AT Proto Dating. An App idea that was talked about drunkenly over dinner, then later corroborated and explored with a handful of other individuals. I am not interested in building this app right now, but I want to float the idea in case anyone else aligns with the approach and wants to take a swing at it.
The smile
The core expression on smile protocol (not a like or a swipe).
Smile at someone that you like. If they smile back, the both of you can DM.
No template for profiles
1You can add pictures, but its not required. You can list your age, location, or gender, but its not required either.
You get to define what side of yourself you wish to show people. There is no template for self expression.
No Preferences, No Gambling
Don't waste your time scrolling for the right someone to come along.
All users who are voluntarily "on the market" are presented as a list
0Users filter the list for their desired other, rather than being fed a timeline of suggestions
This way, preferences never need to be stored. And the host of the protocol can never "game" your attention.
All interactions are public
So there is a higher bar of accountability to not be a creep.
If you want to take it to second base, open up a private 2germ DM
Would this get weird fast? Or, would it take some pressure off the dating pool?
A successful user experience could be the substrate for intimate online interactions that are always consensual, can start slow, and are not designed to harvest your curiosity.