Researcher touts merits of 'mobile dating'

EVANSTON, Ill., Feb. 6 (UPI) -- A researcher at Northwestern University in Illinois said he found "mobile dating," which is based in smartphone apps, can be a successful way to meet a partner.

Eli Finkel, associate professor of psychology at Northwestern and lead author of the study, said online dating largely relies on ineffective algorithms and profiles for matchmaking whereas mobile dating allows users to quickly arrange face-to-face meetings to determine their compatibility.

"GPS features on smartphone apps can tell you who is nearby and willing to be browsed," Finkel said. "With a little bit of basic information, potential daters can get together right away for a quick face-to-face meet-up."

Finkel said his research suggests meeting face-to-face as early as possible is important to the success of a relationship and the mobile dating is an effective way to quickly meet someone new.

"You have a little bit of basic information," Finkel said. "Is this person below threshold or above threshold for a five-minute meet-up -- five minutes from now? There's no better way to figure out whether you're compatible with somebody than talking to them over a cup of coffee or a pint of beer."