Internet Dating Newswire

Qloo Brings Cultural AI to BLK, Chispa, Upward and Yuzu

2025-08-04T15:46:40-04:00

The integration brings cultural artificial intelligence to dating apps to deliver a more personalized and relevant user experience.

July 16, 2025 -- /PRNEWSWIRE/ -- BLK, Chispa, Upward, and Yuzu are now using Qloo's Cultural AI across their platforms to bring a new level of personalized matchmaking. This technology helps users share more about who they are through their interests in music, film, travel, and more, leading to deeper, more meaningful connections. Since testing began, Yuzu users who added "Currently Into" (powered by Qloo) that allows users to showcase their hobbies and interests have seen a 70% increase in Likes, showing how cultural insights can spark authentic engagement.

Qloo is an AI-powered cultural intelligence platform that maps the relationships between millions of entities across music, film, fashion, podcasts, and more—essentially modeling how taste works. Its API surfaces hyper-relevant suggestions without relying on personal identifiers, enabling a real-time search experience where users can add any interest to their profile. Each interest is interactive and comes with a brief description from Qloo's proprietary knowledge graph, helping users express what matters to them and discover more meaningful connections based on shared cultural signals rather than surface-level traits.

"Users don't just want to be seen—they want to be understood," said Rahim Makani, Director of Product at Affinity Apps. "With Qloo's API, we're giving people the tools to represent themselves with greater texture and individuality, while unlocking smarter discovery across the platform."

This integration is a key step in Affinity Apps' vision to build more human-centered digital profiles—ones grounded in personality, not just proximity or networks. With Qloo insights contributing to the new profile builder across BLK, Chispa, Upward, and Yuzu, users will be able to explore a deeper, more personalized way to connect.

"At Qloo, we believe taste is one of the most expressive forms of identity, and our technology is uniquely positioned to bring that to life,” said Coby Santos, Chief Product Officer at Qloo. “We’re proud to partner with Match Group to help people connect more authentically through what they love."

About Match Group's Affinity Apps Match Group's Affinity Apps help people in specific, often underserved communities make meaningful connections. Our portfolio includes BLK®, Chispa®, Upward®, Yuzu™, and Salams®, each purpose-built to celebrate culture, faith, and shared values. With thoughtfully designed platforms and experiences, Affinity Apps create more focused spaces where users can feel seen, supported, and empowered to connect. As part of Match Group, our mission is to bring people closer together by honoring what makes them unique.

About Qloo
Qloo is the leading AI company demystifying the intricacies of global consumer tastes and preferences. The company operates one of the world's most robust catalogs of notable people, places, things, and interests, coupled with a consumer behavior and sentiment database containing more than 10 trillion unique signals and zero Personally Identifiable Information (PII). By leveraging cutting-edge AI models, Qloo unlocks the value of these databases to understand and predict audiences' interests and affinities with unrivaled accuracy. Since 2012, Qloo's award-winning Taste AI technology has helped multinational companies — including Netflix, Starbucks, JCDecaux, and Michelin — drive growth by powering personalized customer experiences and large language models, superior recommendations, data-driven marketing strategies, and advanced audience intelligence. Qloo is the parent company of TasteDive, a cultural recommendation engine and social community that allows users to discover what to watch, read, listen to, and play based on their existing unique preferences.

DateSpot Acquires ValleyMatch to Expand AI-Powered Affordable Matchmaking

2025-04-17T15:52:00-04:00

April 17, 2025 -- /PRNEWSWIRE/ -- DateSpot, a trailblazer in the dating world, announced the acquisition of Sacramento-based AI-enabled matchmaking service ValleyMatch. The move adds AI to its unique tech-enabled, pay-per-match model, scaling matchmaking to be accessible beyond the elite.

Both services championed a transformative industry model that is inclusive, transparent (including pricing), affordable, and that blends tech-suggested matches with human insight. The approach is more personalized and private than apps, while more efficient than traditional matchmaking.

In 2019, DateSpot redefined the industry as the first pay-per-match service and the first database connecting singles to a network of matchmaking companies and their clients.

