FORBES – Yeet is a dating app for Gen Z that uses an AI agent called Yeeta to facilitate real-time interactions between users. The AI helps guide conversations and hosts interactive sessions intended to reduce ghosting and stalled chats. The platform focuses on live engagement rather than browsing profiles. It has around 6,000 beta users and reflects a broader trend of AI tools being introduced into dating apps as younger users look for more direct and meaningful interactions.
FORBES – More women are turning to AI “boyfriends”, chatbots that simulate empathy, remember details, and provide constant conversation, as frustration with dating apps grows. A 2023 Pew Research Center survey found that 54% of women using dating apps feel overwhelmed by the number of messages they receive, while a 2025 Tinder survey cited by Forbes reported that 94% of women say dating today is more difficult than in the past. A 2025 Journal of Consumer Research study found that interacting with AI companions can reduce loneliness in the moment. A 2026 National Institutes of Health study reported that about half of users on some AI companion platforms describe their relationship with the chatbot as romantic.
FORBES – Grindr’s shares rose after majority owner Raymond Zage withdrew his bid to take the company private and instead pledged to buy more shares on the open market. Zage and partner James Lu, who own ~64% of Grindr, dropped their $3.5B bid after the company’s special committee stopped talks due to uncertainty over financing. Grindr stock has gained over the past two days, recovering part of the drop that followed the halted buyout discussions. Zage, who has already bought ~$200M in shares since 2022, is pushing for higher shareholder returns through buybacks and possibly dividends. Grindr continues to grow, reporting 15M monthly users, 1.3M paying subscribers, rising profits, and strong EBITDA guidance.
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FORBES – Vows for Eternity, founded by Anuradha Gupta, is a personalized matchmaking service focused on modern Indian clients. Traditional family-led matchmaking is declining, replaced by curated, human-led services. Online platforms introduced scale but failed to offer depth or vetting. Demand for marriage remains strong, with the average age rising; women aged 30-34 now make up 17.7% of all married women aged 15-49. Clients in their 30s and 40s prioritize compatibility in values, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Human matchmakers address needs that tech platforms don't, including second marriages and cross-cultural matches.
Curated by the Courtland Brooks team
FORBES – Tinder is overhauling its app to win back Gen Z, who are turning away from hookup culture, swiping fatigue, and unsafe user experiences. CEO Spencer Rascoff is shifting focus toward better user experience with AI features, safety improvements, and new tools like group dating. Gen Z wants authentic, in-person connections, and Tinder is adapting before it loses more ground – despite flatlined growth and being ranked last in a UX study. Match Group has cut 13% of its workforce and is prioritizing long-term user satisfaction over short-term profit.
FORBES – Cybernews found that five iOS dating apps by M.A.D Mobile Apps Developers Limited – BDSM People, Brish, Chica, Pink, and Translate – leaked ~1.5M user photos due to exposed API keys and unsecured cloud storage. The breach affected private chat images, profile pics, and moderated content.
FORBES – Club Pillar is a new members-only dating app designed for sober individuals and those who avoid alcohol. Founder Jessie Urvater created the platform to provide a space for sober and health-conscious people to meet, addressing the lack of dating options outside alcohol-focused venues. Unlike traditional dating apps, Club Pillar limits daily profiles and hosts in-person events to encourage real connections. The app aims to change the negative stigma around sobriety by offering a community for those who prefer alcohol-free dating.
FORBES – Hiki, a social and dating app for neurodivergent adults, announced an expansion to include all neurodivergent individuals. CEO Jamil Karriem highlighted new features like high contrast mode and screen reader accessibility. The expansion responds to user demand and aims to create a safe, authentic space for connections. Beta-testers have given positive feedback on the updates.
FORBES – A Forbes Health survey found that 79% of Gen Z users report burnout from dating apps, largely due to the overwhelming pool of potential matches, repetitive conversations, and disappointment in connections. Tinder and Bumble are frequently used, with a significant number of users seeking long-term relationships. The survey also highlighted that common issues like ghosting and catfishing contribute to this fatigue. Despite this, dating apps can boost self-esteem and offer opportunities to meet diverse individuals, suggesting that moderation and authenticity can improve the online dating experience.
