IE 11 Not Supported

For optimal browsing, we recommend Chrome, Firefox or Safari browsers.

Can a dating service make Facebook popular again?

Answer: Facebook seems to think so.

After a rash of bad press going back to the beginning of last year, the social media platform is looking for love from U.S. users with its latest launch. Facebook Dating, which was released in other countries starting in 2018, has finally made its way to the U.S.

Available beginning Sept. 5 for users ages 18 and above, the service is integrated into Facebook’s existing app, but requires a separate profile. The service uses information like “your preferences, interests and other things you do on Facebook” to find potential matches. Preferences include things like your gender identity, which isn’t shown to potential matches, and gender(s) you are interested in.

Of course, users will be able to integrate their Instagram accounts with Facebook Dating, with the option to feature permanent posts or share their stories. For the time being, Facebook doesn’t have any plans to monetize its dating service — there are no ads and advertisers are not being given access to any of its data.

Kate is a senior copy editor in Northern California. She holds a bachelor's degree in English with a minor in professional writing from the University of California, Davis.