Facebook is testing a video dating app called Sparked that cycles users through four-minute dates

Facebook is testing a video speed dating app that lets potential matches meet for four minutes to see ‘if sparks fly.’

Called Sparked, the service is described as ‘video dating with kind people’ and promises no swiping, no DMs and is free to use, but requires a Facebook profile to create an account, as first reported on by The Verge.

The app cycles users through four-minute sessions, then a 10-minute second date can be setup and after that, the conversation can move to Instagram, iMessage or email.

Sparked would be Facebook’s second attempt at being a matchmaker – the social media firm launched a service in its main platform that was deemed the ‘Walmart of dating apps.’

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Facebook is testing a video speed dating app that lets potential matches meet for four minutes to see ‘if sparks fly.’ Called Sparked, the service is described as ‘video dating with kind people

However, the latest app is a stand-alone innovation with a completely different model than the typical swiping and DMs.

Sparked’s theme is focused on people being kind while looking for that special someone.

The first screen after opening an account reads: ‘Dating is better when you’re kind. We ask everyone commit to a positive dating experience.’

Although online dating seems to have been tarnished by the ever popular Tinder, which is the Wild Wild West of dating apps, Facebook is hoping to set a precedent with its video app.

Sparked would be Facebook’s second attempt at being a matchmaker – the social media firm launched a service in its main platform that was deemed the ‘Walmart of dating apps'

Sparked would be Facebook’s second attempt at being a matchmaker – the social media firm launched a service in its main platform that was deemed the ‘Walmart of dating apps’ 

The app cycles users through four-minute sessions, then a 10-minute second date can be setup and after that, the conversation can move to Instagram, iMessage or email

The app cycles users through four-minute sessions, then a 10-minute second date can be setup and after that, the conversation can move to Instagram, iMessage or email

Unlike other dating apps that ask what a user likes or is looking for in a match, Sparked’s only question is, ‘What makes you a kind dater?’

However, the service is only available for pre-sign ups and it is not clear when or if it will launch.

Facebook’s Dating app, which launched in August 2019, is still live on the social media site, but fell flat among users.

The service does not require users to mutually ‘match’ before being able to connect, and instead will let participants browse profiles via a familiar card-style cue and interact with the ones that interest them.

It works with the platform’s user data , including what you like, what events you go to, and what groups you’re a part of, to connect you to both Facebook and Instagram users who have opted in.

Sparked’s theme is focused on people being kind while looking for that special someone

Unlike other dating apps that ask what a user likes or is looking for in a match, Sparked’s only question is, ‘What makes you a kind dater?’

Sparked’s theme is focused on people being kind while looking for that special someone. The first screen after opening an account reads: ‘Dating is better when you’re kind. We ask everyone commit to a positive dating experience’

Facebook’s Dating app, which launched in August 2019, is still live on the social media site, but fell flat among users. One user shared a pictured of someone who ‘liked’ them (pictured) to joke that the experience is going well

Facebook’s Dating app, which launched in August 2019, is still live on the social media site, but fell flat among users. One user shared a pictured of someone who ‘liked’ them (pictured) to joke that the experience is going well

Facebook had initially aimed to cater to a group of people who have soured on other, less personal, dating apps and are looking for a more curated experience. But the service did not seem to be any better than Tinder, according to users

Facebook had initially aimed to cater to a group of people who have soured on other, less personal, dating apps and are looking for a more curated experience. But the service did not seem to be any better than Tinder, according to users

The app has not been a fan favorite and many users flocked to Twitter shortly after the launch to share their disgust – although some had some positive feedback.

‘Man you thought tinder was full of ratchets wait til you see Facebook Dating,’ wrote the user ‘danlacewell.’

Another Twitter users said ‘So the Facebook dating app is like Tinder, but 5% less annoying.’

And another shared a picture of someone who ‘liked’ them, which showed ‘David’ who was holding his shirt up to show off a gun tattoo on his stomach.

Facebook had initially aimed to cater to a group of people who have soured on other, less personal, dating apps and are looking for a more curated experience.

It gives users the ability to interact with profiles in two ways: by liking a profile to let someone know that they are interested or by commentating directly on a picture.

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