Bumble CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd discussed the company’s plans to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into its apps at Code Conference 2023. The goal is to use AI to enhance the user experience, from providing guidance in dating and relationships to eventually acting as intelligent matchmakers to streamline the process for users.
Herd first revealed Bumble’s investment in AI during an interview with Bloomberg earlier in the month. At the Code Conference in Dana Point, California, she explained how AI could improve matches, save time for users, and even provide coaching. The idea is to view AI as a tool that enhances love and relationships.
Bumble aims to use AI to assist users before they meet others by addressing concerns about dating. By leveraging AI, the company can train users to interact in a positive way, boosting their confidence and facilitating meaningful connections.
It’s important to note that Bumble does not intend to replace humans with bots or encourage users to fall in love with digital partners. Instead, the focus is on integrating AI in a way that reduces the time between matching and meeting in person. Bumble wants to ensure that users don’t spend excessive amounts of time on the app.
In the future, Bumble envisions using AI as a matchmaker that considers users’ dating preferences and deal breakers. For instance, AI could analyze values, ideal vacations, and preferred activities for a weeknight. By quickly sifting through potential matches, AI can present users with the most compatible options. AI might even use image recognition to match users based on their shared preferences for restaurants and brands.
Bumble is currently working on a more exclusive tier of service, beyond Bumble Premium, that will offer enhanced matchmaking capabilities. This premium service, which will be priced higher, aims to save users time and effort by utilizing AI to curate matches.
Herd acknowledged that some women have expressed a desire for Bumble to do the swiping on their behalf due to time constraints. Bumble’s forthcoming AI-powered service aims to meet this demand and provide a curated and selective experience.
As Bumble explores the use of AI, the company remains committed to user protection. It is developing terms and conditions to outline how AI tools will be utilized. Bumble recognizes the potential for AI abuse, such as in pornographic deepfake imitations, and is actively working with technology and media partners to combat such issues. This commitment to user safety will be accompanied by other initiatives, including legislative measures.
In conclusion, Bumble is embracing AI to enhance its dating and relationship apps. The company aims to leverage AI as a tool to improve matches, save time, and provide users with a more curated and selective experience. Bumble is committed to protecting users and is taking steps to ensure responsible AI implementation.
