Introducing the newest player in the dating app arena, Cheers, a fresh matchmaking app catering to New York City users. Created by former Instagram engineer Sahil Ahuja, Cheers distinguishes itself by offering friend-matchmaking and social posting functionalities to facilitate new connections.
Cheers, where “almost everybody knows your name,” adds a unique twist to traditional dating app mechanics. Users can swipe through profiles, engage in direct messaging, and utilize their existing friend network to act as matchmakers. This allows users to swipe on behalf of friends, share profiles, and request introductions, thus removing the awkwardness often associated with online interactions.
In addition to the matchmaking aspect, Cheers integrates social media features like unlimited photo sharing, enabling users to post multiple images and create an Instagram-style profile. Ahuja believes that this approach enhances the user experience, making the app more akin to a social platform. It also aids in the vetting process, as potential matches may be tagged in their friends’ photos.
Ahuja explained to TechCrunch, “I’ve talked to a lot of women who have felt that that’s actually something that is really beneficial for them because if they see people on there with a friend, it validates this is a legit person. They’re not sketchy. It’d be okay to go out with them in real life.”
Having spent four years at Instagram before venturing into the startup realm with his web3 company Soho, which was acquired by Sound last year, Ahuja’s dream was always to create Cheers. Working at Instagram first was a strategic move to hone his skills. Interestingly, Instagram itself has become a quasi-dating app, with users increasingly using it to slide into their crush’s DMs.
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While many dating apps are exploring AI features, Cheers is harnessing ChatGPT to recommend photos for posting and generate captions. It also leverages AI to aid users in setting up their profiles, though it prohibits AI-generated profile images.
Currently a solo endeavor for Ahuja, the focus is on refining the app before expanding into new markets or hiring additional staff. Plans to introduce paid features are in the works, with a target of reaching 5,000 users before implementation.
With 150 signups to date, new users require invites from friends to join Cheers, which is currently only accessible on iOS.
