"Meta is rolling out an AI-powered Dating Assistant chatbot and a surprise weekly match feature called Meet Cute to Facebook Dating, aiming to reduce swipe fatigue and boost engagement."
Meta Reinvents Online Dating with AI
Meta has launched two new AI-driven features for Facebook Dating: an AI Dating Assistant and Meet Cute. Both are designed to make dating less about endless swiping and more about meaningful connections. If you have ever felt tired scrolling through profiles, this update could change your experience.
What is the AI Dating Assistant?
The AI Dating Assistant is built directly into the Facebook Dating app as a chatbot. Instead of relying only on standard filters, you can now type prompts like “Find me a Brooklyn girl in tech,” and the AI will search accordingly. Powered by Meta’s Llama models, the assistant can:
- Suggest better matches based on your interests.
- Offer profile improvement tips.
- Generate first-date ideas customized to your profile.
Unlike fictional AI companions, this assistant only uses publicly available user data. You can access it directly from the Matches tab in Facebook Dating. Currently, it is rolling out in the US and Canada.
How Does Meet Cute Work?
Meet Cute is another fresh feature. Once a week, Facebook’s algorithm sends you a surprise match no swiping needed. Here’s what makes it stand out:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Frequency | 1 curated match per week |
| User Control | Option to unmatch or opt-out anytime |
| Future Plans | Possible daily or frequent matches |
This setup reduces decision fatigue and gives users a focused match to consider. If you do not like the suggested person, you can simply opt out or unmatch instantly.
Why Now? Competitive Context
Facebook Dating has always been smaller compared to Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble. But Meta is now betting on AI to attract more users, especially younger audiences (ages 18–29). Interestingly, this group already shows 10% year-over-year growth in Facebook Dating sign-ups in the US and Canada.
Meanwhile, competitors are also leaning into AI Bumble has AI conversation starters, Hinge tests AI prompts, and Tinder has AI photo selectors. With Facebook now in the mix, the online dating landscape is heating up.
How to Use These New Features
- Open the Facebook app and go to the Dating section.
- Check the Matches tab for the AI Assistant chatbot.
- Type prompts to get matches, tips, or date ideas instantly.
- For Meet Cute, simply wait for your weekly match to arrive.
Both features are being rolled out gradually, so availability may vary depending on your region.
FAQs
1. Can I turn off Meet Cute if I don’t want surprise matches?
Yes, you can opt out anytime from the settings in Facebook Dating.
2. Does the AI Dating Assistant read private messages?
No, it only uses your public profile data for recommendations.
3. Is this feature free?
Yes, both the AI Assistant and Meet Cute are free within Facebook Dating.
