Known’s Voice AI Rewrites Dating App Rules, Secures $9.7 Million from Investors

A new dating app is betting that conversation, not swiping, is the future of finding love. Known, a startup founded by Stanford dropouts, uses a voice AI to onboard users. It has just raised $9.7 million in seed funding. The round was led by Forerunner Ventures and NFX.

This investment marks a notable shift, as it is Forerunner’s first in a dating app. The startup is currently in a beta test in San Francisco. Early data suggests its unique approach is resonating with users seeking more meaningful connections.

From Restaurant Booker to Dating Disruptor

Co-founders Celeste Amadon and Asher Allen initially worked on an AI for booking restaurant dates. Their breakthrough came from a voice-powered onboarding system. This system helped them learn about users without tedious forms.

They discovered people loved to talk to the AI. Onboarding sessions averaged 26 minutes, with one lasting over an hour and a half. This deep conversational data became the foundation for Known. According to TechCrunch, the app uses this data to understand nuanced user preferences that are rarely put in a written profile.

The goal is to serve highly compatible matches quickly. Known’s AI suggests profiles, and users can query an AI agent about them. If both parties are interested, they have 24 hours to accept an introduction and another 24 to agree on a date. This structure is designed to reduce ghosting and encourage real-world meetings.

Early Signals Show Strong User Engagement

The initial beta test in San Francisco has shown promising results. Known reports that 80% of its introductions lead to in-person dates. This is a significantly higher conversion rate than typical swipe-based applications.

The funding will help the company grow its team and prepare for a broader launch early next year. Known currently charges a $30 fee per successful date during its beta phase. The company says it will experiment with different payment models in the future.

Investors are drawn to the focus on a better experience, particularly for young women. Forerunner’s Eurie Kim noted the app captures unspoken desires through conversation. This was previously only possible with expensive, human matchmakers.

The launch of Known highlights a growing trend of using advanced AI to combat dating app fatigue. Its voice-first approach could redefine how people find connections online.

Info at your fingertips

How does Known’s AI onboarding work?

Users have a conversation with a voice AI instead of filling out a form. The AI asks dynamic questions and follow-ups to learn detailed preferences. This creates a more personal and comprehensive user profile.

What makes Known different from apps like Tinder or Hinge?

It replaces the swipe model with AI-curated matches based on deep conversational data. The app also enforces a 48-hour window to move from a match to planning a date. This aims to speed up real-life meetings.

How successful has Known been so far?

In its San Francisco beta, 80% of introductions led to in-person dates. The startup has raised $9.7 million from top-tier investors based on this early traction. This is Forerunner Ventures’ first investment in a dating app.

Does Known help plan the dates?

Yes. The app helps pick restaurants based on user preferences discussed during onboarding. It also uses calendar integrations to help users coordinate their availability for that first meeting.

When will Known be available to everyone?

The company is currently in a beta test limited to San Francisco. A wider public launch is planned for early next year. The funding will support this expansion.