TECH CRUNCH – Match Group has eliminated the Chief Operating Officer role, leading to the departure of COO Hesam Hosseini after 18 years with the company. The decision comes as the dating-app industry faces declining engagement, particularly among Gen Z users. The change is part of a broader restructuring under CEO Spencer Rascoff, aimed at streamlining operations and cutting costs.
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.
TECH CRUNCH – Tinder is testing an AI feature called Chemistry that learns about users through questions and, with permission, analyzes Camera Roll photos to better understand their interests and personality. Currently piloted in New Zealand and Australia, it will be a key part of Tinder’s 2026 product update, according to CEO Spencer Rascoff. Alongside AI, Tinder is adding new features like dating modes, double dates, facial verification, and redesigned profiles to boost engagement after nine consecutive quarters of subscriber decline.
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TECH CRUNCH – Tinder is testing a new height preference setting for Gold and Premium users. The feature, now in global testing, lets subscribers indicate their preferred partner height. It doesn't filter out profiles but helps shape recommendations. According to Tinder, this test supports their goal of more intentional matches and user-focused development.
TECH CRUNCH – Tinder is introducing AI-powered matching to counter declining user engagement and revenue. The new feature aims to provide personalized recommendations beyond traditional swiping, though swiping will remain. Tinder’s global user base continues to shrink, with monthly active users down 8% in January and direct revenue missing forecasts at $476M. Match Group’s new CEO, Spencer Rascoff, sees AI as a game-changer, likening its potential impact to the mobile revolution.
TECH CRUNCH – The FTC and international consumer protection networks studied 642 websites and apps offering subscriptions, finding that ~76% employed manipulative "dark patterns" to influence user behavior. These patterns include tactics like sneaking auto-renewals (81%), making cancellation difficult (70%), and using social proof (21.5%) to push subscriptions. The report suggests increased FTC scrutiny of these practices amid ongoing legal actions, highlighting concerns over consumer privacy and fair market practices.
by Sarah Perez
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Mark Brooks: This is definitely a good time to acquire companies in the dating space. It's a buyer's market right now. Match Group seems less acquisitive since the cost of capital has gone up. #3 player ParshipMeet Group used to be very acquisitive, but have been quiet recently. Social Discovery Group hasn't made a move on anything in a while. So it's a good time for Bumble to level up by bringing in innovative disruptive technologies. Consider the buying-interest signal sent.
TECH CRUNCH – A third of Bumble's Texas workforce moved out of the state after the passage of the 'Heartbeat Act' abortion bill. The company supports remote work and has joined a lawsuit against the Texas abortion law, citing its impact on business and talent retention. Bumble has also enhanced healthcare benefits to cover reproductive rights.
TECH CRUNCH – Match Group is undecided about adopting Apple's new Digital Markets Act (DMA) rules in the EU, which allow for alternative app stores and third-party payments. During their Q4 2023 earnings call, CEO Gary Swidler expressed uncertainty about how the new regulations would affect their business, similar to concerns raised by Spotify and Microsoft. Apple's compliance with the DMA involves a new commission structure, including a "Core Technology Fee" for those opting in. Critics argue that these rules may not offer the expected benefits in an open app market. However, the European Commission has yet to accept Apple's proposal, leaving room for changes.
