Tinder Introduces Virtual In-App currency

Online dating application, Tinder has introduced a virtual in-app currency that is designed to help users spend more time on the site and eventually pay real money.

Tinder stated that the “coins” will be a way for the company to monetise non-subscribers by allowing them to make ad-hoc or one-time purchases and users who stay active and up-to-date on the site will be able to acquire coins for free.

Users will also be able to pay real money for them, much as you can with in-app game purchases. The coins can be used to purchase Tinder perks like Super Likes or Boosts that help you find the best possible match.

The application runs on a freemium model that lets you use the app without paying. Even so, users can gain extra features via a subscription (from $10 to $30 per month), like more granular filters, Boosts and the ability to see people who've shown interest in your profile.

Tinder parent Match.com has said that Tinder users have a higher propensity to pay than ever, and was encouraged by small market tests conducted last spring. Tinder CFO Gary Swindler told Bloomberg said: "[The currency] will play an important role as the Tinder experience evolves and becomes more immersive, because virtual currency is useful in the context of gifting digital goods,”