Traditional swipe-based dating apps are losing favor among Gen Z users, who are increasingly turning to AI-driven matchmaking services for more authentic connections. One such platform, Ditto, founded by UC Berkeley dropouts Allen Wang and Eric Liu, aims to streamline the dating process by eliminating endless swiping and superficial interactions.
Ditto operates through a simple text-based interface. College students can join by texting a designated iMessage number with a specific code. The AI chatbot, Ditto, then guides users through an onboarding process, collecting basic information such as name, gender, and birth date, followed by more detailed questions about personality, interests, and dating preferences. Users can even upload photos of their celebrity crushes to help the AI understand their type.
Unlike traditional dating apps that match users based on shared hobbies, Ditto’s algorithm focuses on underlying personality traits. For instance, a rock-climbing enthusiast and a hip-hop fan might both be adventurous and individualistic, making them compatible despite differing interests. This approach aims to predict chemistry between users by analyzing deeper behavioral signals.
Every Wednesday at 7 p.m., Ditto sends users their weekly match, complete with the person’s details, a suggested time, and location for the date. Users are encouraged to meet in person and provide feedback afterward, allowing the AI to refine future matches. Currently, Ditto boasts 150,000 signups, with approximately 20% of matches leading to actual dates—a notable success rate in the online dating landscape.
To enhance user engagement, Ditto presents matches through collage-like graphics explaining the compatibility rationale, an aesthetic that resonates with Gen Z. While the platform is currently limited to select colleges, requiring a .edu email for verification, plans are underway to expand to more schools and eventually beyond the college demographic.
As dating apps evolve to meet the preferences of younger users, AI-driven platforms like Ditto offer a promising alternative to traditional swiping methods. By focusing on deeper compatibility and reducing the friction associated with online dating, these services may redefine how meaningful connections are formed in the digital age.
