If you’re looking for love online, you’ve probably heard about Facebook Dating, a relatively new feature that makes it easy to meet people directly through the Facebook platform. Whether you’re tired of swiping through other dating apps or you just prefer keeping everything in one place, Facebook Dating offers a more personalized and integrated approach to online dating. The great part? It’s totally free and doesn’t require you to download any separate app. You can access it right from your existing Facebook account.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to subscribe to Facebook Dating. From setting up your dating profile to navigating its features, we’ve got you covered. So, if you’re ready to take the plunge into the world of Facebook Dating, let’s dive right in!
How to Subscribe to Facebook Dating
Step 1: Make Sure Your Facebook App Is Up to Date
Before you can access Facebook Dating, you’ll need to ensure that you have the latest version of the Facebook app installed on your device. Facebook Dating is integrated within the Facebook app, so there’s no need to download a separate app for dating.
To check if you have the latest version:
- For iPhone users: Open the App Store, go to your profile icon, and scroll down to see if Facebook needs an update. If it does, tap on “Update.”
- For Android users: Head over to the Google Play Store, tap the hamburger menu, and navigate to “My apps & games.” From there, check if Facebook is listed under updates and tap “Update” if needed.
Once your app is updated, you’re good to go.
Step 2: Access Facebook Dating
Now that your app is up to date, it’s time to open Facebook Dating. The option might not be immediately obvious, but don’t worry—we’ll show you exactly where to find it.
How to access Facebook Dating:
- Open the Facebook app on your mobile device.
- Tap on the three-line menu (also known as the hamburger menu) located in the bottom-right corner for iOS or the top-right corner for Android.
- Scroll down and look for “Dating.” It should be listed alongside other services like Marketplace, Events, and Groups.
If you don’t see the Dating option, don’t panic! Facebook Dating is only available in certain regions, so make sure it’s supported where you are. Also, you must be at least 18 years old to access this feature.
Step 3: Set Up Your Facebook Dating Profile
Once you’ve accessed Facebook Dating, it’s time to set up your profile. Keep in mind, your dating profile is completely separate from your regular Facebook profile. Your Facebook friends won’t be notified that you’re using Dating unless you choose to match with them via the Secret Crush feature.
Steps to set up your profile:
- Create your dating profile: Facebook will prompt you to create a profile. You’ll have the option to import photos and basic information from your main Facebook account, such as your name and age. Alternatively, you can manually add details if you want a fresh start.
- Choose your photos: Facebook Dating allows you to upload pictures directly from your Facebook account or your phone’s gallery. Choose up to 12 pictures that best represent you.
- Fill out your bio: Make sure to include a short, engaging bio that highlights your personality. You can mention your hobbies, interests, or what you’re looking for in a potential match.
- Answer some prompts: Facebook Dating uses prompts to make your profile more interactive. Answering questions like “What’s your perfect day?” or “What’s the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?” helps potential matches get to know you better.
- Set your preferences: You’ll also be asked to set preferences for potential matches, such as age range, distance, gender identity, and more.
Step 4: Start Matching
Once your profile is all set up, you can start looking for matches. Facebook Dating doesn’t operate exactly like other dating apps where you need to swipe left or right. Instead, Facebook suggests potential matches based on the information you provided in your profile.
Here’s how matching works:
- Suggested matches: Facebook will suggest profiles of people who meet your preferences. If you’re interested, you can click on their profile to learn more about them.
- Send a like or message: If you like someone’s profile, you can tap the heart icon. To stand out even more, you can send a message along with your like.
- Profile interactions: You can comment on specific aspects of someone’s profile, like their photos or answers to profile prompts. This makes starting a conversation much easier and less awkward.
The process is straightforward and personalized, helping you connect with people who might share your interests or have attended the same events.
Step 5: Explore the Features
Facebook Dating offers a few cool features that set it apart from other dating platforms. Let’s dive into some of them:
- Secret Crush
One of the most talked-about features on Facebook Dating is the Secret Crush option. This feature allows you to select up to nine of your Facebook friends or Instagram followers as your “secret crush.” If they also add you as a secret crush, you’ll both be notified and can start chatting.
- Events and Groups
One unique feature is the ability to match with people who have similar interests by connecting through Facebook Events and Groups. If you’re both members of the same Facebook Group or have attended the same event, Facebook might suggest that person as a potential match. This adds an extra layer of familiarity and shared interests, which can help break the ice.
- Safety Features
Facebook has built-in safety features like the ability to share your location with a trusted friend or family member while on a date. Additionally, all the usual Facebook privacy settings apply, ensuring that your dating activity is separate from your main Facebook account.
Step 6: Start Chatting!
Once you’ve matched with someone, it’s time to start chatting! Facebook Dating makes it easy by keeping all conversations within the app. Messages won’t be sent through Facebook Messenger, so your regular Facebook friends and chats remain separate from your dating interactions.
Tips for starting a conversation:
- Mention something from their profile
Instead of a simple “Hey,” comment on something specific from their profile. Maybe they have a cool travel photo or a funny answer to one of the prompts—use that as an icebreaker.
- Be open and honest
It’s always a good idea to be upfront about your intentions, whether you’re looking for something serious or just want to meet new people.
- Don’t rush it
Take your time to get to know your match before meeting in person. Since Facebook Dating suggests matches based on mutual interests, it’s likely you’ll have some common ground to start conversations around.
Conclusion
Subscribing to Facebook Dating is simple, intuitive, and packed with features that help make online dating feel more personalized. From setting up your profile to using features like Secret Crush, Facebook Dating offers a fresh way to meet new people without having to download another app.
So, if you’re already on Facebook and want to dive into the dating scene, why not give Facebook Dating a try? Follow these steps, get your profile set up, and who knows—your next match could be just a click away!
