Why Dating Apps In 2026 Still Can’T Get Users To Open Up

Dating Apps in 2026: More Pixels, Same Problems

Rachel Thompson, known for her insightful take on modern relationships, is at it again with her new book, The Love Fix: Reclaiming Intimacy in a Disconnected World. Released in January 2025 by Penguin Random House, it delves into the perplexing world of dating in our digital age. As the Features Editor at Mashable, Rachel brings her expertise to the fore, illuminating why dating might feel harder than ever and how we can shift our culture for the better.

It's 2026, and while dating apps like Bumble, Tinder, and Hinge have undergone countless updates, one issue persists – users not putting enough effort into their profiles. Rachel recalls a particularly amusing Bumble encounter: "Not hot enough to have no bio." It's a sentiment that resonates with many swipers – even celebs on Raya offer some insight into who they are, no matter how brief.

No Effort, No Match

If there's a surefire way to get Rachel to swipe left, it's a blank profile. A profile with just a lonely punctuation mark or a single emoji doesn't cut it. "Photos can only take you so far," Rachel notes. While it may seem trivial, a well-crafted bio is an early demonstration of relationship skills, as Janee Young, a licensed therapist, emphasizes.

“The profile itself is one of the earliest relationship skills that a person will demonstrate,” Young states, highlighting how the effort (or lack thereof) can speak volumes about a potential partner.

Paul Brunson, Tinder’s global relationship expert, agrees. Leaving your bio blank is a missed connection opportunity. "It doesn't offer a sense of who you are," he says. A few meaningful lines can bridge the gap between a swipe and a conversation, making the difference between a ghosted chat and a real connection.

Breaking Down the Barriers

According to Hinge, 61% of users want to see more than just pictures; they crave insight into potential partners' lifestyles and interests. Negative bios or ones complaining about dating app culture are just as detrimental, according to Brunson. Leading with negativity rarely attracts the results one hopes for.

Therapists like Brian Lutz warn against the pitfalls of empty profiles. He notes, "The amount of effort you put into your initial introduction will provide the other person with information about your emotional availability." A blank profile can force others to make assumptions, often leading to mismatches.

Conversations That Count

In an era of dating app fatigue, where daters face constant ghosting and lackluster openers, it's essential to provide conversation starters. Rachel pleads for profiles that offer more than superficial details. She hopes for a sprinkle of personality and a dash of wit to spark genuine connections.

So, if your dating app profile is looking sparse, consider this a call to action. Fill in those blanks and let your true self shine through. Your matches – and perhaps your future self – will be grateful for the effort.