Key Takeaways

The dating industry has become a billion dollar market, so it’s more important than ever for dating apps to prioritize innovative and creative strategies. 

Manish Kumawat, a software engineer and co-founder of Fulminous Software, a custom app development company, said so himself when he explained how dating apps can best maximize profitability and prepare for the new age of apps. 

“Users today want more than just swipes,” Kumawat said in a press release. “They crave meaningful, personalized, and secure connections.” He explained how Fulminous Software helps “businesses tap into these trends with cutting-edge, scalable, and engaging dating app solutions.” 

On his site, Kumawat laid out specific dating app features that have proven themselves to be as profitable as they are engaging. 

AI Isn’t Going Anywhere 

The Tinder method — swiping right or left, depending on your interest in the potential match — has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s easy to understand, efficient, and adds a gamified element that keeps people’s thumbs busy. 

But according to Kumawat, this doesn’t mean there isn’t room for improvement.

In the future, AI matchmaking will ideally “be improved, and it will make matches smarter and more personal,” he explained. Fulminous Software specifically mentioned “an AI-powered algorithm to match users based on their preferences and profile information.” 

And, of course, an AI-powered algorithm comes with big moneymaking potential, thanks to its ability to keep people engaged. “AI matchmaking keeps people active, which means more subscriptions and purchases,” Kumawat said. 

Fulminous Software emphasized how AI should be used with intent and authority, meaning it shouldn’t define the matchmaking process, but simply make it a smoother and more enjoyable experience for users. 

It’s a tool that, when used correctly, enhances the user’s humanity, instead of smothering it.  

AI can help monetize certain features, particularly those that offer added personalization, a wider variety of matches, ease of use, and safety. Kumawat highlighted a few specific features that could make apps stand out, from AI relationship coaches and date recommendations to AI that detects fake profiles. 

To list every potential opportunity AI could bring to dating apps would be impossible — the possibilities are endless. Fulminous Software explained how some AI-powered dating apps have been created in response to user demand: 

“As per the demand of users’ interests, we make use of artificial intelligence technology and develop AI-powered dating apps with personalized matchmaking, matchmaking chatbots, and behavioral analysis.” 

It’s important for developers to remember this rule of thumb, according to Kumawat: “If AI offers the best features and makes users satisfied, users will be ready to pay to any extent.” 

Niche-Targeted Platforms Hold Big Potential 

While some mainstream dating apps are struggling to survive, niche-targeted platforms are thriving — or at least standing out from the crowd. 

In the LGBTQ+ niche, Grindr has experienced recent financial gains, and in the ethical non-monogamy niche, Feeld has experienced consistent growth. Their success sends a clear message: Niche communities may be smaller, but they sure can be powerful — and lucrative. 

“Most dating apps follow similar revenue models. Find gaps where your app can stay unique,” Kumawat advised. 

Fulminous Software suggested several dating app ideas aimed at niche audiences, including a video-dating app, dating apps for the LGBTQ+ community, dating apps for seniors, career-based dating apps, and travel-based dating apps, to name a few. 

Even uber-niche communities, like those of people who study astrology, are a viable demographic, according to Fulminous Software. 

The key to creating a flourishing niche dating app is to stay sharp: Keep an eye on the competition while investing in innovative and creative ways to stand out.  

Gamification Boosts Creativity and Engagement 

Without gamification elements, a dating app would depend largely on the user’s attention span for engagement. But in today’s world, where social media timelines update every millisecond, that just isn’t realistic. 

Today’s dating apps must be enjoyable, not just functional. 

“[Dating app] users who enjoy the experience stay longer and are more likely to spend money on premium features,” Kumawat said. 

There are certain features Fulminous Software recommends implementing into an app’s user interface to make it more enjoyable, like streaks, daily challenges, rewards, and even in-app currency. 

Using virtual money to buy virtual gifts can facilitate real-life connections, “boosting user engagement and giving them the best dating experience,” according to Fulminous Software. 

And of course, offering dating-centered games — matchmaking quizzes, interactive challenges, etc. — can go a long way to making an app more approachable, more fun, and even more profitable. 

Fulminous Software added how leaderboards and badges also keep people engaged with their own “performance” on the app. “People love these extras, and they help the app make more money,” Kumawat said. 

Virtual Dating Lives On 

Video dating may sound like something out of the 2000s — or out of the pandemic-era — but Kumawat pointed out its modern benefits. 

Safety is important to people on dating apps, specifically to single women. Perhaps this explains why 91% of the single women surveyed by DatingNews said they worry about their safety when they go on dates. 

Giving users the option to make virtual connections before meeting IRL can go a long way, especially with single women. Kumawat highlighted how video-first profiles, such as 30-second introductory videos, are a unique solution to a common problem. 

Video connections allow both people to see each other and interact in real time without sacrificing safety concerns. 

 “Virtual dating will let people connect and date in new ways,” Fulminous Software predicted. But this will only be possible if apps continue to evolve to the modern dating landscape. 

Video calling/chats and virtual date nights appeal to modern daters. Although video features are almost always more expensive to include, Kumawat pointed out that they can also keep users engaged, and ultimately add value.