It's no secret that long-distance relationships are tough AF.
But technology gives you the option to close a lot of the gaps that make being far away from your partner seem so daunting.
Here's just a few of the best tools for staying close even when you're far.
1. Without
4/5 Rating, Free
This adorable app was designed by a long-distance couple for long-distance couples. It tracks your time apart and gives you sweet and simple options for staying connected through messages and photos.
Get it for iOS.
2. Couple
4.5/5 Rating, Free (with in-app purchases)
Create your own private social network for just the two of you! Having your own world where you can save pictures, share updates, and chat with your partner will keep you feeling close even when you're far apart. The app's biggest draw is its adorable ThumbKiss feature, which lets you connect with your partner by touching your phones in the same place and sharing a little buzz.
3. TouchRoom
4/5 Rating, Free
If you like the idea of the Couple app's ThumbKiss but don't need all the other trappings of a social network, go for this sweet little app. TouchRoom lets you invite anyone into your room and when you overlap dots, your phone buzzes at the same time, even if you're on the other side of the world. It provides a cute sense of physical closeness even when you're away.
Get it for iOS.
4. TheIceBreak
4.5/5 Rating, £1.49
This lovely app keeps you and your partner emotionally close even when you're physically far. By asking questions that help you get to know each other and keep your chats fresh, the app brings you closer and helps you rack up a score (aka vouchers) that you can cash in when you finally get together.
Get it for iOS.
5. LokLok
4/5 Rating, Free
Surprise your partner anytime with this cute app that allows you to send a doodle straight to someone special's lock screen. It's a sweet way to say you're thinking about them even when you're not able to connect for a full conversation.
Get it for Android.
6. Between
4.5/5 Rating, Free (with in-app purchases)
This handy app lets you keep track of your relationship through photos, private chats, and shared calendars. It also keeps you posted on the weather and time for wherever your partner is.
Get it for Android.
7. Skype Qik
3.5/5 Rating, Free
You're probably well aware that you need basic Skype to keep up with each other while you're apart, but did you know you can use the auxiliary Skype Qik app to send video messages even if you can't get find time to schedule a webcam date? The simple app is a great way to share little moments even if you can't get on the same schedule.
9. Klikaklu
3/5 Rating, Free
Send your S/O on a customised scavenger hunt with Klikaklu. You can set paths, send secret messages, and create a date-like experience even if you can't be there together.
Get it for iOS.
10. Cartolina
3.5/5 Rating, £1.49
Mix up your regular text thread by sending these beautifully designed and customisable digital postcards. Cartolina will help you create sweet and stunning messages to warm your partner's heart and make them feel a little bit special.
Get it for iOS.
11. Touchnote
5/5 Rating, Free
Get really creative by sending your partner real, tangible postcards! Touchnote helps you do it with ease – download the app and select photos from your camera roll, add a message and your partner's address, and the app will print a real life postcard and send it off to your S/O. Sweet, right?
12. Long Distance
No Ratings, Free
This splendid new app is all about keeping you and your partner close and offering support while you're apart. The app includes a countdown feature as well Wi-Fi-enabled chat and calling, as well as offering toggles to read quotes and blogs about maintaining long-distance relationships, so you don't feel alone in the struggle.
Get it for iOS.
13. Avocado
2/5 Rating, £10.99/year
Avocado is one of the most popular apps for couples near and far. It makes private photo and location sharing, chats, and scheduling incredibly simple. With a shared photo stream, calendar, and to-do list, you two can stay in sync no matter how far you are! Based on reviews, the app performs much better on Android devices than Apple, so try a three-month subscription for £4 to see if it works for you.
14. Path
4.5/5 Rating, Free
This private social network is a lot like Facebook, but circles can only be accessed by invitation, and it lets you monitor who has access to shared photos, messages, status updates, etc. It's the perfect app for couples who aren't just missing each other while one lives far away and want to keep a strong circle of friends and family in addition to their partner.
16. Dreamdays
17. We-Connect
3/5 Rating, Toy sets from £106
If you're a really physical couple, We-Connect is the way to go. The sex toy duo can be remote-controlled from an app, which means having an ~effect~ on your partner from halfway around the world just became a whole lot easier. The app allows you to control the speed and rhythm of the toys so you can keep on connecting.
