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Facebook Dating launched in the US last week, giving users ages 18 and older access to typical dating app features like specialized profiles and matchmaking algorithms. Though the dating app space is crowded, Facebook has an opportunity to set itself apart by simplifying what’s arguably the most vexing aspect of online dating: setting up a profile.
Jonathan Kay, founder of app analytics platform Apptopia, explains that aside from offering users a new, more curated experience, Facebook could potentially ease the tedious process of putting together a profile-users’ top dating app pain point.
“The real problem with dating sites is that the barrier to entry is extremely high,” Kay said. “Not only do you need to invest time in actually setting up a profile, you also have to create this profile from scratch-finding pictures, crafting an ‘About Me’-those things can be awkward and difficult to do.”
While users who want to use Facebook Dating need to opt in to the service and create a distinct profile separate from their existing Facebook account, Kay said that the social media company could choose to change this in the future.
“Facebook Dating can solve this huge barrier to entry by making dating a ‘one-click’ experience,” he said. “That is really powerful and the biggest differentiator they can have.”
Roughly 65% of people who download dating apps like Tinder or Bumble delete the app on the same day they download it or never end up using it, according to data from Apptopia. However, many of the users who engage on day one end up retaining for a long period of time after. “Getting the user past the barrier to entry is the entire key, and Facebook has all the data to make that seamless,” Kay said.
But this seamless experience could come at a cost for users. While Facebook isn’t currently monetizing its Dating feature-setting up a profile is free, and users aren’t yet subjected to ads-it will be able to gather even more user information that is likely more timely, relevant and intimate.