Now, more people can use Facebook Dating: Here's how
What's the story
Facebook Dating, the dedicated service to find love and matches the likes of Tinder and OkCupid, has been launched to a wider set of users.
Initially, the platform, which is free for users above 18, was only available in select markets, but now, the social network has made it available to people in the US - its primary market.
Here's all about Facebook Dating.
Facebook Dating
Facebook Dating requires you to create separate profile
Facebook Dating comes as part of the main Facebook app, rather than a separate one and lets you create a different, unlinked profile for dating.
Then, it uses profile information, interests, and preferences to suggest potential matches that may be of interest to you.
Notably, these matches could include your friends of friends or completely unrelated, unknown people.
Working
You can like or message interesting partner profiles
The interface of Facebook Dating looks a lot like that of dating app Hinge and provides the option to like, message, match an interesting profile.
Facebook says you won't see any of your friends on the service, and there will also be an option to remove friends of friends from the list of potential matches.
You can also block people specifically, if needed.
Secret Crush
Secret crush for expressing interest in friends
While your friends won't know you are using Facebook Dating, the service does have an option to express interest in Facebook friends - Secret Crush.
The feature will let you secretly express a crush on up to nine Facebook friends or Instagram followers.
If they'd do the same for you, Facebook Dating will match and notify both the parties.
Price
No ads, charges but enhanced safety
The best part about Facebook Dating is its free availability; you can use the service without paying a single penny. Plus, you don't see any ads.
Further, there is a powerful safety feature that would let you inform your friends/family about an upcoming date on Facebook Messenger and share your live location as you meet them.
Availability
Facebook Dating is now available in 20 countries
Having said that, Facebook Dating is now available in 20 countries, including Brazil, Canada, Chile, Columbia, Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia.
There's no word on the India launch of the service, but the social network has confirmed that Europe will get the service next year.
Plus, it will be updated with more features, like the ability to share Instagram/Facebook stories on the Facebook dating profile.