As DateSpot has strong nationwide reach (75% of their members are actually outside the Bay Area due to their unique model), ValleyMatch members will gain access to a vastly larger network plus optional geographic expansion. They'll be able to take advantage of DateSpot's innovative features even outside the AI: a proprietary algorithm that incorporates relationship balance, profiles with video to verify photos and get someone's "vibe", highly specific filters (for personal traits, Love Languages, hobbies, and more), pay-as-you-go pricing, and cancel anytime terms. Other matchmakers charge $10K minimum, typically with no refunds, and many do blind dates - which generally don't work.

Today's dating apps also face widespread issues…Many dating apps face widespread issues—including fake profiles, scams, inactive accounts, and users misrepresenting their age, appearance, beliefs, lifestyle, or intentions. Beyond wasting time on people who are nowhere near aligned, this often results in confusion about who is genuinely seeking a long-term relationship and fuels a "bigger, better deal" mindset due to the perception of endless so-called "matches". According to a 2023 Pew Research Center study, 45% of U.S. adults report negative experiences with dating apps, and just 12% say they've found a committed relationship through them.

Swiryn says DateSpot addresses these challenges, partially by verifying the identity of each match (either through a video call or Plaid, which is integrated into their platform). "Most people don't invest the time needed on dating apps or with individual matches to create meaningful connections," she explains. "We encourage users to stop 'half apping it' and choose a more intentional approach."

Beyond the expanded match pool DateSpot clients will get through this acquisition, they'll benefit from the AI addition, which identifies ideal matches, a compatibility score, customized optimal next steps, and personalized outreach, further scaling the service.

Carla Swiryn, DateSpot's Founder/CEO, shared: "We're thrilled to integrate the new AI, welcome ValleyMatch members, and expand our member base to service clients best! Our companies believe that finding a truly aligned partner should be easier than what apps offer and that matchmaking can be for anyone."

Swiryn, a Bay Area native, entrepreneur, wife, mom in Silicon Valley, and former Google marketer, has been matchmaking since 2014. She has successfully matched hundreds of couples across all ages. "A success metric I'm proud of is that 87% of our members want a second date with their match", Swiryn shares. DateSpot's advisors include Match.com's former COO.

ValleyMatch was founded in 2023 by married couple Rebecca and Loc Nguyen, with a mission to modernize matchmaking. Rebecca, who will stay on part-time at DateSpot through at least August 1 to ensure a smooth transition, said: "This is a dream scenario. DateSpot was our first choice to take over because of their database size and values. I'm proud of what we've built together and excited to continue to lead the industry and help people find love."

Both Carla and Rebecca are "Mompreneurs" who launched their startups shortly before they had their daughters—balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship while building profitable companies within a few years.

The acquisition strengthens DateSpot's position as one of Northern California's largest matchmaking services, and "the "no-risk matchmaker" for relationship-minded individuals across the U.S.

About DateSpot: DateSpot is the next-generation matchmaking platform built on the belief that everyone deserves an efficient path to finding a truly compatible partner. With comprehensive video-based profiles, a collaborative partner network, and affordable per-match pricing, DateSpot helps singles across the U.S. find lasting relationships in a smarter way. Sign up at www.datespot.love.

Fitness Expert & Matchmaker Launches Revolutionary "Pay Per Match" Dating App for GoGetters

2021-01-06T07:04:28-05:00

January 5, 2021 -- /PRNEWSWIRE/ -- GoGetter is the latest Dating App created with an aim to connect like-minded, fitness oriented people in order for them to build a strong and healthy relationship. It's a first-of-its kind app designed to include a coin system to encourage quality matches.

With the coronavirus keeping people indoors plus nationwide social distancing directives, singles across the country are turning to dating apps in record numbers. However, before the pandemic, a survey conducted by Pew Research Center among individuals who have used a dating site or app in the past highlights 45% saying the experience left them feeling more frustrated because they couldn't find like-minded individuals, while 28% said it left them feeling hopeful.

