Not getting matches on Tinder? Here's Facebook's new dating feature at your rescue

The social media giant Facebook on Friday launched its much-awaited dating services which was announced by the company earlier this year.

The new feature allows users to create a separate ‘dating’ profile which is not visible to their network of friends. (Image: AFP)

The social media giant Facebook on Friday launched its much-awaited dating services which was announced by the company earlier this year. The trail version of the dating services has been launched in Colombia and will soon be expanded to other countries. It is been said Facebook chose the Latin American country to test the response of its dating services as Colombians love to use social media platforms and websites to find partners. The dating services were tested within the company – by its employees – before launching in Colombia. With its new services, Facebook is making an attempt to get into the dating app services ecosystem and will eventually take on major players including Tinder, OkCupid and Hinge etc. Only users above the age of 18 are allowed to create their profile and use Facebook dating services in Colombia. Facebook has an advantage as users will not have to download an addition app in their phones to use the dating services. Company believes that this is an incredible opportunity to continue helping people in building meaningful relationships. How does Facebook Dating feature works The new feature allows users (above 18 years) to create a separate ‘dating’ profile which is not visible to their network of friends. Once the profile is create, Facebook recommends them potential matches based on their preferences, likes and common interest. The services has a set algorithm which prevents recommendation of people who are already connected in your Facebook profile as friends or family members. Users can also block people if they wish. Once both the users like each other, a separate chats option will pop up and the services also does not allow strangers to share pictures, videos etc. Facebook will ask you to verify your location using your device and provide additional details such as a free-form bio, occupation, education, religion, and height. Also, it lets you choose non-binary genders and sexual orientations. Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg announced his plans for the new dating feature at the developer conference F8 which held earlier this year.