Tinder has introduced group hangouts organized around activities, expanding beyond its double date feature as an alternative to one-on-one first dates.
The feature will initially be available in the United States and other select markets before a broader rollout, and users will be able to access it from the top of the app’s home screen where available.
Tinder said about 90% of users who tried double dates are under 30. The company also said matches made through double dates exchanged 35% more messages.
Tinder said those figures suggested younger users wanted a lower-pressure way to meet new people with support from friends. The company said early testing of group hangouts in Australia showed 40% of invitations were accepted.
Users create a group hangout by starting a group, choosing an activity and inviting friends. Once a group has at least three members, its profile can be shown to other groups of three or more people.
Groups can browse other groups and, after a match, a group chat opens so members can decide whether to meet in person. Users can leave a group or a hangout chat at any time, and Tinder’s existing safety features apply.
Tags: social mediaTinder
