Facebook Dating was launched in 2018 as a new way for people to find meaningful relationships on Facebook. It allowed users to create a separate dating profile, distinct from their regular Facebook profile, to connect with others who opted into using the feature. However, in September 2022, Meta announced that it would be shutting down Facebook Dating on May 1, 2023. This decision left many users wondering why Facebook Dating is going away and what it means for their dating life going forward.
The Reasons Behind the Shutdown of Facebook Dating
There are a few key reasons why Meta has decided to discontinue Facebook Dating after a few years:
- Low user adoption – Facebook Dating never reached the level of popularity Meta hoped for. Though user numbers were not published, reports indicate it lagged far behind competitor dating apps. Without enough users, it wasn’t sustainable long-term.
- Increased regulatory scrutiny – Facebook Dating prompted inquiries from regulators regarding data privacy practices. Rather than deal with ongoing investigations, shutting it down removed a compliance headache.
- Refocus on core apps – Meta is currently prioritizing resources into Reels and its core apps – Facebook, Instagram and Whatsapp. Facebook Dating was seen as a distraction from its core mission.
- Separation from Facebook brand – Meta is trying to distance the Facebook brand from controversies around misinformation and data privacy. Eliminating Facebook Dating helps create separation.
Essentially, Facebook Dating was deemed non-essential and faced hurdles that made itstrategically advantageous for Meta to remove the feature altogether.
How the Shutdown Will Work
Meta has provided details on how the shutdown of Facebook Dating will work so users know what to expect:
- New users will not be able to access Facebook Dating as of May 1, 2023
- Existing users will no longer be able to access Facebook Dating, including profiles, matches and messages, as of May 1, 2023
- Dating profiles, matches, messages, photos, videos, Likes, blocked users, events, payment transactions and more will all be permanently deleted
- Users will receive notifications informing them of the pending shutdown and deletion of data
- User feedback will be solicited to improve other Facebook experiences
So on May 1st, Facebook Dating will essentially cease to exist as all associated accounts and data vanish. Users are encouraged to download any data they may want to retain before that deadline.
Impact on Users
The sunsetting of Facebook Dating will clearly impact the experience of users who relied on the platform to make connections. Here are some of the potential effects:
- Loss of matches/connections – Any matches, conversations, dates users had initiated will abruptly end.
- Wasted money – Users who paid for premium features on Facebook Dating will no longer benefit from that investment.
- Dating profile reset – The effort put into creating an interesting dating profile will be erased.
- Less choice – Users will lose Facebook Dating as an option for meeting people online.
- Privacy concerns – Some may worry about what data of theirs will remain stored by Meta after shutdown.
While the user base may have been relatively small, those who were active on Facebook Dating will need to adjust their dating strategy going forward without it.
Alternatives to Facebook Dating
Users ready to move on from Facebook Dating may be wondering what their options are if they still want to utilize online dating. Here are a few potential alternatives to consider:
- Tinder – Extremely popular dating app with large active user base for potential matches.
- OkCupid – Well-established player with algorithm-based matching and rich profile information.
- Hinge – “Designed to be deleted” app that focuses on relationships over casual encounters.
- Bumble – Empowers women by having them make the first move when matched with men.
- Coffee Meets Bagel – Features curated matches and prompts based on ice breakers.
- The League – Caters to ambitious, career-oriented singles seeking verified profiles.
While no platform is identical, the top dating apps provide similar features such as browsing profiles, matchmaking, chat functions and more. Users may want to evaluate a few options to see which provides the best fit.
Best Practices for Trying a New Dating App
Switching to a new dating platform after Facebook Dating? Here are some tips to make the transition smooth:
- Choose an app that fits your goals – Seek relationships, casual fun or something specific?
- Build an appealing profile – Get good photos, write engaging bio/prompts.
- Be proactive with messaging – Don’t just wait for matches, initiate conversations.
- Stay safe when meeting offline – Meet in public, tell friends, drive separately.
- Manage expectations – Dating takes perseverance and patience!
- Pause if it gets overwhelming – Take breaks when needed for mental health.
Following best practices allows you to get the most out of a dating app while avoiding common frustrations. Remain hopeful but realistic as you explore new options.
Conclusion
The shutdown of Facebook Dating marks the end of an era for fans of meeting people through the social network. While jarring, users have ample alternative dating apps to switch to for continuing the quest for meaningful relationships online. Tinder, Hinge, OkCupid and others each offer robust features and large member bases to potentially discover compatibility. Transitioning thoughtfully, keeping privacy in mind, and sticking to safe dating habits will allow for success beyond Facebook Dating. Though an adjustment, single users have plenty of avenues to still find what they seek in the online dating world.