Lex

Lex is a dating and social app launched in 2019 for lesbian, bisexual, asexual, transgender, nonbinary, and queer people. Founder Kell Rakowski built it out of Personals, an Instagram account that reposted text-only ads in the style of classic queer publications like On Our Backs and The Village Voice. Lex puts words first and photos second, an intentional break from image-heavy apps like Tinder and Grindr. The goal is connection built on personality, voice, and wit rather than appearance. It has raised millions in funding and been recognized as a top Pride app. Over time Lex has leaned toward community and friendship, not only dating, a shift that has drawn both praise and criticism from users.