TECHROUND - AJ Balance, Grindr's Chief Product Officer since 2021, is a longtime user of the app and previously led product at Uber and co-founded Dispatcher Inc. His personal connection to Grindr, using it during his own coming out, drives his vision to expand the platform beyond dating. Under his leadership, Grindr has launched features like Roam (pre-travel connections), Right Now (real-time intent), and AI tools like Wingman and A-List to manage conversations and boost engagement. Balance is steering Grindr toward deeper, more intentional connections as user expectations shift. The 2025 roadmap includes expanded AI, cultural content, and tools to support queer connections globally.