We love an app that cuts the bullshit. In this case, the bullshit includes cisgender straight men. Lex (short for Lexicon, formerly known as Personals) is a seriously cool social app for queer, trans, gender non-conforming, two spirit, and non-binary people.
The specific demographic positions Lex to offer a more peaceful experience than “everyone” apps like Tinder and Bumble, but the way it goes about introducing users (as lovers or friends) is what makes it extra special. A nod to ’80s and ’90s lesbian erotica magazines, Lex users meet by posting personal ads about what (or who) they’re looking for, relationship-wise. The ads, called personals, are a chance for users to showcase their wit and be straightforward as hell. Personals can get pretty horny, but it’s all about the language — no photos, including selfies, are permitted. Users can link an Instagram account if they want.
The traditional swipe-and-match process? Lex doesn’t know her. It operates similarly to Craigslist: If you see an ad that appeals to you, answer it. If you’re over the tired dynamic of awkwardly testing the waters with a shy hottie you just matched with, you might appreciate how much backstory Lex supplies before a word is exchanged. If someone’s interested in starting a band or planning a protest rather than having sex, they can — and both of those have happened, founder Kell Rakowski told Allure.