Hinge started as a Facebook-connected experiment called “Secret Agent Cupid,” then relaunched in 2013 as the dating app we know today—“designed to be deleted” and built for real connections over endless swipes. Since 2019, it’s been fully owned by Match Group, the parent company behind Tinder, Match, and OkCupid.
TL;DR
- Owner: Match Group (took 51% in 2018, 100% by early 2019)
- Sign-in: No Facebook login—only phone, Google, or Apple
- 2025 Features: Voice prompts, selfie verification, AI “Prompt Feedback” coach
- Market Status: One of the top dating apps in the U.S.
- Free Plan: About 8 likes per day; unlimited with Premium
Who Owns Hinge Dating?
Hinge actually began as a desktop Facebook app called Secret Agent Cupid, matching people through mutual friends. In 2013, it became Hinge, the app we now know and love. Originally launched in Washington, D.C., Hinge gained early traction—fun fact: Pete Buttigieg met his husband there! By 2017, Match Group began investing, taking majority control in 2018 and full ownership in early 2019. Today, Match Group fully owns Hinge.
Who Are The Match Group?
Match Group is the powerhouse behind many of the world’s biggest dating apps, including Tinder, Match, OkCupid, Hinge, Plenty of Fish, The League, BLK, Chispa, Stir, OurTime, Pairs, and Meetic. As of 2025, Spencer Rascoff (former Zillow co-founder) serves as Match Group’s CEO, leading continued growth and innovation across its portfolio.
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Was Hinge Owned By Facebook?
No—Hinge was never owned by Facebook. Early versions relied on Facebook connections to match users through mutual friends, but that’s long gone. In 2025, Hinge supports sign-in only through your phone number, Google, or Apple ID, keeping things simpler and more private. The app’s personal profile format—with detailed prompts and photos—remains one of its strongest features, now enhanced by AI-driven feedback that helps users write better prompt answers and improve their chances of meaningful matches. Hinge has also rolled out voice prompts and selfie verification for authenticity, staying true to its “designed to be deleted” mission.
Who Founded Hinge?
Hinge was founded by Justin McLeod, who created the app as a solution to his own dating challenges. After the “Secret Agent Cupid” experiment, he refined the idea into a modern dating experience focused on genuine connections. Under McLeod’s leadership and Match Group’s ownership, Hinge has grown into one of the top-performing apps in the world, generating hundreds of millions in revenue and helping millions of users find serious relationships.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re new to dating apps or looking for something more intentional, Hinge remains a standout choice in 2025. Its detailed profiles, human-like AI guidance, and verification tools make it a trusted favorite for singles looking for something real. The free version gives around eight likes per day, which reset after 24 hours, while Hinge Premium unlocks unlimited likes and other advanced filters. Want a better match fit? Try Dude Hack’s dating app quiz to find your best option.
FAQ
Who owns Hinge now?
Match Group owns Hinge completely. The company first bought a majority stake in 2018 and finalized full ownership by early 2019.
Do I still need Facebook for Hinge?
No, you no longer need Facebook to use Hinge. Sign up with your phone number, Google account, or Apple ID.
How many likes do I get for free?
Free users typically get around eight likes per day, which reset every 24 hours. Premium members enjoy unlimited likes.
What’s new on Hinge in 2025?
In 2025, Hinge introduced AI “Prompt Feedback”, helping users optimize their profiles. It also added selfie verification and improved voice prompt features.
Is Hinge still popular in 2025?
Yes, Hinge remains one of the most-used dating apps in the U.S. Its focus on serious relationships and Match Group’s backing keep it growing steadily.
Who is the CEO of Match Group in 2025?
As of 2025, Spencer Rascoff is the CEO of Match Group, leading the continued evolution of Hinge and other top dating apps.
