Home / Business and Economy / Hinge Founder Launches AI Dating Service Overtone
Hinge Founder Launches AI Dating Service Overtone
15 Jul
Summary
- Overtone uses AI for curated introductions based on voice.
- It aims to combat dating app burnout with deeper connections.
- Match Group, FirstMark, and Pace Capital funded the $18 million raise.
Justin McLeod, the visionary behind Hinge, has stepped down from his CEO role to spearhead Overtone, a novel dating venture. The company recently secured $18 million in funding, with significant backing from Match Group, the parent company of Hinge, Tinder, and OkCupid, along with contributions from FirstMark Capital and Pace Capital.
Overtone distinguishes itself by focusing on voice and audio interactions, powered by AI to deliver highly curated introductions. McLeod emphasizes that Overtone is not a typical dating app, eschewing profile-based reductions and opaque algorithmic feeds in favor of a more intimate and considered approach.
This initiative responds to widespread user dissatisfaction, as a 2024 Forbes Health survey indicated 78% of dating app users experience burnout. Overtone plans to use AI to facilitate deeper understanding of individuals through their own voices, making introductions grounded in relationship science.
The company is set to launch later this year in select locations. Notably, relationship expert Esther Perel has joined Overtone's board, alongside Match CEO Spencer Rascoff and leadership advisor Diana Chapman, signaling a strong focus on expert-driven matchmaking.
