Can Your Playlists Tell You Whether You’re Compatible?

Do you only fall for people who have the same musical taste as you? If sharing music is a top priority when it comes to love, you're in luck. A new app by Japanese TYO Inc. called Chu Chu Tune assesses a couple's compatibility by comparing their iTunes playlists.

It works like this: once the app is launched (on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod - no Android equivalent exists), you press "play" and then hold it face-to-face with your love interest's Apple device, like they are kissing. (The term "chu chu" in Japanese apparently means "kiss.") Then the apps scroll through each respective partner's playlist looking for matches. When they find a matching song, that tune starts playing on both devices. If multiple matches are found, the app ranks them and indicates to each user a strong compatibility. And if there isn't a matching song? Sad face - you get a message that you should find someone else who better suits your musical tastes.

While this seems like a fun way to flirt if you're a little shy and looking for a conversation starter, it also seems a little awkward. Isn't it easier to just ask your date what he likes to listen to, or even scroll through your playlists together looking for new tunes? Maybe I'm old fashioned, but I prefer to talk. It's kind of creepy that my iPod has to "kiss" another iPod in order to get things going. To me it's like texting when you're on a date - not very engaging with the other person.

Basing matchmaking on similar interests like music isn't a new idea. There are plenty of dating websites dedicated to people who want to narrow the dating pool down to cater to their specific preferences - whether they're vegetarians, Republicans, or dog lovers. There's a UK-based dating website called Tastebuds, which, like Chu Chu Tune, matches its members based on musical compatibility. You simply list your favorite bands or artists and then you're matched based on tastes and location. (You can also search by age or particular artist.)

I can see how Chu Chu Tune might be a good ice-breaker if you can't really find anything to talk about, or if music really is the best indicator of compatibility for you. I encourage an open mind and new ways of dating. Just remember, when you limit your choices you're also limiting yourself from a lot of great candidates. Musical preferences shouldn't be a deal-breaker. Besides, isn't it more interesting to introduce new music to each other?