Tinder Brings AI into Dating with New “Chemistry” Feature
Tinder is turning to artificial intelligence to better understand users and help them find more compatible matches. Its parent company, Match Group, announced that the dating app is testing a new feature called Chemistry, which uses AI to learn about users through interactive questions and their Camera Roll photos — but only with their consent.
How Tinder’s AI feature works
The new AI-powered system studies photos on users’ phones to understand their interests and personality traits. For instance, if your photos show hiking or outdoor adventures, the AI might suggest matches with similar hobbies. The goal is to make matchmaking smarter and more personal.
Tinder is currently piloting Chemistry in New Zealand and Australia. Match Group CEO Spencer Rascoff said the tool will be a “major pillar” of Tinder’s 2026 product experience.
Privacy concerns and AI expansion
The move follows similar experiments by other tech giants. Meta recently launched a feature that asks for access to users’ photo libraries to offer AI-based image edits. While these features promise better personalization, many users remain cautious about sharing private photos with apps.
Beyond Chemistry, Tinder already uses AI in several areas. A large language model (LLM) helps the app nudge users before they send potentially harmful messages, asking, “Are you sure?” The app also uses AI to suggest the best profile photos for users.
Tinder’s challenges and the road ahead
Despite new AI features, Tinder continues to face challenges. Match reported that Tinder’s revenue dropped 3% year-over-year, with a 7% decline in paying users. Its Q4 revenue outlook fell to between $865 million and $875 million, below analyst expectations of $884.2 million.
Tinder has also launched several non-AI updates, including dating modes, double dates, facial verification, and redesigned profile cards with integrated prompts. Still, it faces a changing dating culture where young users prefer real-world connections over digital swipes.
As AI becomes a bigger part of Tinder’s evolution, the company hopes Chemistry will reignite engagement and help users form deeper, more authentic connections.
