Bumble drops women-first messaging rule, allowing anyone to message first with a 72-hour reply window.

Bumble has ended its signature women-message-first rule, now allowing anyone in a match to send the first message. The app also extended the reply window from 24 to 72 hours to reduce pressure and improve user experience. This shift reflects user preferences, with many women favoring men to initiate conversations, and aims to adapt to challenges in the online dating market. Bumble is also exploring new features like swipe-free options and AI to attract more users, especially Gen Z, amid declining revenue and paying customers.