The golden age of dating apps like Tinder is “over.” In any case, this is the conclusion drawn by Instagram, which aims to become the new dating platform for Generation Z (people born between 1997 and 2010).
Although Tinder downloads fell by 5% in 2021, the social network is therefore supported by this age group that no longer exchanges so much by SMS but rather communicates through messaging services such as Instagram. “On Instagram, DMs and messaging continue to foster connection and conversation between friends and lovers,” says the company (a subsidiary of Meta) in its trend sheet.
Dating apps, on the other hand, no longer appeal to this generation, and Instagram predicts that by “2023, Gen Z plans to use platforms like Instagram for dating.” His main argument is that messaging “provides a more transparent, honest and direct communication.” However, a user can receive a message from anyone on Instagram, there is no first selection filter.
Instagram’s second argument is based on a survey that the social network conducted in October among 1,200 young Americans: “Almost half of the Gen Z social network users answered ‘yes’ to the question of whether they would ever send a meme like first message to a partner on a dating app. Memes, those images that make noise and have fun in a parody. Far from the long texts and headaches of a first message.
Instagram neglected by Generation Z
Even more surprising, according to Instagram, Generation Z places great importance on astrology. “Nearly half of Gen Z social media users answered ‘no’ when asked if they would date someone whose star sign is incompatible.”
However, wouldn’t Instagram be the wrong target as Gen Z abandons the social network for the wonders of TikTok?the atlantic? A recent research by Piper Sandler revealed that out of 14,500 teens surveyed in 47 US states, only 20% chose Instagram as their favorite platform (TikTok was first, followed by Snapchat).
“Generation Z’s relationship with Instagram is very similar to millennials’ relationship with Facebook,” analysis for the atlantic Casey Lewis, youth culture consultant. And this loss of new young subscribers sparks fear in Instagram teams, according to the New York Times. The application, therefore, makes resolutions for this year 2023 and tries to renew itself.
Source: BFM TV
