In an era of “dating app burnout”—a mix of emotional, mental and physical exhaustion from using dating apps; termed as “swipe fatigue,” an invite-only app profile or in-person service can carry more promise than a thousand aimless swipes. This shift is redefining what dating tech can look like, encouraging entrepreneurs in the space to focus less on algorithms and more on curated community. This “swipe fatigue” has become so widespread that even cultural commentators have taken note. The dating app industry, a $5 billion market, has been dominated by big players for years, but their growth is slowing down in the face of user dissatisfaction. Match Group, owner of Tinder, reported declining users and saw its stock tumble in late 2024 (subscription required), a sign that Wall Street is also feeling the “swipe fatigue.” Exclusive apps are just the beginning. Founders are launching niche platforms that blend technology with high-end matchmaking. Now, a new generation of startups is pushing the dating concept further, such as combining exclusivity with psychological assessments in order to match high-profile individuals based on deeper personality traits rather than superficial criteria. Even established dating companies are adapting under this pressure: Seeing the popularity of exclusivity, apps like Hinge and Tinder have rolled out pricier tiers and features to cater to “intentional” daters. Dating services are also branching into real-life networking, with some apps hosting members-only events at upscale venues, blurring the line between dating app and social club. The idea is to offer a lifestyle, not just an app.