Miller, a certified matchmaker, a fitness junkie and dating coach seeks to turn the table around with the GoGetter dating App. "I've spoken to hundreds of singles and meeting people isn't the issue, it's the quality of the matches," said Andrea Miller, GoGetter Founder. "GoGetter is designed to help you meet the right kind of people without wasting your time," she added.

She's talking about the new "Pay Per Match" feature which entails both parties putting in a coin to connect with each other, and that way, they both have some "skin in the game." While most apps require payment to use their service or to access certain features, GoGetter only requires you to pay with one goal in mind, to show your match that you're interested.

"People swipe right with their eyes closed so that means nothing these days," said Andrea. "Users want another indication about where they stand and if it will go beyond just a chat."

Each user pays their own coin while the other person is given 48hours to pay his or hers, if he or she does not, they get their coin back. The good news is that users can purchase the coin for as low as $1.

"GoGetter isn't about finding conquests - it's about conquering love. And with the right dating app, you can find the human being who makes you the best version of you," said Andrea.

The app is available on both Google Play and the App Store and is free to sign up.

MyCupidDates.com Launches With WhiteLabelDating.com

2020-10-14T14:42:39-04:00

October 14, 2020 -- /PR NEWSWIRE/ -- Dating site, MyCupidDates.com, launches with WhiteLabelDating.com and announces upcoming video features to support virtual dating.

Digital marketing specialist and successful long-standing partner of White Label Dating has launched a brand new dating site, MyCupidDates.com. The site, targeted at men and women looking for either friendship or love at a time of dating uncertainty due to Covid-19 restrictions, will offer users a safe online environment with a significant number of virtual dating features.

The site, which is part of a lucrative wider portfolio, is available on both mobile and desktop devices and is on track to introduce video calling before Christmas - the first video feature of many to launch in the next 6 months. Those to follow include video profiles and video stories.

A spokesperson from My Cupid Dates said, "With virtual dating becoming more and more popular, it's important that dating sites adapt to users' needs. This is why we chose to launch our newest site with White Label Dating as they near the launch of new video features, in particular voice and video calling".

Commenting on the role of their product releases in My Cupid Dates' choice to launch across the white label's UK and USA networks, Steve Pammenter, Co-CEO at White Label Dating said, "We're proud to have supported the team at My Cupid Dates for many years. It's because of partnerships like this that we invest heavily in our product to ensure that our partners always have portfolio expansion opportunities to continue thriving in an ever growing dating market.'

About White Label Dating
Launched in 2003, White Label Dating is a leading software as a service business that empowers brands, marketers and affiliates to power their own branded online dating sites. White Label Dating provides the dating software, payment processing, customer support, hosting infrastructure and much more. You provide your brand, website design and marketing.

Providing services for thousands of partners and with over 75 million registrations to date globally, White Label Dating operates across seven international territories including the UK, USA, Australia and South Africa.

White Label Dating is part of Venntro Media Group. Venntro is an alumni of the Tech City UK Future Fifty programme, a City A.M. Leap 100 company and was named one of LSE's '1000 Companies to Inspire Britain'.

Love is Respect: Bumble partners with the National Domestic Violence Hotline this October

2020-10-02T04:58:43-04:00

The Hotline saw a 101% increase in reported digital abuse from 2019 to 2020

October 1, 2020 -- /PR NEWSWIRE/ -- Today, Bumble is announcing a multi-year partnership with The National Domestic Violence Hotline ("The Hotline") in response to the continued prevalence and increase in unhealthy and abusive relationships. The popular app will be supporting the nonprofit's "love is respect" initiative that engages, educates, and empowers young people to prevent and end abusive relationships. Bumble will make its first multi-year pledge as the presenting sponsor of love is respect.

Over the course of five years, Bumble has changed the narrative around women making the first move in their relationships – yet, across the U.S., one in four women and one in seven men have been the victim of severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime.

"Bumble envisions a world free of misogyny, where all relationships are healthy, equitable, and empowering," said Cybil Zhang, Bumble's Strategy and Social Impact Associate Director. "Bumble is proud to support a crucial nonprofit like The Hotline, which is also based in our shared hometown of Austin, Texas. Through this sponsorship, we hope to demonstrate our continued commitment to creating healthy relationships on our platform and in our communities."

