider that cheating!) Sure, you could hop on FaceTime and cue your respective streamers up, but that's a headache that often doesn't even work. I recommend using Wever instead.
Image: Kevin Kearney | WhistleOut
There's no shortage of "watch party" apps and options, but I like the simplicity and access Wever provides. Unlike Teleparty or Amazon's Watch Party, the app doesn't require every participant to log into a streaming account. Instead, the host can create a private room where they can stream from their Netflix or YouTube account. Inviting your partner is easy: Just text or email the room's link. Once they've joined, you can both chat along with the video in real time, no matter where they are.
The verdict:
- User experience
- Price and value
- Efficacy
- Practicality
- Privacy & security
Android alternative: Rave
If you or your partner use Android, Wever won't work for you—but don't worry, Rave fills that gap nicely. Like Wever, Rave lets you watch Netflix, YouTube, and other streaming services together in real-time with built-in voice and text chat. It's free from the Google Play Store and works across Android and iOS, making it perfect for mixed-device couples.
3. TimeTree
Get back on the same page with this shared calendar
One of the more difficult parts of doing long distance is making space to catch up. Work, family, and time zones can get in the way if you don't actively plan for dedicated relationship time. TimeTree makes planning a breeze, with a shared calendar, expansive options for creating events, and a number of other features for long-distance romantics.
You could create a shared Google Calendar, of course, but TimeTree offers more, including chat rooms for events, shared to-do lists, and a sleeker interface. You can also sync the app with your default Android/iOS calendar, bringing multiple calendars into one clean control center.
Image: Kevin Kearney | WhistleOut
Schedule a FaceTime date or a movie session, or set a reminder to wish your partner luck on the day of a big work event. No matter what you deem worth of a calendar event, TimeTree allows long-distance couples to stay aligned even when they're on opposite sides of the country or the globe.
The verdict:
- User experience
- Price and value
- Efficacy
- Practicality
- Privacy & security
Stay connected with cheap unlimited data
Long-distance relationships mean constant video calls, movie streaming, and photo sharing—all of which can devour your data plan. An unlimited data plan lets you stay connected without worrying about overage charges or running out of data before the end of the month.
Check out the most popular unlimited data plans below:
|
#1
|
Visible
$25 Visible Plan
$25.00/mo
Taxes & Fees included
|
|
#2
|
Mint Mobile
Unlimited Data Plan
$25.00/mo
$75.00 upfront payment for 3 months (equals to $25.00/month). Intro pricing for new customers only.
|
|
#3
|
XFINITY Mobile
Mobile Select Plan
$0.00/mo
(for the first year of service) <br>Regular rate of $30/mo. thereafter
|
4. Paired
Quizzes and games from relationship experts
Being physically apart can exaggerate other problems in a relationship, causing couples to feel emotionally distant as well. Paired tries to nip that problem in the bud, offering opportunities for couples to build trust, intimacy, and strength through its guided reflections and relationship-themed games.
Image: Kevin Kearney | WhistleOut
I know what you're thinking: Okay, sounds great, but I can Google a few listicles with relationship questions. Fair enough. The key difference with Paired is that these aren't randomly assembled prompts; they're constructed by relationship clinicians and counselors who aim to improve communication, vulnerability, and intimacy. The app prompts you and your partner to participate in exercises that work towards your shared goals. This isn't a way to pass the time; it's a way to get more out of it.
The basic app is free, while the premium version allows you to access over 1,000 questions and exercises. You can try the premium version for free for seven days if you like, but I recommend playing around with the free version before you open your wallet.
The verdict:
- User experience
- Price and value
- Efficacy
- Practicality
- Privacy & security
Your phone matters too
Video calling, screen sharing, and running multiple apps simultaneously works best on a phone that can handle it. If your current phone struggles with FaceTime or overheats during long video calls, it might be time for an upgrade.
You don't need the latest flagship model for top-notch quality. Many mid-range phones offer excellent cameras and processing power for video calls at a fraction of the cost. Check out the best phone deals to find a device that keeps you connected without breaking the bank.
Browse the most popular devices on the market:
Moto G 5G (2025) 128GB
- 6.7 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 2MP
- Front Camera: 16MP
Moto G 5G (2026) 128GB
- 6.7 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 2MP
- Front Camera: 32MP
Galaxy A26 5G
- 6.7 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 8MP, 2MP
- Front Camera: 13MP
5. Plato
Low-key party games to keep it light
Sometimes, the best thing you can do for a long-distance relationship is spend some much-needed fun time together, even if that means virtually. The COVID-19 pandemic gave rise to a number of party game apps, though most of them charge annual subscriptions. Plato is different, with dozens of free multiplayer games accessible to anyone who downloads the app.
Image: Kevin Kearney | WhistleOut
Reminiscent of the simple web-based games of the early 2000s, Plato allows users to futz around with Pool, Table Soccer, a handful of card games, and a number of adventure-themed narratives. Similarly to the games, you can download and play on iMessage. All you need to do is pick a game, create a room, then invite your partner. If you're not interested in creating one more log-in, you don't need to: Plato allows you to play with an anonymous handle.
