Facebook is testing a video speed dating app as part of its experimental
NPE (New Product Experimentation). The app is called ‘Sparked’ and it is
currently in the initial testing phase. It has been designed to let users hold
4-minute long video chats with potential matches.
The ‘swiping’ move that is usually used in the dating apps today has been removed in Sparked, and with the video feature, users will have the option to hold short video chats with potential matches. There’s also the option to hold longer video chats to assess suitability.
The key features of the app are highlighted as "no
public profiles, no swiping, no DMs", and it also promotes a positive
message around dating, with emphasis on kindness. These features make it different
from popular dating apps like Tinder. The app will be free to use, but hasn’t been
officially rolled out yet.
With people around the world turning to video calls more
than ever since the past year, the dating experience has been influenced too. Connecting
through video calls is a safer option compared to in-person meet-ups, and provides
better assurance.
