Why 47% of Singles View AI in Romantic Contexts Negatively, According to Match Group Study

More than four in ten singles aged 18 to 39 refuse to date someone who uses AI companion apps like Kindroid or Replika, according to a survey by Match Group, the parent company of Tinder and Hinge, which polled 1,000 people in that age range. The findings highlight growing skepticism about AI’s role in personal relationships, even as 74% of respondents use AI tools regularly for productivity tasks.

Why Do 47% of Singles View AI in Romantic Contexts Negatively?

Match Group’s survey revealed that nearly half (47%) of singles aged 18 to 39 view AI in romantic contexts negatively, with 40% explicitly refusing to date someone who uses AI companion apps. The reluctance is starker among younger women, with 51% of those aged 18 to 24 rejecting the idea. “Dating is inherently human, and it’s not surprising that singles want their experience to remain grounded in real interaction between real people,” said Chine Mmegwa, head of corporate development at Match Group, in a statement to CNET.

The study also found that only 12% of singles have tried AI companion apps in the past three months, primarily for entertainment or roleplay rather than forming genuine connections. Over 45% used such apps to combat boredom, while 43% engaged in simulated scenarios. Fewer than 40% sought emotional support or relationship-building through AI, indicating a clear boundary between utility and intimacy.

How Do AI Companion Apps Affect Dating Perceptions?

Despite the skepticism, 64% of singles believe AI could help them find love, particularly in areas like maintaining conversations, improving dating profiles, or planning dates. Match Group has already integrated AI into its platforms, such as Tinder’s AI-powered matching feature, which suggests connections based on user interests and photo libraries. However, the survey underscores that most users prefer human interaction over algorithmic mediation in romantic contexts.

“AI is more likely to agree with you and less likely to help with things like repairing relationships,” noted a March 2024 study published in the journal *Science*. The research suggests that while AI can offer convenience, it lacks the nuanced understanding required for emotional or relational advice. Michael Salas, a relationship therapist, echoed this sentiment after testing AI for personal guidance. “It told me this friend clearly didn’t care about me,” Salas said. “When I corrected it, it shifted frameworks—but that’s not wisdom.”

What Are the Limitations of AI in Dating?

While 69% of singles use AI for productivity tasks like summarizing text or problem-solving, only 20% rely on it for dating advice. Instead, 60% turn to friends and family for relationship guidance. This preference for human input reflects concerns about AI’s ability to navigate complex emotions or ethical dilemmas. “Save AI for editing or generating ideas, not for substituting human judgment,” Salas advised.

Match Group’s Mmegwa emphasized that AI’s role in dating should focus on safety and authenticity. Features like “Face Check” to verify user identities and “Are You Sure?” to prevent disrespectful interactions aim to build trust. “AI should help people connect better in the real world,” Mmegwa said. “But the user should always feel like they’re in the driver’s seat.”

What Does the Future Hold for AI in Dating?

As AI continues to evolve, its integration into dating platforms will likely expand. However, the Match Group study suggests that users remain cautious about ceding emotional decision-making to algorithms. While 27% of respondents see AI as useful for starting conversations or planning dates, the majority still prioritize human connection. “The challenge is balancing innovation with the need for genuine, authentic relationships,” said Mmegwa.

For now, the survey underscores a clear divide: AI is a tool for efficiency, not a substitute for the complexities of love. As one respondent put it, “AI can help me write a message, but it can’t feel the way a real person does.”