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Dating apps are a dime a dozen, landing your idea squarely in the 'Swamp' category, indicating a market saturated with mediocre solutions. The fact that we only found 3 similar products suggests that while the core idea isn't brand new, it's not overly explored either, giving us medium confidence in our assessment. However, the low engagement (avg of 1 comment) on these similar apps isn't encouraging; it means there's little to no public feedback about these apps. You are considering profile validation and requiring reasons for likes. This might address some issues with superficial swiping, but you need to make sure that you are solving a problem that people actually have. It also might create a lot of friction, which might lower the number of matches.

Recommendations

1. Deeply research why existing dating apps, especially those with similar validation or 'reason for like' features, haven’t achieved widespread success. What are the core pain points users experience that current solutions fail to address? Look at the HeyDosti Dating App and the concerns about the website design triggering OCD and the limitation to regional languages.
2. Instead of trying to compete head-on with giants like Tinder or Bumble, identify a specific niche or underserved demographic with unique dating needs. For example, focus on a specific age group, interest group, or cultural background to offer a tailored experience.
3. Consider building tools or features that can be integrated into existing dating platforms instead of creating a standalone app. This could be a profile verification service or a 'reason for like' plugin.
4. Explore adjacent problems within the dating or social connection space that might be more promising or less crowded. Could you focus on tools for relationship building, communication, or safety?
5. Before investing significant time and resources, validate your assumptions about user needs and preferences through user interviews, surveys, and prototypes. Focus on understanding whether people are willing to validate their profiles and write a reason for each like.
6. Clearly define what makes your dating app fundamentally different and better than the competition. Is it the level of validation, the quality of matches, or a focus on meaningful connections? Articulate this unique value proposition clearly.

Questions

1. What specific frustrations do users have with existing dating apps that your validation and 'reason for like' features directly solve, and how have you validated these frustrations exist?
2. How will you balance the need for thorough profile validation with the potential for increased friction and reduced user acquisition?
3. Given the low engagement observed in similar dating apps, what innovative strategies will you employ to foster active participation and meaningful interactions within your platform?