Hinge CEO Exits Dating Giant to Launch New AI Dating Venture Overtone

Justin McLeod is stepping down as CEO of Hinge. The founder will launch a new AI dating service called Overtone. The move is backed by Hinge’s parent company, Match Group.

Match Group provided pre-seed financing for the new venture. The dating conglomerate plans to take a substantial ownership position in Overtone. According to a company press release, the project was incubated inside Hinge over the past year.

New AI Service Aims for More Personal Connections

Overtone is described as an early-stage dating service. It will focus on using AI and voice tools. The goal is to help people connect in a more thoughtful and personal way.

McLeod is not alone in exploring AI for dating. Bumble founder Whitney Wolfe Herd has expressed a similar vision. She aims to build the world’s smartest and most emotionally intelligent AI matchmaker.

This shift comes as the dating app market faces challenges. Tinder has reported nine straight quarters of paying-subscriber declines. Apps are now heavily investing in AI features to combat user fatigue.

AI Arms Race Heats Up in Competitive Dating Market

Major platforms are rapidly integrating artificial intelligence. Hinge just launched an AI “Convo Starters” feature this week. Tinder and Facebook Dating have also tested AI-powered matching to fight swipe fatigue.

According to TechCrunch, Tinder’s upcoming 2026 plans include a feature called “Chemistry”. With user permission, it would access camera rolls to learn more about people. This push for deeper data highlights the industry’s aggressive AI direction.

The leadership change at Hinge is immediate. Jackie Jantos, the company’s president and chief marketing officer, will become the new CEO. McLeod will stay on in an advisory role through March.

Jantos has emphasized Hinge’s commitment to intentional innovation. She recently told TechCrunch that Gen Z demands transparency and authenticity from digital brands. Hinge’s own AI recommendation feature drove a 15% increase in matches earlier this year.

The launch of Overtone signals a pivotal moment for the future of AI dating. As founders bet on artificial intelligence to revive user interest, the very nature of digital connection may be transformed.

Info at your fingertips

What is Overtone?

Overtone is a new AI dating service founded by former Hinge CEO Justin McLeod. It will use AI and voice tools to foster more personal connections between users.

Who is taking over as Hinge CEO?

Jackie Jantos, Hinge’s President and Chief Marketing Officer, is the new CEO. She has been with the company and helped shape its recent AI feature launches.

Why are dating apps investing in AI?

Dating apps face market fatigue and declining subscriber growth. Companies like Match Group believe AI features can improve user engagement and match quality, reversing negative trends.

How has Hinge’s AI performed so far?

Hinge’s AI recommendation feature launched in March. It drove a 15% increase in matches and contact exchanges in its first quarter, according to company data.

What is Match Group’s role in Overtone?

Match Group, which owns Hinge, Tinder, and OkCupid, is providing pre-seed financing. The company will also take a substantial ownership position in the new AI dating venture.