Milestones

eHarmony Compatibility Scoring

Ever wondered why eHarmony thinks you are more compatible with some matches than others? Now, the company is offering a look behind the curtain of its secretive matching algorithm by unveiling key dimensions of compatibility to users.

The veteran online dating company is introducing a new compatibility scoring feature called “The Two of You Together,” where people can identify the matches who score at an advanced level of compatibility. This feature will show the top three attributes for matches that predict successful and lasting relationships. In addition, users can drill down to see how a match scores on all dimensions such as emotional energy, kindness and intellect, and learn more about what each means.

Previously, each new eHarmony member was provided with an analysis of his/her personality type and preferences, including strengths and weaknesses when it comes to forming relationships. This new feature adds depth to this process by showing “behind the scenes” why you might connect better with one match than another.

Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Tinder…

It’s officially been four years since Tinder first appeared in app stores (this past October). Today it boasts over 40 million users worldwide and more than a billion daily swipes. It’s used in 196 countries, has been downloaded 100 million times, has made 10 billion total matches, and has launched 1.5 million dates. Tinder is now worth a reported $1.2 billion. It’s the app everyone loves and loves to hate.

In honor of the big birthday, let’s take a stroll down memory lane and remember how Tinder became mobile dating’s flashiest success story.

Selecting your Gender on Tinder

Last month, Tinder rolled out a new feature for its popular dating app that provides daters with more gender options to complete their profiles. Following a similar move by OkCupid, Tinder users will be given more options than just “male” and “female” when selecting a gender.

By selecting the “More” option, users can choose between almost 40 identities, including “non-binary,” “transgender woman,” “transgender man,” “transmasculine,” “agender,” “two-spirit” and “other.” Users can also write in their own gender identity if none of these options apply.

According to website Slate, this was a move forward by Tinder to reach out to the trans community, who have reported being discriminated against and harassed on the app. Trans users were frequently reported as “spam,” or accused of trolling on the app, typically by other users who weren’t happy to be matched with someone who was trans. As a result of this false reporting, trans users often found themselves unfairly blocked, as Tinder didn’t have the capacity to thoroughly verify each complaint.

The finalists have been selected for the 8th annual iDate Awards. It’s now up to the public to choose the winners.

Each year, the iDate Awards highlight the people and websites that represent the best and most innovative aspects of the online dating, matchmaking, and date coaching businesses. The winners will be announced at the iDate Awards ceremony on the night of January 25, 2017 in Miami. The ceremony will fall on the final evening of the 47th international iDate Dating Industry Super Conference, the industry’s largest convention and expo.

This year’s winners will be selected from thirteen categories:

Gay men and women are now allowed to search and meet through dating site Christian Mingle, one of the largest niche dating sites in the industry. The site opened its platform to gay users after settling a lawsuit that claimed that it violated California’s non-discrimination law on the basis of sexual orientation.

According to the conditions of the settlement, Spark Networks who own Christian Mingle among other dating sites, will change their homepages to allow users to specify if they are a man or a woman, and also if they are looking for men or women. While Spark also agreed to create a more comprehensive and tailored matching service for users seeking same sex relationships within the next two years, the dating site Christian Mingle as it exists for gay singles can be frustrating.

It's the end of an era. Los Angeles-based dating site eHarmony has announced that Neil Clark Warren - co-founder and star of the company's television ads – will retire as chief executive officer. He will remain as chairman, and longtime Vice President Grant Langston will take over as CEO.

Langston joined eHarmony in 2000 in preparation for the launch of the original site. Prior to that, he spent ten years in advertising and music marketing. In his role with eHarmony, Langston focused on the company's marketing efforts, customer care, content creation, social media, and product launches.

eHarmony board Director Jamie McJunkin said Langston “is a natural choice to succeed Dr. Warren as CEO as he has been at his side since the inception of the company. His level of experience in the field of online dating is unparalleled and we are pleased to elevate him to this position.”