A new AI matchmaker will set you up and plan the first date for $16 — skipping the swiping and DMs

The landscape of online dating is undergoing a significant transformation, thanks to the rise of artificial intelligence. This week, Amata, a groundbreaking new dating app, is making its debut in the United States, aiming to redefine how people connect romantically. Instead of the traditional swiping through profiles, Amata users engage in conversations with an AI matchmaker, affectionately named "Amata" within the app. This intelligent assistant asks users about their dating preferences and relationship goals before suggesting potential matches. According to Amata's CEO, Ludovic Huraux, the goal is to facilitate real-life connections quickly and efficiently, minimizing the time spent interacting online. Once users are matched, they can purchase a "token" for $16, which allows them to begin organizing their date. The app's AI takes over the planning, selecting a venue based on the user's location and preferences. Just two hours before the date, a brief DM chat opens up, but otherwise, there are no ongoing conversations, which helps eliminate the clutter of typical dating app messaging. If a user cancels, they can save their token for future use. In a bid to foster genuine connections, if a user cancels twice consecutively, the app will suspend new match recommendations for a week. Huraux emphasizes the importance of intentionality in dating, stating, "We don't want people who are not emotionally available, who are on dating apps just for their ego boost. It's about intentionality." After each date, Amata follows up with users to gather feedback, which helps refine its matching algorithm for future pairings. Amata is not alone in this AI-driven dating revolution. The tech industry has seen a surge in new dating solutions, including apps like Rizz AI and various matchmaking services. With increasing dissatisfaction among users of traditional dating apps, many are turning to AI to enhance their experiences. Even venture capitalists, who had previously shunned online dating, are showing renewed interest in this sector. Founded in 2023, Amata began beta testing in Australia earlier this year before launching in New York. The startup has successfully secured $6 million in pre-seed funding, led by the venture capital firm Cassius, with contributions from Factorial Capital and prominent tech figures. This is not Huraux's first venture into the dating world; he previously founded the dating site Attractive World in 2007, which he sold to Affinitas GmbH in 2016. His latest endeavor, Amata, reflects a broader trend in the dating app landscape, where both startups and established companies are leveraging AI to enhance user experiences and foster meaningful connections. As the industry grapples with a growing sense of dissatisfaction, Huraux believes that AI can play a crucial role in reviving the dating scene by eliminating outdated practices like swiping and excessive messaging. With Amata and similar apps paving the way, the future of dating looks poised for a refreshing change.