Fed up with the endless swiping and superficial interactions of traditional dating apps, a growing number of Gen Z users are turning to AI-powered alternatives that promise more meaningful connections. Ditto, a new dating service co-founded by UC Berkeley dropouts Allen Wang and Eric Liu, is at the forefront of this shift, offering a text-based, AI-driven matchmaking experience tailored to college students.
From Swipe Fatigue to AI Trust
The disillusionment with swipe-based apps like Tinder and Hinge has been well-documented, with many users reporting burnout and frustration. In response, startups like Ditto are leveraging AI to streamline the dating process, focusing on deeper compatibility rather than physical appearance alone. As Wang explained to TechCrunch, “As Gen Z ourselves, we were firsthand witnessing the behavioral shift in terms of how people are connecting with each other. We see that people are getting super tired of all the endless swiping and endless small talk, and they’re really looking for something more genuine in real life.”
How Ditto Works
Unlike conventional apps, Ditto requires no download. College students sign up by texting a specific iMessage number with a code. An AI chatbot then introduces itself as Ditto, describing the service as “a dating initiative built by college students who get it … no swiping, no awkward DMs, just real dates every Wednesday at 7 pm.”
The onboarding process is entirely text-based. Users provide basic details such as name, gender, and birth date, followed by more in-depth questions about personality, interests, and dating preferences. Some users even upload photos of their celebrity crushes to give the AI a sense of their “type,” helping it make more nuanced match suggestions.
Matching Beyond Shared Interests
Ditto’s algorithm takes a distinct approach: it matches people not simply on similar hobbies and interests, but on what those interests reveal about an individual’s character and values. This shift reflects a broader trend in 2026, where AI is being used to interpret behavioral cues and emotional intelligence, moving beyond surface-level data to foster deeper connections.
As the dating app landscape evolves, AI matchmakers like Ditto are challenging the status quo, offering a glimpse into a future where technology facilitates more intentional and genuine relationships.
via TechCrunch AI