Dating app Tinder is adding an offline meet-up feature to attract new users. The move reflects the preferences of Generation Z (born from 1995 to the early 2000s), who favor in-person meetings.
On Apr. 12 local time, Tinder introduced new updates, including the meet-up feature, in the first product keynote at the event "Tinder Spark 2026: A New Beginning." The announcement comes after Tinder's parent company Match Group said in Aug. last year that it would invest $50 million (about 75 billion won) in product development to boost app engagement among existing dating users and attract younger users.
A Tinder official said, "The core of this change is to create more 'Sparks,' the moment when a match goes beyond simple consolidation and turns into a genuine conversation."
The most notable new feature at the event is "Events." Starting in May–June for users in Los Angeles, the feature lets matched users sign up in the app for local activities such as pottery classes and bowling and take part. Tinder will arrange various activities so users can carry the connection into offline meetings. In the first half of the year, Tinder will also introduce "Video Speed Dating," which lets multiple users hold video chats for three minutes each at scheduled times.
The "Global Mode" feature, which matches users based on their preferences, was also strengthened. The existing "Music Mode" was overhauled to help users achieve deeper consolidation through shared music tastes. A new "Horoscope Mode," which supports matching based on compatibility suggested by the zodiac, was also added. Users can enter details such as date and time of birth, and the feature will indicate how compatible they are with potential matches based on zodiac signs.
AI-based safety features were also strengthened. The scope of "Face Check," a real-world verification system, is expanding to the global market. Tinder also introduced "Are You Sure?," which warns users about harmful language before sending a message to prevent rude behavior in advance, and "Does This Bother You?," which detects inappropriate messages, automatically blurs them, and makes reporting easy.
Industry watchers say Tinder has signaled sweeping changes to prevent users from leaving as enthusiasm for dating apps cools worldwide.
Tinder CEO Spencer Rascoff said, "More than half of Tinder users are under 30, and they want dating to feel more genuine, with less pressure, and worth their time," adding, "That's why this update focused on widening the paths that lead to users meeting."