Match Group is preparing to launch a lite version of its Tinder app for countries where data is expensive, according to its CEO, Mandy Ginsberg. While no particular date has been set for the app’s launch, Ginsberg said that it"s due to launch soon. The announcement comes just days after Facebook said it was launching its dating product in several developing countries.
Speaking to investors, Ginsberg explained why she thinks the time is now to launch Tinder Lite:
“This area has more than a dozen high-density cities with over a million people, and more young people are moving to large cities. These are really important factors that make the need for our app high. … We are excited about the Tinder Lite app that will be coming soon. It’s a big step forward addressing the needs of consumers there. Tinder Lite will be a smaller app to download. It will take less space on your phone, making Tinder more effective, even in more remote areas or regions. And keep in mind, these are regions where data usage still comes at a premium.”
The introduction of Tinder Lite keeps in line with the launch of Lite products from other tech companies that want to expand their reach into developing countries. Services such as Facebook Lite and YouTube Go tend to be smaller in size and go a bit easier on data consumption by foregoing several features that aren’t deemed absolutely necessary.
It’s not clear what Tinder Lite will be able to do in order to make it more lightweight but it might start with Loops which very short videos people can upload instead of pictures. It’ll be interesting to see which markets Tinder Lite launches in as some of the entry level smartphones in developed countries don’t even support the main Tinder app.
Source: TechCrunch