I was reading an article today in Forbes.com about how Match.com is putting a ton of cash into their mobile application development. They’ve done iPhone and Blackberry apps, and now they are working on something for the Google droid phone.
I guess the thing that gets me about these apps is that they are all for the purpose of instant hook-ups. Meaning, they use the GPS systems in phones to identify all of the singles in a 5-foot radius from where you’re standing. Or something like that. Anyway, the point is to get this info so you can meet up spontaneously, instantly, right where you are. No work or planning involved.
For people downloading an app like “iHook-up”, the meaning is clear. But this kind of thing for a site like Match.com means the world of online dating could become even more confusing. Match is the dating website with the largest amount of users, which means lots of potential hook-ups. But what if you are looking for something more?
Match’s CEO claims most members are in their thirties and looking for a “more serious relationship” than just a hook-up. While I know some people use dating websites as a rolodex for hooking up, many users want to find something more substantial. So, when people start to use their phones for finding a quick date instead of searching through profiles and being more thoughtful about who they choose, will this lead to anything real?
Maybe I’m concerned for no good reason. Online dating wasn’t a great way to meet people when it first emerged, but it’s become better over time (though FAR from perfect). Maybe mobile hook-ups will go the same way?
{ 2 comments }
When will V-Day be over?
February 8, 2010
Then there are the slew of articles aimed at singles which give advice on “how to be single” on V-Day. Maybe it’s me, but isn’t it just like being single on any other day of the year? And for those who have dates, isn’t it kind of a drain on the pocketbook to go out to a nice restaurant that charges for a fixed holiday menu?
And let’s not get started on all the ads for online dating services. Meow.
I’m not very much of a romantic, and maybe that’s why the fuss surrounding V-Day gets a little old. Or maybe my head is spinning from all of the articles dissecting Lori Gottlieb’s new book Marry Him: The Case for Settling for Mr. Good Enough. Ahhh, now THAT’s a V-Day present for your special someone! I realize the title is purposefully inflammatory, but can you imagine having that sitting on your coffee table when your date comes by to pick you up? She’s coming to L.A. this Wednesday to promote it, so I may stop by and see for myself what she has to say. I’ll let you know.
I don’t mean to sound cynical for all of you who put effort in to making V-Day a special day. I like the idea of creating a romantic evening for you and your partner if you’re in a LTR or throwing a singles party if you’re not, I just don’t like that Hallmark forces us to do it on one specific day.
That said, I kinda wanna see Valentine’s Day (the movie). But I’ll probably do it on Feb 15th.
{ 1 comment }