After lockdown spurred reports of domestic violence rates rising around the world, Bumble donated $100,000 to The Hotline in March 2020 as part of the company's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to putting survivors in closer proximity with their abusers, a special COVID-19 report from The Hotline has shown that shelter-in-place orders have increased stress, isolation, and financial strain that further compromised the safety of domestic abuse survivors.

Additionally, The Hotline saw a 101 percent increase in reported digital abuse from 2019 to 2020. Digital abuse is defined as the use of technologies such as texting and social networking to bully, harass, stalk, or intimidate a partner. Often this behavior is a form of verbal or emotional abuse perpetrated online. More information about digital abuse can be found on Bumble's blog post written in collaboration with love is respect Director Angela Lee.

"The goal of love is respect is to be the national resource to disrupt and prevent unhealthy relationships and intimate partner abuse," said Angela Lee, love is respect Director. "With Bumble's generous support, we will be able to create opportunities to empower young people through inclusive and equitable education, support, and resources. Through our partnership, we look forward to shifting the public view of what it means to have a healthy relationship."

Bumble has previously worked to curb abusive behavior online by developing legislation that makes the unsolicited sending of lewd nude images punishable by law in their home state of Texas. The measure – House Bill 2789 — passed the Texas Senate unanimously in May, and became law on September 1, 2019. Currently, Bumble is also sponsoring the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC)'s research on extremism and domestic violence. News of the study will go live later this year and can be found at splcenter.org.

If you or anyone you know is affected by abuse and needs support, please call 1−800−799−7233. If you are not able to speak safely, please visit thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 1-866-331-9474.

To learn more information about domestic violence, visit thehotline.org.

About Bumble app: Bumble, the women-first social networking app, was founded by CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd in 2014. Bumble connects people across dating (Bumble Date), friendship (Bumble BFF) and professional networking (Bumble Bizz). No matter the type of relationship, women make the first move on Bumble. Bumble recognizes the importance of relationships and how crucial they are to a healthy, happy life. They've built their platform around kindness, respect, and equality – and their users play an important part in that. Bumble holds its users accountable for their actions and has zero-tolerance for hate, aggression, or bullying. Bumble is available in 150 countries. Since 2014, Bumble has facilitated over a billion women-led first moves and over fifteen billion messages sent. Bumble is free and available in the App Store and Google Play.

About The Hotline and love is respect: For nearly twenty-five years, the National Domestic Violence Hotline has answered the call – over 5 million calls, chats, and texts to date – of those affected by relationship abuse. As the only 24/7/365 national service provider offering services via call, chat, and text, we work to shine a light on domestic violence by supporting and advocating for survivors, providing hope in times of crisis, and promoting healthy relationships for all.

From our crisis and intervention hotline, to our unprecedented data on the state of domestic violence, to prevention programs like love is respect, The Hotline works at every level to ensure a future where all relationships are positive, healthy, and free from violence. Learn more at thehotline.org

love is respect is the national resource to disrupt and prevent unhealthy relationships and intimate partner violence by empowering young people through inclusive and equitable education, support, and resources. A project of the National Domestic Violence Hotline, love is respect offers 24/7 information, support, and advocate to young people between the ages of 13 and 26 who have questions or concerns about their romantic relationships. love is respect is a safe, inclusive space for young people to access help and information in a setting specifically for them. Learn more at loveisrespect.org

Fan Pass Announces Beta Release of New Live Streaming Feature, Making it Simple for Artists to Go Live Instantly from Their Mobile Device

2020-09-16T07:50:16-04:00

Sep 15, 2020 -- /GLOBE NEWSWIRE/ -- Friendable, Inc. (OTC: FDBL) is pleased to announce its new feature, which allows artists to perform a live event or stream content right from their smart phone or mobile device.

