ASK A MATCHMAKER – In this solo episode, Matchmaker Maria examines the rise of AI-driven dating tools and argues that algorithms and chatbot coaches can’t replicate the human elements of chemistry, accountability, and community. She discusses where AI can support dating and where it falls short, challenges the swipe-first mindset, and distinguishes between validation and genuine compatibility. The episode also includes practical dating advice for 2026 and guidance for navigating apps, dating fatigue, and Valentine’s Day as a single person.
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Grindr Tests AI-Powered EDGE Subscription Tier
GRINDR – Grindr is testing a new premium subscription tier called EDGE, positioning it as a fully AI-integrated upgrade to the app experience. Powered by its gAI™ stack, EDGE embeds AI across discovery, messaging, and re-engagement rather than limiting it to a single feature. The tier includes daily personalized profile recommendations, conversation recaps to help users reconnect with missed chats, and expanded profile insights aimed at improving match quality and follow-through. The pilot is currently running in Australia, New Zealand, select U.S. cities, and Canada, with randomized pricing during testing. Grindr states that AI features are optional and that sensitive health data is excluded from AI use.
Dating in the Age of Ghosting and Bailing
TECHNICIAN – Despite making dating more accessible, apps have normalized ghosting, last-minute cancellations, and “breadcrumbing,” contributing to widespread frustration and burnout. Studies show high rates of ghosting among Gen Z and Millennials, with many both experiencing and engaging in it. Experts link this behavior to dating app fatigue, constant availability expectations, and the anonymity of online platforms, which can reduce accountability and encourage poor treatment of others. Combined with economic and social pressures, these trends have fueled what some describe as a “romantic recession,” where people plan dates but increasingly fail to follow through.
AI Is Killing Authentic Dating – With Daniel Cheaib, Founder of Feels App
BUILDING GREAT TECH – In this episode of Building Great Tech, Daniel Cheaib, Founder and CEO of Feels, discusses how the Gen Z-focused dating app has reached ~8M downloads and achieved 80% YOY revenue growth. He explains how Feels addresses dating app fatigue by prioritizing authenticity and self-expression for users under 30. The conversation explores Gen Z’s relationship with loneliness, the balance between AI and real-life connection, and how Feels is positioning itself within the evolving online dating landscape.
Smitten’s Provocative “Just Break Up” Campaign Sparks Attention in Sweden
RESUMÉ – Smitten, the Icelandic dating app, which entered the Swedish market in 2022, has launched a bold out-of-home push across Stockholm’s public transport system with messages like “Just break up!” and “You deserve to be single.” Developed by agency Make Your Mark, the campaign deliberately challenges conventional dating app narratives that traditionally glorify coupling. The messaging has appeared across buses, the metro, university campuses, podcasts, and social media – and has already generated organic discussion.
Radio Interview With Mark Brooks About How Dating Apps Are Fighting Romance Scams
Mark Brooks joined Agenda on DubaiEye, hosted by Georgia Tolley, to discuss the rise of online dating scams ahead of Valentine’s Day, and what dating apps are actively doing to prevent fraud and protect users through technology, moderation, and education.
Bolt and Breeze Partner to Improve First-Date Safety
LINKEDIN – Dating app Breeze has partnered with Bolt to improve safety around first dates. The collaboration integrates Bolt ride booking directly into Breeze’s date confirmations, enabling users to arrange transport to and from dates more easily. According to Breeze survey, 34% of users worry about safety on first dates. Alongside transport integration, Bolt and Breeze released a free dating safety guide with practical advice before, during, and after a date, including boundary-setting and reporting concerns.
SacredSpark Is a New Catholic Dating App Focused on Offline Matches
THE CATHOLIC WORLD REPORT – SacredSpark is a Catholic dating app co-founded by Emily Wilson Hussem and Daniël Hussem. It focuses on helping single Catholics connect with the intention of offline meetings and ultimately sacramental marriage. SacredSpark differs from other platforms by using audio/video prompts and an optional friend or family member as a matchmaker to encourage more intentional connections rather than superficial swiping. Since its launch on October 29, it has generated over 13,000 mutual matches.
Three Day Rule Tests AI-Led Matching and Messaging in New Dating App
TECH BUZZ – Three Day Rule launched an AI-driven dating app in 2025 that removes swiping and relies on automated matching and AI-guided conversations. Users answer 100+ questions, and the AI selects matches from a pool of about 250,000 singles. A $25/month subscription includes guaranteed matches and AI-generated introductions. In practice, multiple matches opened with identical AI-written messages, resulting in scripted conversations and limited personalization. The product design places AI at the center of both matching and messaging, reducing spontaneous, user-led interaction.
Tinder Tests “Chemistry,” an AI Feature Designed to Reduce Swipe Fatigue
TECH CRUNCH – Tinder is testing an AI feature called Chemistry to reduce swipe fatigue and dating app burnout. Currently piloted in Australia, the feature asks users questions and, if they opt in, analyzes patterns in their phone photos (such as hobbies, travel, or pets) to better understand interests. Instead of endless swiping, Chemistry delivers a small number of more relevant match suggestions.