For Immediate Release
Gettit Replaces the Swipe With 'Sparks' — A Mutual Match System Built for Genuine Connection
April 3, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW YORK, NY — APRIL 2026
Gettit, the privacy-first dating app launching in New York City this spring, today introduced Sparks — its mutual matching system that fundamentally reimagines how connections are made on dating apps.
Where Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge rely on left/right swipe mechanics that prioritize volume over intent, Gettit’s Sparks system is designed to surface genuine mutual interest — not algorithmic compatibility scores or gamified engagement loops.
How Sparks Work
A Spark is a deliberate expression of interest. When browsing the proximity grid, users tap the Spark button on a profile they’re genuinely interested in. If the other person Sparks back, both receive a MatchModal celebration — a full-screen animation that confirms the mutual connection and immediately opens the conversation.
The SparkInboxScreen gives users a dedicated view of all received Sparks, with the ability to Spark Back or send a message directly. Sparks that haven’t been acknowledged are surfaced prominently, giving users agency over their connections rather than burying them in an algorithmic feed.
“Swiping was designed to be addictive — not to help people connect. We looked at the research on swipe fatigue and the mental health data on dating app anxiety, and we built Sparks to feel like tapping someone on the shoulder, not pulling a slot machine lever.” — Jax Sterling, CEO & Co-Founder, Gettit
No Algorithmic Feed — Grid-First Discovery
Unlike Tinder’s Elo-based ranking, Hinge’s “Most Compatible” algorithm, or Bumble’s proprietary behavioral scoring, Gettit’s grid sorts profiles by proximity — who’s physically nearby, right now. There’s no shadow-banning, no paid profile boosts that push others down, no invisible scoring that determines who sees you.
This connects directly to Gettit’s stance on algorithmic manipulation: the grid is transparent. You see who’s near you. Full stop.
What the Research Says About Swipe Mechanics
Multiple peer-reviewed studies have found that swipe-based apps:
- Correlate with lower self-esteem and body image satisfaction (particularly for men)
- Create compulsive checking behavior consistent with intermittent variable reward schedules
- Produce high match rates but low conversation initiation rates (most matches never exchange a single message)
- Contribute to “swipe fatigue” — the sense that quantity of options creates decision paralysis rather than better choices
Sparks addresses this by making each expression of interest deliberate. You’re not quickly sorting a stack of cards — you’re choosing to signal interest in a specific person.
Sparks vs. Swipes: The Key Differences
| Feature | Sparks (Gettit) | Swipes (Tinder/Bumble) |
|---|---|---|
| Interaction design | Intentional tap | Gamified flick gesture |
| Match notification | Full-screen celebration | Banner notification |
| Unacknowledged interest | Visible inbox | Hidden unless you pay |
| Algorithmic ranking | None (proximity only) | Elo / engagement score |
| Mutual requirement | Yes | Yes |
Integration with Who’s Out Tonight
When a user has Who’s Out Tonight active, their Spark interactions carry additional context — both parties know the other is present and available, not just browsing. This creates a natural momentum toward actual plans rather than open-ended messaging.
About Gettit
Gettit is an inclusive dating and social networking platform built for everyone. Available on iOS and Android. Sign Up Now and get 6 months of Plus free.
Media Contact Gettit Communications press@gettit.app www.gettit.app