The Latest Dating App Where Tinder Meets TikTok
Image Courtesy: TechCrunch
Gen Z is typically caught obsessing over apps that are easy to use and present new content to our eyes in just a matter of seconds. For this very reason, we have become fixated with apps like TikTok and Tinder. To appeal to our short attention spans, Muse Media Inc. joined together to launch a new dating app that combines the elements of the two apps that we love the most. It operates for Gen Z exclusively and does not allow anyone older than 35 to join. Instead of swiping left or right on pictures, Snack has created a platform that enables us to scroll through videos similar to TikTok. However, these videos are of potential partners. While this may sound like a scary concept, I joined the app to answer all the questions you may have.
After downloading and opening the app, I was asked for my phone number and was sent a text shortly after with a verification code. Snack then requested an email address and asked permission to turn on my location services, recommending doing this to find matches in your area. I filled out all of this information, including my name and what brought me to the app. The options included: looking for friends, something casual, or starting a relationship. Next, I was asked my gender identity, birthday, and which age group I would like to communicate with, giving me the options of everyone—women, men, or non-binary people.
Snack requires you to set a profile picture and upload at least one video to your profile before utilizing the app. You are not required to fill out a bio, but you must caption the video you are uploading. This video will then play on a loop in potential matches' feeds. The app also provides users the option of trimming the video, adding text, or a filter if they would like. Once you set up your profile, your video is automatically dispatched to anyone’s feed that matches your preferred age group, is from your area, and is of the gender identity of your choosing.
Scrolling through the Snack feed looks very similar to a TikTok “For You” page. If you find someone you may be interested in; you do not swipe right or left. Instead, you click a heart “like” button. To match with someone, you and the other person must click the heart button on each other’s profile. Snack provides a text box entitled "shoot your shot" if you wish to communicate with someone who has not liked your profile back. This allows you to start a conversation with someone who has not selected you back or has not been exposed to your profile yet.
Image Courtesy: Private Capital Journal
The primary function that sets Snack aside from other dating apps is how it combats ghosting. If you communicate with someone briefly and it appears they have stopped responding to you, you can report the Snack user as a ghost. The more times that person is reported, the less they are shown on others’ feeds. In 2022, who has time to be ghosted anyways?
For the most part, the app is straightforward to use, and the setup takes no longer than ten minutes. It is not as intimidating as it sounds, but it is definitely not an average dating app. It may be something Gen Z can get behind, but I am doubtful older generations will rush to use it anytime soon.
Creators of the app have come forth to say it explicitly targets Gen Z and is open to future investments. Further, Snack recently announced that it would be launching a syndicate on AngelList: a website designed for startups, investors, and those seeking employment opportunities. This website gives startups a platform to receive funding and raise money. There is a possibility that Snack will receive the coverage it needs to become successful because it has adopted TikTok’s new third-party login, allowing users to repost their content straight to the app. When I used it, I saw many people reposting their TikToks on their profiles.
Overall, Snack is certainly a unique approach to dating that fits Gen Z’s demands. Although I will not be returning to the app, I do not discourage its use to those looking for a companion. Its anti-ghosting feature is definitely helpful to prevent future heartbreak. Ultimately, the dating world is changing, and Snack just might be its next step.
Strike Out,
Bella Kubach
Boca Raton
Bella Kubach is a Content Writer for Strike Magazine. Most of her free time is occupied by buying things she doesn’t need, reading her horoscope religiously, and making an endless amount of Spotify playlists. You can reach her at bellakubachxox@gmail.com
