I experimented with Tinder’s AI chatbot to refine my charm, although I found it hard to take seriously. Users attempt to impress the AI to secure a date, receiving feedback and ratings along the way. Following a comment by Match’s new CEO characterizing Tinder and Hinge as overly focused on numbers, the platform introduced a playful element to its interactions.
In a Lahore craft store, I found myself reaching for the same unique handmade lamp as Isabella, a scientist brimming with curiosity. While stationed in my office in Singapore, I dabbled in Tinder’s new interactive feature to enhance my social prowess.
Dubbed ‘The Game Game,’ this in-app addition leverages speech-to-speech AI technology to craft exaggerated, serendipitous scenarios, as stated by Tinder in a recent announcement. Users engage in playful banter with the goal of securing a date, receiving real-time feedback and evaluations from the AI. To maintain privacy, I utilized my editor’s US phone in a secluded area to avoid colleagues overhearing my conversations with Isabella.
Successfully charming responses earned me points labeled as ‘delightful,’ ‘charming,’ and ‘victory,’ potentially leading to a date with the AI. Each scenario provided roughly five minutes for flirting, with a total of 10 scenarios available on the free account. Powered by OpenAI’s GPT-40 and GPT-40 mini, the game assures that users’ pick-up lines do not contribute to AI model training. The feature is exclusive to iOS users in the US for a limited period.
A Match Group spokesperson expressed that the game serves as a learning tool to anticipate future releases across various markets. This initiative coincides with Match’s efforts to refocus on user experience amid declining user numbers. Match’s senior director of product innovation conveyed that the project aimed to inject fun and reduce the pressure associated with dating using AI.
As Match faces a decline in stock performance, with a 10.8% decrease in the past year, while Bumble’s stock plummeted by 61%, I tried my hand at flirting (with limited success) with Tinder’s AI. In my initial scenario labeled ‘Easy,’ Isabella’s responses lacked authenticity, making it challenging to engage meaningfully. Despite my attempts to steer the conversation towards a lighter tone, I received generic tips from Tinder and failed to secure a date.
Subsequently, I endeavored to spark a connection with Jackson, a photographer at a bustling block party. As we shared grill duties, I seized the opportunity to elevate the conversation, earning points from Tinder for my efforts. Although I missed the mark with a suggestive remark, the experience provided valuable insights into navigating playful interactions.
During a recent encounter, the stakes were raised when he inquired about the challenges I’ve encountered. I mustered the courage to admit, “I find it hard to take my eyes off you.” His response? “Well, that’s very kind of you to say.” He then proposed we find a cozy spot to chat. In a real-life setting, such a bold statement would either indicate strong interest or discomfort. Yet, on Tinder, it seemed to earn me points – leading to a successful date with Jackson. The key takeaway? Dare to be bold and flirtatious, as the AI seems to appreciate it without judgment.
On another occasion, I found myself in line at a food truck in Venice where I struck up a conversation with Paisley, an architect, about culinary escapades. Regrettably, I was as bland as dry toast in my responses. Despite my lackluster answers, Paisley remained enthusiastic and engaged, even suggesting a food adventure together. However, my disinterest in new cuisines and cooking led to a missed opportunity for a date. While I failed to score a date, Paisley’s unwavering enthusiasm highlighted my lackluster conversation skills.
In conclusion, Tinder’s AI may respond well to flirty interactions but doesn’t seem to pick up on lackluster energy. Ultimately, I couldn’t take this Tinder game too seriously.
Correction: April 2, 2025 – A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the day Tinder announced its new game. It was announced on Tuesday, not Monday.
