6Degrees is a new matchmaking platform with a mission to humanize dating in Vancouver.
A hybrid of traditional matchmaking services and free dating apps, 6Degrees uses machine learning to pair up compatible people for one-on-one Zoom dates.
During the pandemic, it’s been harder than ever for people looking to date to make a connection. While apps are popular, the 6Degrees team noticed for many people, the user experience of endless swiping and tip-toeing over text for weeks before finally meeting just wasn’t working.
“We created 6Degrees during the pandemic to bring people together while staying apart,” says co-founder Neil Saini. “We saw how disconnected online dating was becoming thanks to apps and endless swiping. With social distancing in place, things became even more difficult, with meeting in person being off the table. 6Degrees offers a human matchmaking approach combined with tech to bring together people for dates remotely in a whole new way… in our opinion, swiping is canceled.”
The 6Degrees process is simple. Applicants fill out a short survey, describing their interests and preferences. The matchmaking team then sifts through a database of potential matches, using a machine learning program developed by the University of California (powered by a Euclidean algorithm) to find two matches. Matches are made based on a variety of factors including personality type, goals, and interests.
After a call with a 6Degrees rep to verify identity and expectations, each applicant is set up on a one-on-one Zoom date with their matches to meet “face to face”. Each date is 25 minutes and the team provides a list of mutual interests to get the conversation flowing. Afterward, each person reports back on if they felt a spark – either for romance or friendship – and the team connects matches if the feeling is mutual.
The platform values safety; users can report a date if there is any disrespectful behaviour and no personal information is revealed. Instead, the 6Degrees team connects users to mutual matches after their dates, only if there is a mutual connection.
At $20 for two carefully matched dates, it’s designed as an affordable alternative to expensive matchmaking services and a more personalized experience than dating apps.
6Degrees was co-founded by Saini, a data scientist, and Melissa Mac, an HR professional, who also happen to be a couple.
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