Over the last couple decades, online dating has evolved from a novelty to the norm. Nowadays, almost everyone looking for a partner will try out apps like Bumble and Tinder. Experiences on these platforms vary–while there have been many success stories, other users have been experiencing ‘swipe fatigue’. As a result, we’re seeing online dating starting to move in new directions. Here are a few examples of what the future of dating apps and matchmaking sites may have in store.
A rise in niche platforms
More people are abandoning the mainstream apps and trying out niche platforms. These alternatives are targeted at specific communities, lifestyles, and values.
Examples of niche platforms include:
- GRASS: An app focused on connecting outdoor enthusiasts who are into activities like camping and hiking.
- Elite Singles: A platform targeted at educated, ambitious professionals looking for someone in the same pay bracket.
- SALT: One of the biggest apps focused on connecting Christian singles.
- Muzz: A muslim dating platform with over 15 million users.
These types of platforms allow users to focus their dating search on select types of people instead of having to select from a wide pool of everyone in the area. It’s a great way of filtering out poor matches while also establishing a common connection from the get go.
AI-powered matchmaking
Artificial intelligence is also starting to make an impact behind the scenes. Many platforms – including mainstream ones – are now using AI to understand behavior and preferences of users to further fine-tune the matchmaking process.
Some platforms have even made AI-based compatibility-dating their focus, while also using these to lead to virtual and in-person dating events. Such technology aims to improve chemistry and provide an alternative to those daters who are suffering from swipe fatigue.
Slow dating
Whereas swiping makes the selection process fast-paced, other apps have come in to slow the process down. After all, many relationships established offline are the result of steady repeated exposure, so why not emulate this online?
Some apps and sites have begun limiting daily matches and bringing in games and conversation prompts to help users get to know each other deeper beyond small talk. Others like Jigsaw even hide a person’s profile behind a puzzle, with pieces being removed gradually through interactions – a complete opposite approach to apps like Tinder.
Voice-first dating
Most dating apps are based on photos and text. Voice-first dating allows users to send audio messages instead or have short voice calls.
This can provide a new way to connect that may allow certain users to better display their personality, warmth and humor. It’s also a way to reduce misinterpretation based on filters and heavily edited photos.
Some dating apps and sites also incorporate video messaging, but voice-based dating appears to be more popular due to being less pressured.
The overall consensus…
Online dating is going in lots of different directions, but there’s an overarching theme: a move away from mindless swiping to more meaningful connection. Those who are currently disheartened by the most popular apps therefore shouldn’t give up on dating apps altogether – it could just be time to change course and embrace some of the emerging future alternatives early.
Photo by Julio Lopez.
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