Tinder

Launched in September 2012, Tinder is a mobile matchmaking app that connects with users’ Facebook profiles to provide pictures and ages for other users to view.

The app gathers users’ information and analyzes their social graph to match them with potential candidates who are likely to be compatible based on geographical location, number of mutual friends, and common interests. Tinder draws on GPS technology to allow users to set a specific radius; they then have the option to “match” with anyone within that radius. Users can “like” or “pass” on the potential candidates by swiping or tapping. If two users like each other, then the interaction results in a “match” and Tinder introduces the two users to initiate a chat.

The app was developed by Sean Rad, Whitney Wolfe, Jonathan Badeen, Christopher Gulczynski, Joe Munoz, and Justin Mateen. Initially piloted on college campuses, Tinder is available in 24 languages (as of April 2014). TechCrunch awarded Tinder the Crunchie Award for “Best New Startup of 2013.”