Hinge has introduced innovative features to better support neurodivergent daters, addressing communication challenges and fostering more inclusive connections. The centerpiece is Match Note, launched on February 26, 2025, which allows users to privately share key personal details with matches before starting a conversation. Developed with input from neurodivergent communities and organizations like Disability:IN, the feature aims to reduce misunderstandings and empower users to express their needs authentically.
Addressing Neurodivergent Dating Challenges
Neurodivergent daters often face misinterpretations due to communication differences. Hinge’s October 2024 “Love and ADHD” report revealed that 75% of daters with ADHD feel misunderstood, particularly around delayed responses and struggles with small talk. For example:
- 43% of ADHD daters forget to reply to messages, unintentionally signaling disinterest.
- 31% of ADHD daters dislike small talk, making early conversations harder to sustain.
Match Note provides a dedicated space to clarify communication styles, accessibility needs, or other preferences upfront. During testing, 68% of users found the feature improved compatibility assessments, with neurodivergent daters using it to explain their unique approaches to interaction.
How Match Note Works
- Users can add a 255-character note visible only after mutual likes.
- Matches must acknowledge the note to start chatting, ensuring both parties align on key details.
- Neurodivergent testers shared examples like setting expectations for response times or disclosing sensory preferences.
Reddit users praised the feature for allowing them to move “disclaimers” off public profiles. One autistic user noted it helped avoid stereotypes while still communicating needs.
Broader Initiatives for Inclusivity
Hinge’s efforts extend beyond Match Note:
- Gender Toggle: Lets bi+ users control gender preferences in recommendations.
- Prompt Feedback: AI tool to craft authentic profile responses.
- Collaboration with advocates like Logan Ury (Hinge’s relationship scientist) and Moe Ari Brown (LMFT) to reshape dating norms.
Jackie Jantos, Hinge’s CMO, emphasized the company’s goal to “create an inclusive environment where all daters can express themselves authentically”. These updates reflect growing demand for platforms to accommodate diverse needs, particularly as 83% of trans/nonbinary testers also reported feeling more authentic using Match Note.
By prioritizing intentional communication, Hinge continues bridging gaps between neurodivergent and neurotypical daters—proving that small design changes can foster meaningful connections.
Citations:
- https://hinge.co/press/match-note
- https://hinge.co/press/love-and-adhd-report
- https://www.fastcompany.com/91284805/hinge-match-note-trans-and-neurodivergent-daters
- https://diva-magazine.com/2025/02/26/hinge-match-note/
- https://ground.news/article/hinge-users-can-now-share-private-details-to-matches
- https://www.reddit.com/r/hingeapp/comments/1j0ubcm/hinge_launches_match_note_to_support_the_unique/
- https://mashable.com/article/hinge-match-note-share-private-details-feature
- https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jackiejantos_hinges-new-feature-wants-to-help-trans-and-activity-7300799121253158912-a_9U
- https://www.tiktok.com/@newlynova/video/7428654873987616042
- https://techcrunch.com/2025/02/26/hinge-launches-a-new-feature-for-daters-to-privately-share-details-with-matches/
- https://www.globaldatinginsights.com/featured/hinge-introduces-match-note-feature-to-clarify-key-profile-details/
- https://app.daily.dev/posts/hinge-launches-a-new-feature-for-daters-to-privately-share-details-with-matches-f0jvsapej
- https://www.linkedin.com/posts/brianna-boone-7b9107129_hinges-new-feature-wants-to-help-trans-and-activity-7300585966451249152-pk7Y
- https://images.fastcompany.com/image/upload/f_webp,c_fit,w_1920,q_auto/wp-cms-2/2025/02/p-1-91284805-hinges-new-feature-wants-to-help-trans-and-neurodivergent-daters.jpg?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjv_93Q_PWLAxWRG9AFHeSwG8kQ_B16BAgJEAI
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenaquino/2024/05/23/how-collage-connections-is-forging—true-connection-for-every-neurodivergent-person/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/neurodiversity/comments/vad6m2/how_to_hint_youre_neuro_divergent_on_dating_apps/
- https://diva-magazine.com/2024/10/22/hinge-report-love-and-adhd/
