Tinder has introduced a new Double Date feature in an attempt to boost user engagement among younger demographics. This feature, launched on Tuesday, enables users to pair up with friends and engage in group chats with potential matches.

The Double Date feature allows users to team up with a friend and browse through other paired users who share similar preferences, such as gender and sexual orientation. When a match is made, a group chat is initiated, involving all four participants. Users also have the option to like an individual profile and engage in one-on-one conversations if they prefer. Up to three friends can be invited to join this new dating experience.

By facilitating double dates with friends, Tinder aims to reduce the pressure and anxiety often associated with solo dating, creating a more relaxed environment for all parties involved.

According to Cleo Long, head of product marketing, “In early testing, users consistently reported feeling more comfortable being their authentic selves when connecting with a friend, which often led to stronger engagement. The group chat format helps break the ice and makes it easier to plan casual meetups, whether they evolve into friendships, romantic connections, or something in between.”

The launch of Double Date comes after Tinder’s parent company, Match Group, reported a 5% decline in paying subscribers, totaling 14.2 million in the first quarter across its dating apps.

The introduction of Double Date may be an effort to regain lost users and attract new ones. Early testing results were promising, with nearly 12% of users who accepted a Double Date invite being either new or returning users.

Internal data reveals that individual users participating in Double Date chats sent 25% more messages compared to typical one-on-one conversations. The message volume in these group chats was found to be 35% higher, particularly among users under 29.

The Double Date feature was initially tested in select markets, including parts of Latin America, Spain, and the Nordics. A global rollout of the feature is scheduled for July.

There is a growing interest in group-oriented dating experiences, with similar apps like Fourplay, DuoDate, and Doubble finding success in this niche. A report from UK-based dating app Slide 1828 found that 48% of Gen Z respondents believe that double dates could alleviate dating anxiety.

In addition to Double Date, Long mentioned other features, such as Matchmaker and Share My Date, as similar options that help “turn dating into more of a team sport.” Long noted that a recent Tinder report found that nearly half of singles seek support from friends when navigating the dating scene.

The Double Date feature builds upon past concepts, including the earlier Tinder Social, but focuses more on creating a serious yet comfortable dating experience rather than a party atmosphere.