The boss of dating app Hinge has said that single people in their 20s are turning to artificial intelligence to make the first move because of loneliness and a lack of confidence.
Jackie Jantos, Hinge's CEO, identified these challenges as key obstacles for young adults looking for relationships. The comments come as dating apps increasingly incorporate AI features, such as suggested opening lines or automated message prompts, to help users overcome social anxiety.
“Hinge boss Jackie Jantos says young singles use AI to overcome loneliness and lack of confidence when making the first move on dating apps.”
Dating apps have become a primary way for young Britons to meet partners. However, many users report feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to craft the perfect first message. Jantos said that loneliness and lack of confidence were common among this age group, leading them to rely on AI to initiate conversations.
The issue affects young adults across the UK, particularly in cities where dating app usage is high. In London, Manchester, and Birmingham, singles in their 20s often turn to apps like Hinge, Tinder, and Bumble. The use of AI could help level the playing field for those who struggle with social skills or shyness.
Jantos said that loneliness and lack of confidence were challenges for young adults seeking relationships. Her remarks highlight a growing trend where technology is used not just to connect people but to facilitate the initial interaction. She did not provide specific data on how many users rely on AI features, but the sentiment reflects broader industry observations.
Hinge and other dating apps are expected to continue developing AI tools to address user concerns about loneliness and confidence. While no specific upcoming features were announced, the direction suggests a future where AI plays a larger role in online dating.
What This Means For You For single people in their 20s in the UK, AI could make starting conversations easier, reducing the anxiety of making the first move. However, it also raises questions about authenticity — if AI writes your openings, are you really being yourself? For now, the technology offers a crutch for those who need it, but the ultimate goal remains forming genuine connections.