MASHABLE – May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and dating app Bumble is kicking it off with a new set of Interest Badges and Prompts about self-care and mental well-being. Interest Badges on Bumble let users signal to other users what they care about, while Prompts let them show a little personality and can be good conversation starters. Six new Badges to choose from are "Therapy," "Mindfulness," "Deep chat," "Nutrition," "Sleeping well," and "Time offline." New Prompts include, "My mental health game changer was…" and "I'm prioritizing my mental health by…" According to a Bumble survey, 55% of respondents said it's important to be open about mental health when connecting with others.
Month: May 2023
Why Are Most Dating Apps So Similar to Each Other?
MAKE USE OF – Dating apps often seem similar due to several factors. Firstly, many mainstream apps like Tinder, Match, OKCupid, and Hinge are owned by the Match Group, which dictates the overall approach and design of these platforms. Secondly, the freemium model, where basic services are free but premium features are locked behind a paywall, is common across the industry, leading to similar user experiences. Mobile optimization for smaller screens and a need for a mass appeal also contribute to a uniform design language. Additionally, many users are on multiple platforms, which might make the experience feel repetitive. Lastly, the lack of a foolproof algorithm for successful matching and the apps' desire to keep users engaged leads to the use of similar gamified elements across platforms. Despite these similarities, subtle differences might make one app more suited to a user than others.
Chapter 2 Reveals Study on ‘Widow’s Fire’ and Post-Bereavement Sexual Intimacy
CHAPTER2 – 'Widow's fire' is a term denoting the strong sexual desire experienced following the death of a partner. Recent research has found that 63% of widows and widowers experience this phenomenon, with 58% beginning to feel these urges within 6 months of their partner's passing. The average widow or widower waits about a year and three months before engaging in sexual relations with a new partner. The study also revealed that many widows and widowers become more sexually adventurous and experimental after their partner's death. To support widows and widowers in exploring these natural urges, Chapter 2, the UK dating app for widows and widowers is launching a sister-app called WidowsFire in June 2023. The app is 'all about the physical' with other widows and widowers and seeks to offer a fun and flirty place to explore natural urges.
Underdog Muzz Stands Defiant Against Match Group’s Intimidation Tactics in Trademark Dispute
ARABIAN BUSINESS – Muzz, the world's largest Muslim dating app, has accused Match Group of aggressive intimidation tactics following a lengthy legal battle. Muzz recently lost its trademark in a UK appeal and was forced to change its name. Match Group is accused of using this power to intimidate other players, especially those with fewer resources for legal defense. Despite settling in the US and rebranding from muzmatch to Muzz, the UK appeal failed. Muzz has now urged the Federal Trade Commission to investigate Match Group's anti-competitive behavior. Match Group had reportedly attempted to acquire Muzz four times and subsequently filed a complaint when they didn't get the acquisition. Muzz views these actions as a calculated attempt by Match Group to maintain its dominance by litigating smaller competitors. The legal battle has been draining for Muzz, both personally and professionally, with costs approaching $2M.
LTR.us
OPW – Moving forward, you can always see the latest LTR (Love Technology, Relationship) event at http://www.LTR.us. This event is where the dating industry learn, share, and connect each month, and is for members of IDEA, which is free for dating industry leaders to join.