“As a team, we are excited to have achieved yet another milestone as our platform continues to attract artists, fans, and ecommerce, generally growing our community each and every day. With Fan Pass continuing to receive great praise from the various artists currently on our platform, it has been a high priority and our goal to bring additional features that provide ease of use to our platform at the same time. This being said, we have just released our beta version of our ‘Instagram Live’ type feature, allowing artists to broadcast a live event from anywhere, at any time, right from their smartphone or mobile device,” said Friendable, Inc. CEO, Robert A. Rositano, Jr.

“While some performers prefer using Fan Pass with the highest quality live stream available, others are looking for portability and impromptu opportunity, which we can now deliver with this new feature. Currently Fan Pass artists can set up their events using a computer, free streaming software, or an external camera/microphone, which does provide the best quality, but this new feature is almost ready for prime time and we believe it’s a game changer for us,” concluded Friendable, Inc. CEO, Robert A. Rositano, Jr.

About Friendable, Inc.
Friendable, Inc. is a mobile-focused technology and marketing company, connecting and engaging users through two distinctly branded applications:

The Friendable and Fan Pass Mobile Applications.
The Company initially released its flagship product Friendable, as a social application where users can create one-on-one or group-style meetups. In 2019 the Company has moved the Friendable app closer to a traditional dating application with its focus on building revenue, as well as reintroducing the brand as a non-threatening, all-inclusive place where "Everything starts with Friendship"…meet, chat & date!

Fan Pass is the Company's most recent or second app/brand, scheduled for release in 2020. Fan Pass believes in connecting Fans of their favorite celebrity or artist, to an exclusive VIP or Backstage experience, right from their smartphone or other connected devices. Fan Pass allows an artist's fanbase to experience something they would otherwise never have the opportunity to afford or geographically attend. The Company aims to establish both Friendable and Fan Pass as premier brands and mobile platforms that are dedicated to connecting and engaging users from anywhere around the World.

Friendable, Inc. was founded by Robert A. Rositano Jr. and Dean Rositano, two brothers with over 27 years of working together on technology-related ventures.

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements. The words or phrases "would be," "will allow," "intends to," "will likely result," "are expected to," "will continue," "is anticipated," "estimate," "project," or similar expressions are intended to identify "forward-looking statements." Actual results could differ materially from those projected by Friendable, Inc. The iTunes rankings should not be construed as an indication in any way whatsoever of the future value of the Friendable's common stock or its present or future financial condition. The public filings of Friendable, Inc. made with the Securities and Exchange Commission may be accessed at the SEC's Edgar system at www.sec.gov. Statements made herein are as of the date of this press release and should not be relied upon as of any subsequent date. Friendable, Inc. cautions readers not to place reliance on such statements. Unless otherwise required by applicable law, Friendable, Inc. does not undertake, and Friendable, Inc. specifically disclaims any obligation, to update any forward-looking statements to reflect occurrences, developments, unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statement.

The Meet Group Launches DateNight to Dating Apps MeetMe and Skout

2020-07-29T05:47:33-04:00

First-of-its-kind weekly dating game gives away up to $100,000+ worth of first dates

July 28th, 2020 -- /BUSINESSWIRE / -- The Meet Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: MEET), a leading provider of interactive dating solutions, announced the launch of DateNight, the Company’s latest interactive feature, which makes anyone the star of their own dating game. DateNight is the first-ever livestreaming dating game that offers rewards to virtually anyone who plays. The game provides daters of its popular NextDate and BlindDate games who match during a DateNight event the opportunity to receive a free $10 gift card to one of 18 different national chain restaurants, giving away up to $15,000 worth of first dates every day. DateNight events will occur on Thursdays from 9:00 - 11:00 p.m. EDT throughout July and August.

The Meet Group is one of the largest providers of livestreaming dating games in the world. Over 185,000 dating games are played each day across The Meet Group’s apps, an increase of 95% since the declaration of a global pandemic in March. During the same period, the total time spent on the Company’s livestreaming dating platform increased by 39% to 1.4 million hours a day, with each livestreaming streamer or viewer spending on average more than 20 minutes a day.

