Tinder Tests New Height Preference Feature for Users

Tinder has played a significant role in shaping modern dating culture, often prioritizing physical appearance. In a recent development, the app is experimenting with a new feature aimed at enhancing user experience. Selected Tinder Gold and Tinder Platinum subscribers will soon have the ability to set a preferred height range for potential matches within the app, according to TechCrunch. This feature was first reported by users who discovered the option in the app’s “Discovery Settings.”

Understanding the Height Preference Feature

By specifying a preference for matches who are 5’10” and taller, users may not completely exclude shorter individuals from their search results. However, this setting is expected to influence the recommendations provided by the app as users swipe through profiles. Historically, Tinder has allowed users to express their preferences in their profiles, with many individuals elaborating in their bios about specific traits or interests they seek in potential partners. The introduction of height preferences as an official setting formalizes this aspect of user choice.

Implications of the New Feature

Given the existing perception of dating apps as platforms that often emphasize superficial qualities, this new feature may be seen as somewhat provocative. It also indicates Tinder’s evolving approach to its paid subscription services. Rather than merely expanding the visibility of user profiles, the app appears to be focusing on providing users with more precise control over their matching criteria.

Phil Price Fry, Tinder’s Vice President of Communications, stated, “This is part of a broader effort to help people connect more intentionally on Tinder. Our new product principles guide every decision, and this one speaks directly to a few: prioritizing user outcomes, moving fast, and learning quickly.” He further explained, “Not every test becomes a permanent feature, but every test helps us learn how we can deliver smarter, more relevant experiences and push the category forward.”

Challenges of Dating Profiles

While the ability to set a height preference may enhance user experience, it does not eliminate the issue of dishonesty in dating profiles. As noted by TechCrunch, Tinder has previously joked about implementing height verification to address this concern. The challenge of ensuring authenticity in user profiles remains a significant aspect of online dating.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at Engadget.