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white house teams up with dating apps to give vaccinated users free perks

AVATAR Taylor Hatmaker
Taylor Hatmaker
Culture Editor, TechCrunch
May 21, 2021
white house teams up with dating apps to give vaccinated users free perks

Incentivizing Vaccination Through Dating Apps

As U.S. vaccination rates begin to plateau, the White House is implementing innovative strategies to encourage more people to receive their shots. These efforts extend beyond public health messaging and now include appealing to individuals’ social lives, potentially even their romantic prospects.

Dating App Partnerships

The White House COVID-19 response team revealed on Friday a collaboration with several prominent dating applications. Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, Match, OkCupid, BLK, Chispa, Plenty of Fish, and Badoo are all participating in a promotional campaign designed to increase vaccination rates.

The initiative aims to connect with the collective 50 million users already active on these platforms, leveraging their existing online presence.

Perks for Vaccinated Users

Tinder users who display a vaccination sticker on their profiles from June 2nd through July 4th will receive a complimentary Super Like. While verification of vaccination isn’t required, getting vaccinated remains strongly encouraged where available.

Furthermore, Tinder and other participating apps will integrate resources from Vaccine.gov, providing users with convenient access to nearby vaccination locations.

Increased Matching Potential

OkCupid data suggests a correlation between vaccination status and dating success. Users who indicate they are vaccinated are 14% more likely to secure a match. To capitalize on this trend, OkCupid will provide vaccinated users with a free profile boost, enhancing their visibility to potential partners.

Other apps involved in the White House initiative are also offering exclusive premium features to vaccinated members.

Broader Vaccination Efforts

This campaign is part of a larger White House strategy to achieve 70% adult vaccination coverage by July 4th. The Biden administration is collaborating with various organizations, including NASCAR and CMT, to amplify vaccination messaging.

White House Perspective

During a press briefing, White House Senior COVID Advisor Andy Slavitt acknowledged the challenges of dating during social distancing. He framed the dating app partnerships as a response to the President’s call for action, rather than a formal collaboration.

“We have finally discovered the single attribute that enhances attractiveness for everyone,” Slavitt remarked. “Getting vaccinated.”

#White House#dating apps#vaccination#COVID-19#perks#Tinder

Taylor Hatmaker

Taylor's Background at TechCrunch

Taylor previously contributed to TechCrunch, focusing on a diverse range of topics.

Her coverage encompassed the realms of social media, gaming, and broader cultural trends.

Areas of Expertise

A significant portion of Taylor’s work involved analyzing developments within the social media landscape.

She also provided insights into the gaming industry, covering news and trends.

Furthermore, Taylor explored the intersection of technology and culture, offering commentary on relevant events.

TechCrunch Contributions

  • Taylor’s role at TechCrunch involved reporting on emerging platforms in social media.
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  • Her articles often examined the cultural impact of technological advancements.

Through her work, Taylor aimed to provide readers with informed perspectives on these dynamic areas.

Her contributions helped TechCrunch maintain its position as a leading source of technology news and analysis.

Taylor Hatmaker