“Based on the success of NextDate and BlindDate, we are pleased to launch our latest dating game experiment DateNight — leveraging video as a filter for in-person interaction and allowing anyone to be the star of their very own dating show,” said Geoff Cook, Chief Executive Officer of The Meet Group. “Dating apps have been evolving toward ever-increasing authenticity for years now. Nothing is more authentic than live video. At the start of the pandemic, video was a replacement for real-life interaction. Now, it is a filter to screen potential dates for connection and compatibility before ever meeting in person. Daters no longer have the risk appetite for meeting many different people in person based on a shallow interaction like swiping. They are increasingly demanding a video chat first, to prequalify potential dates. DateNight enhances that experience with the excitement of a virtual dating game with the promise of a face-to-face first date on us.”

Given that health and safety concerns in this time of COVID-19 are critically important, The Meet Group’s Safer Dating Advisory Board continues to advise the Company and its community, providing the latest in health and safety guidelines. Beyond viral safety, The Meet Group offers enhanced physical safety to all its daters through an industry-leading relationship with UrSafe. The 18 chains where gift cards may be redeemed were chosen for their outdoor seating and delivery options, and daters have a year to redeem their gift cards, offering flexibility in timing, so that they may date when they are ready. DateNight will only be held in states where the new case rate is less than 15 per 10,000 for three consecutive days. To limit frequent interactions, each person may redeem only one gift card per week. DateNight is currently available in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, New York, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Maine, with more expected to follow each week of the summer as applicable.

“Both internal and external surveys show people are resuming their dating activity,” said Cook. “In fact, a recent external survey of 1,500 US daters revealed that 81% would be willing to go on an in-person date tomorrow if they met someone interesting on a dating app today. What’s more, 25% said they had dated in person in the last 30 days. The only relevant question is how to keep them safe and minimize risk.”

“I believe video dating can be an important filter prior to an in-person interaction in this age of pandemic,” said Dr. Tali Elfassy, an epidemiologist and Research Assistant Professor of Epidemiology in the Department of Public Health Sciences at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. “Beyond assessing appearance and personality, video also provides an opportunity to assess if your potential date has any obvious signs of illness, coughing or sneezing. It also provides a forum to ask important questions, like: do you live in a multi-generational household or have contact with people at higher risk of COVID illness, will you wear a mask, or do you take mass transit?”

DateNight is available on the Company’s MeetMe and Skout apps today.

About The Meet Group
The Meet Group (NASDAQ: MEET) is a leading provider of interactive dating solutions designed to meet the universal need for human connection. Our ecosystem of live-streaming apps enables daters around the world to interact through one-to-many livestreaming broadcasts and text-based conversations. Our top apps, MeetMe®, LOVOO®, Skout®, Tagged® and GROWLr®, deliver live interactions and meaningful connections to millions of people daily. Headquartered in New Hope, PA, we have offices in Philadelphia, San Francisco, Dresden, and Berlin. The Meet Group is committed to safety. You can find a description of current safety practices here: https://www.themeetgroup.com/safety-practices/. For more information, visit themeetgroup.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including whether the number of games played and time spent on our platforms will continue to increase, whether DateNight is the future of dating, whether daters will increasingly demand video chat to prequalify potential dates, whether our Safer Dating Advisory Board will continue to advise us and our users as anticipated, whether we will limit DateNight availability to states where the new case rate is less than 15 per 10,000 for three consecutive days as anticipated, whether we will make DateNight available in additional states as anticipated, and whether video dating will be an important filter prior to in-person interaction. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained herein are forward-looking statements. The words “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “project,” “outlook,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include the risk that our applications will not function easily or otherwise as anticipated, the risk that we will not launch additional features and upgrades as anticipated, the risk that unanticipated events affect the functionality of our applications with popular mobile operating systems, any changes in such operating systems that degrade our mobile applications’ functionality and other unexpected issues which could adversely affect usage on mobile devices. Further information on our risk factors is contained in our filings with the SEC, including the Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 filed with the SEC on March 12, 2020 and the Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2020 filed with the SEC on May 6, 2020. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

The Meet Group Launches Monetization on Gay Dating App GROWLr

2020-06-11T17:39:51-04:00

Enables Members to Send Virtual Gifts inside the App

June 11, 2020 -- /BUSINESSWIRE/ -- The Meet Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: MEET), a leading provider of interactive dating solutions, announced the launch of monetization on GROWLr, the world’s largest bear-specific gay dating app. The announcement comes just one month after the company rolled out live video and free private 1:1 chats to the platform. The company accelerated its launch of live video to provide app members the opportunity to virtually connect with others amid the ongoing global pandemic.

