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Justin McLeod, CEO of dating app Hinge, has issued a strong warning against the increasing use of AI dating chatbots. In a recent interview, McLeod cautioned that relying on AI for companionship risks exacerbating loneliness and hindering the development of genuine human relationships. He likened the trend to “playing with fire” and compared it to the empty calories of junk food. McLeod emphasized Hinge’s dedication to fostering authentic connections, distinguishing it from social media platforms focused on maximizing user engagement. While Hinge utilizes AI to improve matching algorithms and offer users personalized coaching to enhance their profiles and date experiences, McLeod stresses the app’s core mission is to facilitate real-world interactions. The CEO also discussed Hinge’s approach to data privacy, its position within the Match Group, and strategies for mobile payment systems. The full interview can be found on The Verge’s Decoder podcast.