‘Avatars’ and audio: How the SwoonMe app is approaching online dating differently
A powerful tool in the realm of online dating is the profile picture, often determining the number of likes and matches on dating apps. However, SwoonMe, an app launched in July 2021, is shifting its focus away from conventional profile pictures to ‘Avatars’ and audio.
Co-founder Tanvi Gupta, a former Meta employee, envisions SwoonMe as a platform where users connect primarily through ‘Avatars’ rather than the traditional emphasis on physical appearance. Gupta emphasizes the challenges faced by women and minorities on social media, where judgments are often based on looks rather than personality or interests. SwoonMe aims to change this dynamic, introducing a unique approach to online dating.
Unlike typical dating apps, SwoonMe encourages users to create a profile with an ‘Avatar’—a cartoon representation of their face based on a real selfie or photo. To ensure user identity, the app requires verification by prompting users to upload another photo in a specific pose for comparison. Gupta stresses that this safety check is crucial for authentication.
SwoonMe currently utilizes third-party technology for ‘Avatar’ creation and plans to expand this feature. Once the profile is set up, the app guides users in recording an audio introduction, adding a crucial dimension to their profiles. Gupta notes that voice reveals a lot about a person, and ‘Avatars’ on SwoonMe are animated with voice, providing a unique user experience.
Interestingly, SwoonMe deviates from conventional chat features found in other dating apps. Users cannot exchange text messages until they have sent a specific number of ‘audio’ messages. Even after unlocking text chat, users cannot send photos or attachments. The app encourages a gradual reveal of real photos, allowing users to become comfortable over time.
In addition to audio messages, SwoonMe allows users to leave voicemails for others without requiring a match. Gupta describes this as a nostalgic, old-school approach reminiscent of leaving voicemails in the past.
Since its launch in India in January, SwoonMe has garnered 25,000 monthly active users, with Gupta expressing confidence in the app’s growth potential, particularly in India’s youthful demographic. Gupta anticipates increased revenue in a market where users, especially from Gen Z, are willing to invest time and money in customizing their ‘Avatars.’
Looking ahead, SwoonMe plans to introduce ‘Avatar’-based video calling, where avatars mimic users’ facial expressions and gestures. The app also aims to enhance the immersive experience of ‘Avatars’ on smartphone screens, taking inspiration from the metaverse concept.
In terms of safety features, SwoonMe allows users to report, block, and ignore profiles. The app employs AI to assess the quality of audio content, assigning scores and reviewing flagged content with human moderators to ensure adherence to community guidelines.
A powerful tool in the realm of online dating is the profile picture, often determining the number of likes and matches on dating apps. However, SwoonMe, an app launched in July 2021, is shifting its focus away from conventional profile pictures to ‘Avatars’ and audio. Co-founder Tanvi Gupta, a former Meta employee, envisions SwoonMe as…