It's not the most sophisticated app, and hardcore gamers will probably scoff at the design and gameplay, but I'm guessing you're not here to learn about the cutting edge. For couples looking to pass the time in one another's virtual company, it hits the mark.
The verdict:- User experience
- Price and value
- Efficacy
- Practicality
- Privacy & security
Trending apps
worth trying
Couple Joy
Fun games to spark a connection
Couple Joy combines relationship quizzes, mood tracking, and customizable widgets to keep you connected—on the daily. You and your partner answer questions separately—everything from lighthearted ("What's your favorite pizza topping?") to deeper relationship topics—then compare your answers. When you match, you level up and unlock new challenges or sweet messages to send each other.
Image: Jessica Santero | WhistleOut
Getting started is super simple. The app generates a unique code that you send to your partner to link your accounts. Once connected, you can dive into daily questions and games. The "Never Have I Ever" questions are super fun for sparking conversations and learning surprising things about each other, even if you've been together for years.
Image: Jessica Santero | WhistleOut
There are even widgets that display how long you've been together, the distance between you, and messages from your partner right on your home screen. It's like a daily check-in that feels fun rather than forced. The free version gives you a taste, but if you want more features, you'll need to spring for the unlimited subscription.
Locket Widget
Open the locket on your home screen.
Locket Widget puts your partner's photos directly on your lock screen or home screen. When they snap a pic with the app, it instantly appears on your phone. It's perfect for those "thinking of you" moments: a coffee shop selfie, a funny sign they passed, or just a quick smile to brighten your day. There's no feed to scroll through, no algorithm deciding what you see. Just you, your partner, and spontaneous little updates that make the distance feel smaller.
Image: Google Play Store
There's a catch: The free version limits how many photos you can send per day, and you can't select photos from your gallery (it's live shots only). But honestly, that spontaneity is part of what makes it special.
Marco Polo
Play tag with video messages.
Marco Polo is video messaging that feels more personal than texting, but doesn't require you both to be free at the same time. Send a video message when it's convenient for you, and your partner can watch and respond when it works for them. It's like leaving video voicemails, but way less awkward. You can rewatch messages, which helps preserve memories, and the app supports a mix of text, voice, and video, so conversations feel varied and natural.
Image: Google Play Store
This is top for couples dealing with different work schedules or living in different time zones. No more "sorry, I missed your call" guilt; just meaningful video updates on your own time.
Between
You and your partner's personal space
Between creates a private digital space just for the two of you. It combines messaging, a shared calendar, countdown timers for your next reunion, and a "memory box" where you can store photos, voice messages, and special moments. Think of it as your relationship's personal social network.
Image: Google Play Store
The countdown feature is especially convenient with long-distance couples who need that visual reminder of when they'll see each other next. The app also includes cute stickers and the ability to track anniversaries, making it easy to celebrate milestones together.
Bunch
Chat and play at the same time.
Bunch (formerly Bunch Party) lets you video chat while playing multiplayer games together. That includes trivia, drawing games, or even party classics like Heads Up. Your partner's face stays on screen the whole time, so you get to see their reactions as they crush you at trivia or completely butcher a drawing.
Image: Google Play Store
It's casual, fun, and low-pressure, making it perfect for when you just want to hang out together. The app is free, but some individual games within it have in-app purchases.
Reality check: Do you really need "couple apps"?
The truth is, you don't need specialized couple apps to maintain a long-distance relationship. Many couples get by perfectly fine with the basics: Discord for voice and video, WhatsApp or Signal for messaging, and Google Calendar for planning. In fact, some people prefer keeping things simple rather than adding another login to remember.
That said, specialized apps can add value in specific situations. If you're struggling with time zones, an app like TimeTree or Between with its countdown timers can help you feel more connected. If you need conversation starters, Paired or Couple Joy might be worth trying. The key is figuring out what your relationship actually needs, not what some listicle (okay, including this one) tells you to download.
Our recommendation? Start with the mainstream tools you already use. If you find yourself wishing for specific features—like a shared calendar that's more couple-focused, or a way to watch movies together without the hassle—then explore the specialized options. Don't feel pressure to use every app on this list. Pick one or two that solve real problems or struggles in your relationship, and skip the rest.
How we picked the best apps
-
User experience & ease of use
We tested each app to ensure it's intuitive from the moment you download it—no complicated setup or confusing interfaces. -
Price & value
We prioritized apps with robust free versions and evaluated whether premium features justify their price tags, so you're not paying for bells and whistles you don't need. -
Privacy & data security
We checked each app's data collection practices and encryption standards to make sure your intimate conversations stay private. -
Real-world effectiveness
We analyzed user reviews, community feedback from Reddit and relationship forums, and tested features ourselves to see what actually helps couples stay connected.
Best apps for long-distance relationships: FAQs
Jessica Santero
Staff Writer
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