As modern society becomes gradually more mobile-centric, the process by which individuals connect with new people is also transforming into a predominantly online experience.
To cater to this growing demand for online social connections, a vast number of apps have emerged, all using similar pairing algorithms that match users based on a limited number of general areas.
One new app looking to shake up the way mobile apps connect users is Tastemates, a new social network developed around the experience of connecting with someone over a particular shared interest instead of just their age and gender.
The app builds a general profile for each user by asking them to indicate their taste in various areas of entertainment, for example, whether they have a favourite band or type of film.
The site reads: “We believe that our taste defines us. All the movies, TV shows, music, books, games we love make us who we are.
“We thought it was the right time to build a community based on what you’re into instead of who you know.
“Tastemates helps you find and connect with people who share your taste then let’s you discover, discuss and share everything you love!”
Based on the answers given, the app will continue to suggest other things that person may be interested in, and they can then swipe to show their level of interest.
After learning about each individual’s tastes, Tastemates will then begin to show users profiles of people who have demonstrated similar interests, which they can choose to decline or connect with and begin a conversation.
Once two users mutually connect, the app will then recommend various conversation starters based on the pair’s shared interests.
When using the Tastemates, users are offered the ability to filter their search options based on standard factors like age and gender, but can also use an in-app slider function to let them decide how similar someone’s interest must be before they appear on their profile.
Speaking to TechCrunch about Tastemate’s suitability for dating, the app’s CEO Jon Vlassopulos said: “Would you rather go to a party that’s a ‘singles party’ or a regular party and there are singles there?”
The platform’s diverse approach to connecting like-minded people has caught the eye of some big industry players, and is now backed by Tastemates is backed by Facebook’s Michael Sharon and Friendster founder Jonathan Abrams.
Other investors in the app include Machinima founder Allen Debevoise, Ticketmaster CTO Jody Mulkey and WME’s Head of Digital Dan Porter.
The app is available for Android, with the company currently developing an iPhone version.
Find out more about Tastemates here.