Virtual gifting on GROWLr allows its members to send virtual gifts to livestreamers to show interest and support or start a conversation. Some of the virtual gifts available range from teddy bears, rainbows and roses, to the top gift of a dragon, worth 100,000 credits.

“The launch of virtual gifting on the GROWLr app is very exciting for the community,” said Geoff Cook, Chief Executive Officer of The Meet Group. “Not only does gifting provide a new way for our members to express themselves and connect with others, we also expect it to increase video engagement across the dating app, just like we’ve seen on MeetMe, Skout, and Tagged.”

According to a recent survey conducted on GROWLr, following the launch of Live, 72% of members saw someone they wanted to strike up a conversation with, and 63% felt they were better able to connect with someone when they went on Live. In regard to virtual gifting, 50% said they believed that the ability to send gifts will make for more interesting livestreams, and 61% were more inclined to watch top gifted streamers.

The Meet Group will be celebrating Pride Month through the duration of June and will feature special LGBTQ+ virtual in-app gifts, including a Pride flag, Pride rainbow, and Pride float.

About The Meet Group
The Meet Group (NASDAQ: MEET) is a leading provider of interactive dating solutions designed to meet the universal need for human connection. Our ecosystem of livestreaming apps enables users around the world to interact through one-to-many livestreaming broadcasts and text-based conversations. Our top apps, MeetMe®, LOVOO®, Skout®, Tagged® and GROWLr®, deliver live interactions and meaningful connections to millions of users daily. Headquartered in New Hope, PA, we have offices in Philadelphia, San Francisco, Dresden, and Berlin. The Meet Group is committed to safety. You can find a description of current safety practices here: https://www.themeetgroup.com/safety-practices/. For more information, visit themeetgroup.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including whether gifting will increase video engagement across the GROWLr app. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained herein are forward-looking statements. The words “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “project,” “outlook,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include the risk that our applications will not function easily or otherwise as anticipated, the risk that we will not launch additional features and upgrades as anticipated, the risk that unanticipated events affect the functionality of our applications with popular mobile operating systems, any changes in such operating systems that degrade our mobile applications’ functionality and other unexpected issues which could adversely affect usage on mobile devices. Further information on our risk factors is contained in our filings with the SEC, including the Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 filed with the SEC on March 12, 2020 and the Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2020 filed with the SEC on May 6, 2020. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

Covid-19 Killed Online Dating; App Luxy Sees Shift Towards Networking

2020-06-10T06:56:05-04:00

Upscale Dating App Luxy reports a disruptive shift in user behavior: Instead of dating, members who use the platform for business connections and making new friends have tripled.

June 9, 2020 -- /PR NEWSWIRE/ -- Coronavirus-related lockdowns and social distancing has led to more activity online. Dating App Luxy has taken a closer look into its user behavior that has dramatically changed. While on a survey conducted in mid-April among 2003 members, 63% said they wanted to wait to meet someone in person until the restrictions of the pandemic are lifted, a follow up question on June 5 revealed that for 54% Online Dating is not a top priority at the moment.

What are people looking for on Dating App Luxy?
Users are changing their objective and focus in larger numbers on making new friends and business networking. This user group makes up 35% in May. While romantic relationships are still on the radar of singles, it seems the continuous restrictions caused a shift in priorities.

We asked our members how long they are willing to wait to meet someone they are interested in. 63% want to wait until the pandemic is over and meet their crush physically. Only 20% of the singles think that video dating is an equivalent replacement.

