Netflix and Zoom is the new Netflix and chill

Netflix and chill is over. You cannot simply show up to bae's house if you are not quarantining together. But fear not, for a new activity has risen from the ashes of Netflix and chill: Netflix and Zoom.

We've entered an unprecedented time in the dating landscape, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing need to practice social distancing. And with this unprecedented time has come unprecedented action.

When I wrote about how online dating has changed in the 2010s and mused about how it would change even further in the 2020s, I had no idea that this is what awaited all of us at the turn of this new decade.

Dating apps and websites have already reshaped how we meet people, but now the pandemic is pushing them to be at the forefront of facilitating dates, as well. Some dating apps like Plenty of Fish have instated video chat features, while others like Bumble have seen increases in video chat and calls. For example, there's been a 21% increase in Bumble Voice Chat and Video Call usage since mid-March, a Bumble representative told Mashable.

The pandemic has not only changed how we date, however. It's upended our relationship dynamics entirely in every aspect of our lives: work, family, friends, and love.

If a couple is quarantining together, that's one thing. But what if they're not? From "haven't even DTR'd yet" to "have been seeing each other frequently for months" to "a long-term relationship but not cohabitating," couples in different phases of their relationship have to navigate spending an indefinite amount of time apart.

This is where Netflix and Zoom comes in.

Hear me out. Zoom isn't just for conferences and webinars and work meetings — not anymore! Netflix and Zoom — essentially, watching Netflix (or streaming provider of your choice) then Zoom chatting/sexing with your partner — can act as the new date night. At its worst, it'll allow you to take your mind off the pandemic for a couple hours. At its best, you can bond with your partner even if they're miles away.

I know, it's not the same as Netflix and chill. But think of it this way: With Netflix and Zoom, you can still see and get off with your partner, but you are saving lives while doing it and don't have to leave the house. Social distancing is our current normal, so set aside time dedicated to not freaking out about it (easier said than done, but possible) and relax with your partner. There's already been at least one Zoom sex party, so the possibilities are truly endless.

So go ahead: set up the Netflix Party Chrome extension or go without it, and start a call with your partner. You can even change your Zoom background to something particularly erotic.