If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of online dating but want something simple and trustworthy, Facebook Dating might be just the thing for you. With millions of people already on Facebook, its dating feature is like a natural extension that makes finding potential matches easier, all within the app you probably already use every day. But how do you get the Facebook Dating app on your phone? Is it a separate app? Is it easy to set up? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Facebook Dating and how you can start swiping and chatting in no time.
What Is Facebook Dating?
Before we jump into the “how,” let’s quickly cover the “what.” Facebook Dating is Facebook’s own dating service, launched in 2019. It’s built right into the Facebook app, so there’s no separate app to download. The idea is to make dating safer, more convenient, and less intimidating by using the information and connections you already have on Facebook.
Unlike other dating apps where you start fresh, Facebook Dating lets you create a dating profile linked to your Facebook account, but your Facebook friends won’t be able to see it unless you choose to share. It also suggests matches based on your preferences, interests, and activities on Facebook.
Why Choose Facebook Dating?
You might be wondering why pick Facebook Dating over big names like Tinder, Bumble, or Hinge. Here are some reasons people love it:
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No Extra App: Since it’s integrated into Facebook, you don’t need to clutter your phone with another app.
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Safer Vibes: It uses your Facebook profile to verify you, which helps reduce fake profiles.
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Secret Crush: A cool feature where you can pick up to nine Facebook friends or Instagram followers you like — if they add you back, you both get notified. Otherwise, it stays a secret.
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Event and Group Integration: You can see potential matches who attend the same events or belong to the same groups as you.
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Free to Use: No paid subscription required — it’s completely free.
How to Get the Facebook Dating App on Your Phone
Now to the main question: How do you get the Facebook Dating app? Here’s the good news — you don’t need to download a new app at all! Facebook Dating is built into the Facebook app. All you need to do is make sure you have the latest version of the Facebook app on your phone, and then enable Dating from within the app.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Update Your Facebook App
If you haven’t updated your Facebook app recently, now’s the time. Facebook regularly rolls out new features, and you need the latest version to access Dating.
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For iPhone: Go to the App Store, tap your profile icon at the top, and scroll to find Facebook. Tap “Update” if available.
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For Android: Open Google Play Store, search “Facebook,” and hit “Update” if there’s a newer version.
Step 2: Open Facebook and Find Dating
Once updated, open the Facebook app.
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Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) — it’s usually at the bottom right on iPhones or top right on Android.
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Scroll down until you see Dating (with a heart icon). If you don’t see it immediately, try searching for “Dating” using the search bar in the menu.
Step 3: Set Up Your Dating Profile
Tap “Dating,” and you’ll be prompted to create your dating profile. This is separate from your main Facebook profile but uses your Facebook info to speed things up. You’ll be asked:
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To add photos (you can use existing Facebook or Instagram photos).
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To write a short bio.
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To choose your preferences: age range, location, and gender you want to see.
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To set your deal-breakers or match criteria.
You can also control what information is visible on your dating profile — it won’t appear on your main Facebook timeline.
Step 4: Start Browsing and Matching
Once your profile is set up, Facebook Dating will start suggesting matches based on your interests, activities, and preferences. You can swipe right to like someone or left to pass. If someone likes you back, it’s a match! You can then start chatting right inside the Dating section.
Troubleshooting: What If You Don’t See Facebook Dating?
Facebook Dating isn’t available everywhere yet, and there could be a few reasons why you don’t see it:
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Geographic Restrictions: Facebook Dating is only available in certain countries. If you’re outside these regions, it might not be visible.
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Age Restrictions: You need to be at least 18 years old to use Dating.
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App Version: Make sure your Facebook app is fully updated.
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Profile Status: Your Facebook profile might have some restrictions or settings that prevent access.
If you think you meet all criteria but still don’t see Dating, try logging out and back in or reinstalling the Facebook app.
Facebook Dating Features to Know About
Once you have access, here are some cool features to keep in mind:
Secret Crush
This lets you pick Facebook friends or Instagram followers you like. If they add you as a crush too, you both get notified — perfect for those secret admirers.
Event and Group Matches
You can choose to see matches based on events you’re attending or Facebook groups you’re part of, which helps find people with common interests.
Video Date
Especially useful in the pandemic era, Facebook Dating allows video calls within the app, so you can chat face-to-face before meeting in person.
Safety and Privacy Controls
Facebook Dating doesn’t share your dating activity on your main timeline. You can block and report users easily, and your location and profile details are kept private.
Tips for Using Facebook Dating Successfully
Ready to start swiping? Here are a few tips to maximize your Facebook Dating experience:
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Be Yourself: Use real photos and honest info for better matches.
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Keep It Updated: Regularly update your profile to keep it fresh.
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Use Secret Crush Wisely: If you’re interested in someone you already know, Secret Crush is a great way to test the waters.
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Engage in Groups: Joining Facebook groups related to your hobbies might connect you to potential matches with similar interests.
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Stay Safe: Don’t share personal info too quickly, and always meet in public places for first dates.
FAQs About Facebook Dating
Q: Is Facebook Dating free?
A: Yes, it’s completely free to use. No subscriptions or premium plans.
Q: Will my Facebook friends see my dating profile?
A: No, Facebook Dating is separate. Your friends won’t see your dating activity unless you choose to share.
Q: Can I use Facebook Dating on desktop?
A: Currently, Facebook Dating is only available through the mobile app.
Q: How do I delete my Facebook Dating profile?
A: Go to the Dating section, tap Settings, and you can delete your dating profile without deleting your Facebook account.
Wrapping It Up
Getting the Facebook Dating app on your phone is easy because there’s no separate app — it’s built right into Facebook. All you need is the latest Facebook app, then set up your dating profile and start meeting new people. It’s a safe, convenient way to dive into online dating without juggling multiple apps or complicated setups.
So, if you’re ready to find your next date or just explore the dating scene in a low-key way, open up Facebook, tap that heart icon, and see what the world of Facebook Dating has in store for you!
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