Single 20-Somethings Rely on AI to Initiate Conversations on Dating Apps, Says Hinge Executive

Single 20 somethings need AI to make – Jackie Jantos, the chief executive of Hinge, has highlighted a growing trend among younger singles who are turning to artificial intelligence to help them navigate the complexities of modern dating. According to Jantos, Gen Z users, who make up over half of Hinge’s monthly active users, are increasingly using AI tools to overcome confidence gaps when starting conversations on dating platforms. She noted that this generation, which has grown up in a digital-first world, often struggles to engage in real-world social interactions, leading to a reliance on technology to bridge the gap.

The Role of AI in Enhancing Confidence

Jantos emphasized that Hinge’s AI feature, which generates conversation starters for users, is not meant to replace human effort but to act as a confidence booster. “It’s not about writing words for you,” she explained, “but about helping you express your true self.” This approach aligns with Hinge’s broader mission to foster meaningful connections rather than just casual encounters. The company has positioned itself as a platform designed for authenticity, contrasting with the overwhelming presence of other apps that prioritize speed over depth.

“Gen Z daters are passionately seeking love, but they’re facing challenges in expressing themselves confidently. The pandemic further complicated this by limiting face-to-face interactions, leaving many to rely on screens for connection.” – Jackie Jantos

Despite concerns from some relationship experts about “dating app burnout,” Hinge has seen steady growth in its user base, even as competitors like Tinder and Bumble experience declining usage. According to Ipsos iris data, Hinge’s audience increased from 1.4 million to 1.5 million adults in the year leading up to May 2025. Meanwhile, Tinder’s user numbers dropped from 1.9 million to 1.5 million during the same period, signaling a shift in user preferences toward platforms that emphasize genuine engagement.

Reduced In-Person Socializing and Its Impact

Jantos pointed to a significant change in how Gen Z interacts socially, attributing it to a decline in face-to-face socializing. She stated that young people are now spending approximately 1,000 fewer hours a year in person with others compared to their peers two decades ago. “This means they’re often alone for more than two hours a day, absorbed in their phones instead of engaging with real humans,” she said. The result, she argued, is a sense of isolation that makes it harder for users to develop the social skills necessary for in-person relationships.

The pandemic is cited as a major factor in this transformation. Jantos noted that many young adults missed out on formative social experiences, such as learning how to flirt or navigate intimacy, during lockdowns. “Those early years when people experiment with how they connect in person were interrupted,” she explained. This disruption has left some Gen Z individuals feeling disconnected, with nearly half reporting feelings of loneliness “often or always,” as per her findings.

Experts Weigh In on the Changing Dating Landscape

Dr. Carolina Bandinelli, an associate professor at the University of Warwick specializing in dating and communication, agrees that the pandemic reshaped dating for Gen Z. She observed that apps like Hinge became the primary way to meet new people, offering a convenient escape from traditional social settings. “Dating apps were sold as a solution to endless loneliness, promising access to an infinite pool of strangers,” Bandinelli said. However, she now believes the initial excitement has waned, and the reality is more complex.

“The idea that apps could solve all dating challenges was overhyped. While they provide convenience, they also remove social cues, making it harder for users to form authentic bonds.” – Dr. Carolina Bandinelli

Bandinelli highlighted that the lack of in-person interaction has led to a more transactional approach to dating. “You’re not really choosing someone; you’re guessing based on limited information,” she said. This shift has created a challenge for younger users, who may struggle to translate digital profiles into real-world relationships. Hinge’s AI tools, she noted, aim to address this by providing prompts that encourage users to share more about themselves, even if they’re still hesitant to make the first move.

The Rise of Gen Z and the Competition for Attention

While Tinder remains the most visited dating app, its dominance is now under threat. Over the past three years, its user base has declined, with Hinge now slightly edging ahead in terms of engagement. Bumble and Grindr follow closely, each vying for a share of the market. Jantos attributes this trend to a growing demand for platforms that prioritize quality over quantity, a sentiment echoed by Siobhan Copland, founder of Cupid in the City, a service catering to young professionals.

“We’re seeing a shift from chasing numbers to focusing on meaningful connections. Gen Z isn’t just looking for dates—they want relationships that feel real.” – Siobhan Copland

Copland explained that many young singles are now overwhelmed by the sheer volume of profiles and messages they receive. “It’s like being constantly bombarded with options, and people are starting to realize that not every interaction is worth the time,” she said. This realization has led to a more selective approach, where users prioritize depth over speed. For Gen Z, this means avoiding the pitfalls of “burnout” and seeking a more intentional dating experience.

Hinge’s Vision for the Future of Dating

Jantos also addressed the perception that Hinge’s AI tools might be reducing the role of human agency in dating. She argued that these features are meant to support, not substitute, genuine interactions. “We’re not creating a dependency on AI,” she said, “but rather empowering users to feel more comfortable in their own skin.” Hinge’s slogan, “designed to be deleted,” is another key element of its brand identity. Jantos dismissed claims that it was merely a marketing ploy, insisting that the phrase reflects the company’s belief in moving forward with meaningful connections rather than staying on apps indefinitely.

As Gen Z continues to shape the dating app landscape, the balance between technology and human connection remains a central debate. Jantos believes that AI can help bridge the confidence gap, especially in an era where social interactions are increasingly mediated by screens. However, she also acknowledges the importance of in-person experiences, which are essential for building the emotional and social skills needed for lasting relationships.

The Broader Implications of a Digital-First Culture

The conversation around Gen Z and dating apps extends beyond individual users. It reflects a broader cultural shift toward digital engagement, where technology often serves as a substitute for real-world interaction. Jantos noted that this trend is not just about convenience but also about how younger generations perceive their social lives. “They’re more likely to be at the gym than at a bar, which shows a different way of connecting,” she said.

With this in mind, Hinge is positioning itself as a platform that adapts to the needs of a tech-savvy, socially conscious generation. Its AI-driven features are part of a larger effort to make dating more accessible, while still emphasizing the value of human connection. As the competition intensifies, the company’s ability to maintain this balance may determine its long-term success in an evolving market.

In conclusion, the rise of AI in dating apps like Hinge highlights the challenges young singles face in a world where digital interactions dominate. While some experts warn of burnout and a loss of organic socialization, others see it as a necessary evolution. For Gen Z, the key lies in leveraging technology without losing sight of the emotional depth that in-person relationships provide. As Hinge continues to grow, its role in shaping the future of dating remains a topic of ongoing discussion and innovation.