Bumble shifts from swiping to real-life group meetups to attract Gen Z users.

Bumble is moving away from the traditional swipe model in its dating app, focusing instead on real-world group events to attract Gen Z users who prefer low-pressure socializing. Its new app, Plans, facilitates platonic meetups in small groups, aiming to build friendships that could lead to romance without the pressure of swiping or exchanging phone numbers. CEO Whitney Wolfe Heard indicated Bumble is developing a new interaction model to replace swiping with more intentional and immediate connections, while also incorporating AI to improve outcomes. Despite beating earnings expectations, Bumble's revenue declined 15.2% year-over-year, and the company is still navigating a turnaround phase.