Tech

Hinge App Relaunch: 'Tinder' Rival Now A Paid Members-Only Dating Platform - No More Swiping!

Pat M
First Posted: Oct 12, 2016 06:05 AM EDT

Hinge was just one of those dating apps that would involve swiping and endless judgment, however, with their recent relaunch, they are now positioning themselves as the app where users will find their next serious relationships. The 'Tinder' rival is now a paid members-only platform, a 360 turn from its original business model.

It was actually among the first dating apps ever, but then with their game being more and more competitive, there wasn't any much innovation that could be done. CEO Justin McLeod even had to ask himself if this where they intended Hinge would be.

One key difference in the relaunch is the disappearance of the swipe option. That was decided as a means for people to engage in deeper relationships rather than just hook ups. It's now more like a less expensive and less tedious mobile version of eHarmony and Match.com.

Based on their research, millennials - which is their target market, are now looking for more meaningful relationships. The app is attempting now to create a dating platform where people are treated with more dignity and respect. It's not just a game anymore, but rather, an app where you could find a true partner.

Users are now being offered a $7 monthly membership fee, and this was implemented so that its users would be more committed. Additionally, there are also huge changes in the interfaces, and McLeod compares it now to Instagram where people check out stories than just simple photos.

In this relaunched version, connections don't expire anymore so users are now free to connect with anyone of their matches. Overall, what the company tried to do is to make Hinge a place where people truly connect. It's also their attempt on trying to make something better out of the current dating world.

With that said, Hinge and Tinder might not be rivals anymore. The new edition of the dating app is now available for download. 

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