Tinder Upgrades Its Photo Verification With AI

Tinder has announced the launch of its new Photo Verification feature, which includes an AI-powered update and video selfie requirement.

According to Tech Crunch, the new Photo Verification is to help users prove they aren’t a bot or catfisher on the dating app by taking video selfies that can be analyzed by AI against their photos. Previously, users were required to take a selfie as instructed by the app to compare against a profile photo, but Tinder is strengthening its process even further by requiring the video selfie, so there is no room for error.

The process for verification requires the user to complete a series of videos responding to questions or prompts, and then the AI tool scans the videos and compares them to the photos the user wants to include in their profile to see if they match. The AI tool uses 3D mapping of facial geometry for both the video and photos, according to Tech Crunch.

Once a user is approved, they will become verified and receive a blue check next to their profile. Users who want to maintain their existing blue check verification will have to take a video selfie and go through the new process. Often, lapsed Tinder users use already-verified photos when they return to the platform which can be years old. The new verification process will ensure profiles are up to date and accurate. According to Tech Crunch, the feature will “fully replace the prior option to upload photos.”

Tinder's Verified Check Mark

Image: Tinder

Tinder plans to add a feature in the coming months that allows users to restrict their messages and chats only to users who are also Photo Verified. But for now, that perk is reserved for paying Tinder Gold subscribers, who can filter their Likes page for the new Photo Verified members only.

Tinder is rallying behind this new AI-based technology and says that it’s been proven to increase matches for users. Among users 18 to 25, their target demographic, being Photo Verified gives them a 10 percent higher chance to match. Those using the platform tend to feel more confident they are engaging with a real person when they see the blue check mark and so are more inclined to match and message, according to the company. Plus, the verification mark means they look like their photos, which has been an ongoing problem across dating apps.

According to Tech Crunch, Tinder is working with a third-party partner rather than operating it in-house, but they have not disclosed who the partner is.

The new Photo Verification is now available globally. To find out more about this dating service, check out our Tinder dating app review.