This archive report was first published on 7 September 2019.
Published on September 7, 2019, Facebook has launched a dating service in the United States, marking a significant move into the online dating market.
The new service, which is available to users aged 18 and above, allows users to create a separate profile for dating purposes, which can be integrated with their Instagram account.
Users can add their Instagram followers to their Secret Crush lists, and the service will present potential matches based on location, preferences, and other factors.
One notable feature of the service is the ability to match with people who attend the same Facebook events or are part of the same Facebook groups.
However, users will not be able to see their Facebook friends in the app unless they use the 'secret crush' feature, which allows a user to express interest in a maximum of nine Facebook friends or Instagram followers.
Facebook product lead Nathan Sharp emphasized that the service is focused on conversations, rather than swiping or games, and users can share their 'stories' posts from the network to make the service more authentic.
Facebook Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg had previously announced the plan, stating that the service is designed for 'real, long-term relationships, not just hookups.'
The US launch marks a significant milestone for Facebook Dating, which is now available in 20 countries, including Brazil, Canada, and Mexico.
