Grindr CPO Hints At Major Evolution of AI Wingman, Other Tools

Grindr is preparing to take a significant step forward in AI-driven dating experiences, with its Chief Product Officer AJ Balance revealing new details in a recent interview with TechRound. These expansions are meant to take the original concept of the Wingman – a system tested back in 2024 – and make it a more cohesive, powerful dating tool.

Balance said the company is working to evolve its existing AI assistant, Wingman, into a more proactive digital agent. Currently in beta with 10,000 users, Wingman helps manage conversations and track connections. Future versions, according to Balance, could recommend venues, coordinate logistics, and even engage with other users’ AI “Wingmen” before the actual participants start chatting.

Another key development is A-List, described as an AI-powered “little black book.” This feature summarizes past conversations and identifies promising matches users may have forgotten, making it easier to reconnect or follow up. It also includes filtering tools like “Met Up” and “Missed Connections.”

These tools are built using AWS’s Bedrock platform, which allows Grindr to use multiple language models while maintaining strong data security protocols. Balance emphasized that the goal is not novelty but solving real user needs around memory, momentum, and context in online dating.

This move comes as dating apps face shifting expectations, particularly from younger users. With a growing number of Gen Z reporting fatigue from traditional swipe-based formats, platforms like Grindr are responding by offering more intentional, context-rich features.

While AI is at the center of Grindr’s innovation roadmap, Balance made clear the company’s focus remains on human connection – not replacing it, but enhancing it. As he put it, “We’re building the Global Gayborhood in Your Pocket.”