Dating App Fatigue Raises Questions About Algorithm Limitations
Dating apps may be better at expanding access to potential partners than predicting which relationships will succeed, according to an evidence review examining matching algorithms, user behaviour and the growing fatigue associated with online dating. The distinction is increasingly relevant as dating platforms promote more sophisticated approaches to compatibility and introductions.
As discussed in an episode of the Beyond the Buzz podcast with Dr. Tara Moroz – featuring Rik Foote from the matchmaking and swipeless dating platform HAEVN – the central question is whether these systems can meaningfully improve romantic outcomes, rather than simply help users meet more people. That does not mean matching technology has no role, but suggests that platforms may have more influence over how people are introduced than over what happens after those introductions, at least in their current form.
Research cited by the show points to stronger support for the latter. A major psychological review from 2012 found that online dating can help people connect with potential partners outside their existing social circles, but found weaker evidence that compatibility algorithms can reliably predict long-term relationship outcomes. User fatigue is another factor shaping the market – many users cited difficulty finding connections, rejection, repetitive conversations and the process of swiping among their frustrations.
In other surveys, there are certain extremely strong compatability factors that come to light. For example, many AAPI daters really value cultural compatability as a core part of their matches, with many ending relationships specifically because of cultural differences or even things as simple as the food eaten on dates. These can be factors that go beyond most dating algorithms, and aren’t easily accounted for by AI systems designed to personalise matches.
Different users also have different reasons for using dating platforms, making broad claims about whether apps “work” difficult to assess. Research has identified motivations ranging from seeking relationships and sex to entertainment, validation and social connection.
Newer platforms are attempting to differentiate themselves through clearer relationship intentions and more deliberate introductions. Many are also trying to approach dating in a diffrent way, often by providing ways of getting users more “predictable” matches. For example, the recent shift to apps focused on share interests and IRL experiences allows users with shared hobbies to meet more organically, which provides a stronger basis for many – but not all – relationships.
Solving fatigue may require more than simply changing the lead-up towards relationships – users may be more aeger to find platforms that can “solve” dating for them and provide a much higher chance of a long-term relationship, or at least relationships that end on good terms after a solid attempt at making them work.
