Japanese Voice-First Dating App Voicetep Raises ¥200M

Japanese startup Voicetep has secured approximately ¥200 million (approximately £970,000 or $1.27 milllion USD) in funding to accelerate development of its voice-centred dating app and expand its broader communication platform ambitions. The investment round was led by Global Brain, alongside DG Daiwa Ventures, HERO Impact Capital, and other backers.

Voicetep – launched in April 2025 on iOS – differentiates itself from conventional dating apps by foregoing profile photos and text chat as first points of contact. Instead, matches initiate with voice calls. The app is designed to help users connect based on voice and conversation, offering a more personality-driven first impression.

Following the launch, Voicetep introduced an AI-powered “Conversation Skill Diagnosis” feature. After a voice call, the app analyses the interaction and provides feedback, supporting users who may feel nervous about talking to someone new and helping them sharpen their conversational skills.

According to the company, since the app’s release, its user base has nearly doubled each month on average. Moreover, among users who completed a first video call after voice matching, 79% proceeded to the next stage – an indicator of the app’s relatively high “gapless rate,” meaning fewer cases where the reality of a match diverged sharply from expectations. However, as with any voice-first social or dating format, its success will depend heavily on user adoption and comfort with starting relationships via voice alone.

With the new funds, Voicetep plans to boost both online and offline marketing efforts, polish its product features, and develop new functionalities. The long-term vision extends beyond romantic matchmaking: the company aims to evolve into a comprehensive “communication platform,” supporting relationships across romance, family, and professional contexts.