Tinder has introduced an AI-powered update to its Photo Verification feature, replacing the previous option to upload photos with video selfies. The feature aims to make the app safer for its members and weed out spammers, as video prompts are used to match the person in the video with the person in the profile photo. Existing Photo Verified users will receive prompts to upgrade to the new feature, and Tinder Gold subscribers will be able to filter their likes for Photo Verified members only.
In today’s world of online dating, there are many challenges that users face when it comes to finding genuine matches. One of the biggest challenges is the proliferation of bots and fake profiles on dating apps. To address this problem, Tinder has been working on its Photo Verification feature. This feature allows users to prove that they are who they say they are by taking a photo of themselves in a specific pose. Now, Tinder is taking this feature to the next level by introducing an AI-powered update that requires users to take a video selfie instead of a photo.
The Purpose of the Update
According to Tinder, the update is aimed at making the app safer for its members. The company believes that requiring users to take a video selfie is a much stronger means of ensuring that people are who they say they are and weeding out spammers. The new model requires users to complete a series of video prompts, which the AI then uses to match the person in the video with the person in the profile photo the user wants to verify.
Tinder is working with a third-party partner to manage the video selfie verification process. This is an important step, as it ensures that the process is objective and fair. However, Tinder has not disclosed the name of the vendor it is working with.
Rolling Out the Update
The update will be rolled out in stages, starting on Wednesday. Users who aim to be Photo Verified or who want to maintain their existing verification will have to take a video selfie. The feature will fully replace the prior option to upload photos. Existing Photo Verified users will soon begin to receive prompts in the app to upgrade to the latest version of Photo Verification if they want to keep their blue checkmarks on Tinder.
In addition to updating the feature to use videos instead of photos, Tinder will later introduce new features that allow users to only see other Photo Verified members in their recommendations via their Message Settings. And it will allow members to ask their Matches to Photo Verify before they’re allowed to send a message. Tinder Gold subscribers will be able to filter their “Likes” page for Photo Verified members only.
The Benefits of Photo Verification
Tinder claims that Photo Verification has been proven to increase matches on the service, as users feel more assured that their potential match is a real person, not a bot — and that they look like their photos. Tinder says among its 18 to 25-year-old users, being Photo Verified gives them a 10% higher chance to match, for example. The company believes that the update will lead to more genuine connections and fewer instances of fraud and spamming.
