Grindr has always been acclaimed for its ability to help users connect with others seeking meaningful encounters. However, the popular hookup app is now set on streamlining the “search” process further with its new feature.
Recently, Grindr unveiled “Right Now,” a live feed feature similar to social media, which is now available to all users after a successful testing phase in select markets. Unlike the standard grid displaying user profiles based on distance, Right Now offers a continuous stream of recent updates that include text and photos, mirroring platforms like X / Twitter.
Posts shared on Right Now will disappear after one hour, and while they can be used for more than just hookups, users can indicate if they are open to hosting (i.e., inviting someone over). Initially, Grindr has stated that users in select locations will receive a certain number of complimentary hour-long Right Now sessions weekly, with the ability to refresh every Friday. Future plans may include additional options for purchasing extra sessions.
In a press release, Grindr’s Chief Product Officer, AJ Balance, highlighted that the Right Now feature aims to empower users to find what they want when they need it, eliminating guesswork. “We developed this intention-based feature based on community feedback, allowing connections with like-minded individuals while minimizing mismatched expectations,” Balance elaborated. “The strong response to our March launch prompted us to expedite the global rollout, as it’s evident that people want this… right now.”
Grindr isn’t the first to adopt features inspired by social network dynamics. Competitor Sniffies, which focuses on cruising and allows posting explicit content without requiring an account, has had a similar feature for quite some time. Right Now fits into Grindr’s larger initiative to introduce a series of innovative features—many powered by generative AI—intended to boost revenue and position the app as “the Global Gayborhood in Your Pocket™.”
The app previously introduced A-List, a tool leveraging advanced models to summarize chats, aiming to help users reconnect with meaningful connections and pursue high-potential matches. According to reports, this platform also supports Grindr’s Wingman, a generative AI assistant that assists in drafting chat responses, provides sex tips, and makes recommendations for great date locations. Some AI features are available for free, but continued access requires a subscription.
These developments form part of Grindr’s strategy to enhance revenue after experiencing significant stock price declines following its 2022 public offering. Following a 70% decrease in value post-SPAC, Grindr has been actively seeking new revenue channels while dealing with employee unionization efforts and concerns over maintaining its progressive culture.
At the recent Wall Street Journal Future of Everything conference, Grindr’s CEO George Arison discussed how AI has transformed his productivity and expressed his vision for more profound integration of AI in the company’s offerings. “For everything we develop, I want us to function like an AI-native startup,” he stated. “Approach marketing with an AI-first mindset, then adapt for the human element—this is how I believe companies will evolve, and it’s the direction we should take as a business.
