Archer, the online dating app for gay, bi, and queer men, has seen impressive growth since its launch by Match Group last year. With over 685,000 downloads since its release in New York in June, Archer has made significant strides in the online dating market. This growth is notable considering Match Group’s recent decline in paying users on Tinder, their flagship app. However, despite its success, Archer still has a long way to go to catch up to its heavyweight competitor, Grindr, which has amassed over 10 million downloads in the past year alone.
What sets Archer apart from its rivals is its commitment to creating a safe space for users. Unlike other dating apps that have been accused of fostering a toxic hookup culture, Archer incorporates various safety measures to prevent unwanted behavior. The app utilizes AI technology to auto-blur potential nudity in chat features and requires selfie verification to prevent matches from using blank profiles or headless profile pictures. By implementing these measures, Archer aims to combat body shaming and racism often prevalent on gay dating apps.
Additionally, Archer offers two different layouts for users: Dating Mode and Hookup Mode. Dating Mode provides a linear layout for users to like one match at a time, catering to those seeking serious relationships. On the other hand, Hookup Mode allows users to view multiple profiles at once and displays their activity status and preferences for casual encounters. According to the company’s findings, 66% of Archer’s users are looking for dates and relationships, while 49% seek both dates and hookups.
Archer also stands out with its array of social features. Users can follow others and add interest tags to their profiles, allowing them to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar hobbies or interests. The recent introduction of Emoji Reactions enables users to react to profiles with fun emojis, making it easier to break the ice and start conversations.
To attract more users and continue its upward trajectory, Archer plans to release new features in the coming months. Recognizing that 74% of its users are looking for friendships, Archer will prioritize community-building features, such as the ability to find users by entering tags in the search bar. The app is also exploring the addition of a Stories feature, similar to Instagram, to enhance user engagement.
Furthermore, Archer is looking to integrate AI further into the app to improve the user experience. Michael Kaye, Director of Brand Marketing and Communications at Archer, mentioned their partnership with OpenAI and their plans to explore new AI integrations. This aligns with Match Group’s increased investment in AI technology, with plans to spend $20-30 million on it by 2024.
In conclusion, Archer has made significant strides in the online dating market for gay, bi, and queer men. Its commitment to creating a safe space, innovative features, and plans for future enhancements demonstrate its dedication to meeting user needs and expectations. With its continued growth and focus on community-building and AI integration, Archer aims to solidify its position as a leading platform in the online dating space.