People who have Internet access at home are more likely to be in a relationship, with the Web gaining in importance as a meeting place for those seeking love, according to US research.

Researchers from Stanford University said the Internet is especially important for bringing together same-sex couples and may soon replace friends as the main way in which Americans meet their partners.

Dating is difficult, whether you are straight or gay, a divorcee with kids or a fresh-faced teen.

Enter online dating

The phenomenon has been around since the early 2000s and after the initially shame of using it, online dating is now in many pockets after going mobile.