Hinge founder leaves CEO role to launch AI-powered dating startup

Justin McLeod, the visionary behind the popular dating app Hinge, is stepping away from his role as CEO to embark on an innovative journey with a new AI-powered dating service. This strategic shift was announced by Match Group, the parent company of Hinge, which revealed that Jackie Jantos, formerly the president and chief marketing officer, will take over as CEO. In a statement, McLeod expressed his confidence in Hinge’s trajectory, emphasizing the app's impressive growth, which is projected to reach $1 billion in revenue by 2027. Since founding Hinge in 2011, McLeod has been integral to its success and will continue to provide advisory support until March. His new venture, Overtone, aims to leverage artificial intelligence and voice technology to foster deeper, more meaningful connections among users. Throughout this year, McLeod has dedicated significant effort to developing Overtone, with backing from Match Group, which is set to lead the startup's initial funding round in early 2026. Match Group, which also owns popular platforms like Tinder, will maintain a substantial stake in Overtone. The company’s CEO, Spencer Rascoff, will join Overtone's board, highlighting the strong support for McLeod's new initiative. Rascoff remarked on the pride in having nurtured Overtone within Hinge and the excitement about leading its funding efforts as McLeod ventures into this new phase of innovation.