Tinder unveils 'lite' version of its dating app

Tinder will be rolling out a Lite version of its app in South East Asia, as the people-meeting app looks to make tracks in several emerging markets as part of its growth strategy and Asia Pacific expansion plans.

The new version, Tinder Lite, will increase the app's performance and accessibility in emerging areas where data access is limited and mobile app use is more costly for users. It will improve download time while still including the 'quintessential' Tinder experience, with the standard 'Like' or 'Nope' features, matches, and chat with new people who are mutually interested in connecting.

Compared to the current app, Tinder Lite will also run faster, consume less battery on devices and reduce network usage by about 20%, which will lower data costs for users.

"As the world becomes more connected, it's essential that Tinder delivers on its fundamental value: giving users everywhere the opportunity to meet new people," says Elie Seidman, CEO of Tinder.

"Tinder Lite demonstrates our commitment to providing greater access to our expanding, global community and creating more moments for our users to connect with people they may have never met otherwise," he explains.

Seidman discussed the new app, its development and the social app's expansion plans at  RISE Hong Kong last week.

The app will be available as a separate app for Android users via Google's Play Store. Users will only need one Tinder account for both Tinder and Tinder Lite apps - and can choose which experience they prefer based on their network conditions.
Existing Tinder Plus/Gold subscribers will be able to access their premium upgrades using Tinder Lite. The company plans to update the app to include the ability to upgrade to subscriptions within Tinder Lite over time.

According to Tinder, the new app will roll out on the Google Play Store in Vietnam in the coming weeks. The company plans to expand the initial release in other parts of Southeast Asia and South America from there. Current and new users can pre-register for Tinder Lite by searching for it on the Google Play Store.