With this attitude it's not surprising that the disparity of the main objective on Luxy has changed in May compared to the situation before the Coronavirus: Long-term relationship 44% (February 58%), nothing serious 11% (February 34%), new friends 35% (February 8%).

'Bounce-back' spirit among Americans visible
With most users having their own business being entrepreneurs, company spokesman Raffael Krause sees a rise in creativity and a fighting spirit among them: "The monitored shift is fascinating. It shows people are no longer in shock but see the crisis as a challenge. People want to change their life and are looking for ways to break the economic burden of the Coronavirus. One way to do so is Luxy. Last week, a woman in Kansas told me that she met her new business partner on our app. After detailed discussions, they formed a 1-year partnership to boost both of their businesses. It feels good to see people finding new opportunities on our platform."

Why the users' main intention has shifted on Luxy?
"Our largest user group with 41% are business owners and managers. Executives are facing similar problems so there is no surprise they started discussing these issues with each other," summarizes Jimmy Mee, CEO of Luxy. "It's a validation to the quality of our community. We remain the first choice for ambitious singles when finding new connections."

It implements verification and grants only those access who meet the high standards - including income, influence and reputation. With an acceptance rate of only 15%, Luxy is one of the most exclusive online dating sites. That's why more people join Luxy to build networks, especially when they're required to social distance and cannot meet in person. However, Luxy's main focus continues to remain on initiating romantic relationships.

About Luxy:
Launched in 2014, Luxy is the world's leading dating platform for wealthy and successful singles. With the focus on providing high-class experiences for sophisticated individuals, users need to verify their profile pictures to prevent catfishing. Besides swiping and matching, people can verify their income and identity to uphold Luxy's position as most excellent and trustworthy online community.

If you are interested in further data insights polled regularly of Luxy's 3 million members please contact press@onluxy.com

Find Luxy on Instagram @onluxy and visit www.onluxy.com to know more about us. Available to download on the App Store and Google Play.

eharmony Introduces "Video Date" - a New Product Feature for a Virtual Get-Together

2020-04-20T14:37:39-04:00

The #1 trusted dating app helps bring singles together on a safe and familiar platform to "meet" face-to-face while social distancing

April 20, 2020 -- /PR NEWSWIRE/ -- eharmony, the #1 trusted dating app, released a brand-new feature, Video Date. This one-on-one video communication function helps members continue creating meaningful connections in their search for a relationship while practicing social distancing. The Video Date feature is the latest move by eharmony to make it easier for people to find love from their homes with the benefit of the familiarity and secure environment eharmony provides.

"We have a strong global team and we're incredibly proud that our team was able to respond to emerging customer needs in such a short time all while working from home," says Gareth Mandel, COO of eharmony. "Social distancing doesn't have to mean disconnecting, and we're excited to release Video Date in a time when staying at home is forcing us all to adapt and get more creative. At eharmony, we want everyone to know that love will always bring us together."

eharmony has seen a 27 percent increase in messages in April compared to March as social distancing and stay at home restrictions have been in place. With people spending more time at home on their devices and limited opportunities for in-person interaction, Video Date will allow them to engage socially and build lasting connections.

Given eharmony's commitment to the highest quality of member safety, one key differentiator of the new Video Date feature compared to others is the security measures put in place. The benefit of using eharmony's Video Date feature is that no member will be forced to exchange private information, such as phone numbers, nor will they be faced with the additional safety concerns associated with moving to an external platform.

The video function is available only after two members have initiated a conversation and sent several messages back and forth. This is to ensure that only those members who are comfortable with each other can initiate a video call. Both members must be online to utilize the feature and there are no time restrictions.

Video Date is now available on all app, mobile web and desktop versions of eharmony.

About eharmony
Los Angeles, California-based eharmony helps people find meaningful relationships that enrich their lives. Founded in 2000, eharmony is a pioneer in creating highly compatible relationships based on key dimensions of personality that predict the most compatible, highly successful, long-term relationships. eharmony operates in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia. For more information visit www.eharmony.com or download the app available on both iOS and Android.