Match Group, the corporate behind courting apps like Tinder and OkCupid, is getting critical about its relationship with AI.
After toying with some AI-powered options on Tinder, Match Group is taking issues to the subsequent stage by appointing former Zynga head of development Mark Kantor as vice chairman of innovation. Kantor, who additionally co-founded startups like Yellowbrick and Graffiti, will lead a small workforce of engineers and designers targeted on bringing new applied sciences to Match Group’s apps.
“Harnessing our rising generative AI options will likely be one key focus space, as we discover methods to make it simpler for customers to have interaction in courting apps, present instruments to assist customers showcase their individuality, and additional improve the protection and accessibility of our apps,” wrote CTO Will Wu in an inner memo, which was offered to TechCrunch. Match Group is asking Kantor’s workforce ASL, which stands for “Artwork x Science Lab” and is a nod to the retro web pickup line, “ASL?” (age, intercourse, location).
Match has already begun engaged on some AI instruments. Just lately, Tinder introduced it could take a look at an AI photograph choice function, which seems at customers’ photograph albums to choose the pictures that will carry out greatest on the app. At a Reuters occasion final month, Tinder CPO Mark Van Ryswyk hinted at the concept that customers might write their courting bios with generative AI . . . which can sound form of icky, however then once more, individuals are writing wedding vows on ChatGPT, so it appears some individuals are into that.
The concept of AI-powered courting would possibly really feel regarding for shoppers who need their on-line courting experiences to really feel as genuine as potential. However Match Group is making an attempt to guarantee that its improvements don’t come throughout as too disingenuous.
“It’s crucial that our options and instruments improve belief, authenticity and respect and, finally, result in higher matches and dates in actual life,” CEO Bernard Kim stated on Match Group’s final earnings name. “By the tip of the yr, we anticipate to have launched plenty of initiatives that can use generative AI to eradicate awkwardness, make courting extra rewarding and shock and delight customers, all in a means that focuses on authenticity and sustaining the very best moral and privateness requirements.”