Dating App After Tackles Ghosting & Romance Burnout

Published 21 October 2024

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2 min read

Young people around the world are feeling burnt out by dating apps. Cue After, a US-based app that aims to eradicate ghosting (cutting contact without explanation) and protect users’ wellbeing. Currently limited to residents of Austin, Texas, it caters to the 69% of Gen Zers in the US, UK, Canada and Australia who want to update current dating standards (Tinder, 2023).

Anti-Ghosting & Forthright Comms: Launched in September 2024, After aims to foster open communication by requiring users to disclose their reasoning for ending a conversation with a connection.

A connection is made after two people ‘like’ each other’s profile in the app, after which they can start a chat. If one person stops responding to messages, After nudges them to reply; if there is still no interaction, the match expires. But before the non-responder is able to find another match, they must report a reason for ending communications. Users can choose from a list of options, like “the vibes didn’t match” or “we have different goals”. If neither person messages, the app terminates the match.
Dating Profile Tips: If After notices that a user isn’t receiving matches, the app will offer suggestions to improve their dating profile, like updating their main image or refining their bio.
Wellbeing Check-Ins: In the US, 78% of romantic hopefuls say dating apps make them feel mentally or physically exhausted, while 35% are frustrated by being ghosted or lied to, and 27% fear being rejected (Forbes, 2024). To protect the mental wellbeing of users, After sends a compassionate message following the breakdown of a match, explaining why the other person unmatched them, and reassuring them that the right connection will come.

After also plans to add optional mental health checks, allowing users to reflect on their mood and feelings. It will also encourage breaks for those who’ve been using the app without luck for an extended period of time.

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