If you’ve been browsing through Tinder, you may have come across a gold-colored diamond icon on some profile pictures. You might have also noticed the diamond icon at the top of your Tinder browsing screen. But what does it all mean? Well, those icons are part of Tinder’s “Top Picks” program. In this article, we’ll dive deep into how Top Picks works and how you can make the most out of this feature.
The Evolution of Top Picks
The Top Picks feature was introduced by Tinder in the summer of 2018, initially exclusively available to Tinder Gold subscribers. It was first tested in select countries such as the UK, Germany, Brazil, France, Canada, Turkey, Mexico, Sweden, Russia, and the Netherlands. After a successful trial period, Tinder decided to roll out the feature to users in the United States and worldwide.
Unveiling Tinder Top Picks
So, what exactly is Tinder Top Picks and how can it benefit you? Top Picks is a premium service offered by Tinder that helps you discover potential matches that align with your preferences. Every day, Tinder’s algorithm analyzes the profiles in your area and selects between 1 and 10 individuals who are deemed highly compatible with your profile. These selected profiles are then showcased in a 2×2 grid format when you tap on the diamond icon at the top of your browsing screen.
When you’re browsing through profiles as usual, if you come across a diamond icon on someone’s profile, it means that person is one of your Top Picks for the day. Previously, only Tinder Gold subscribers had access to these diamond icons, creating an exclusive experience. However, starting in May of 2019, regular Tinder users also gained access to this feature.
How Does the Algorithm Work?
You might be wondering how Tinder’s algorithm determines your Top Picks. Contrary to some speculations, the algorithm doesn’t perform facial analysis or delve into your genetic code. Instead, it primarily relies on the information provided in your bio.
The algorithm scans your bio for specific keywords and assigns labels to you based on those keywords. For example, if your bio includes keywords related to creativity, you might be labeled as “Creative.” The algorithm then searches for other users in your area and age range who share similar labels. This way, Tinder aims to match you with individuals who have common interests or traits.
Additionally, the algorithm takes into consideration your past swipe patterns. It analyzes the profiles you’ve shown interest in and uses that information to understand your preferences. For instance, if you consistently swipe left on profiles of individuals older than 40, the algorithm will take this into account and exclude such profiles from your Top Picks.
The Challenge with Top Picks
While Top Picks can be a useful feature, there are some limitations. The algorithm heavily relies on the information provided in your bio, which can sometimes be limited or unreliable. For example, if you mention your dislike for mountain biking in your bio, the algorithm may mistakenly label you as a “Biker” based on the keyword “bike.” This can lead to inaccurate matches.
Furthermore, some users have reported that they haven’t noticed a clear pattern or indication that the individuals presented as Top Picks would be particularly compatible with them. It’s important to approach Top Picks with an open mind and not solely rely on them for finding matches.
Utilizing Tinder Top Picks
Now that you understand how Top Picks work, let’s explore how you can make the most of this feature. Follow these steps to use Tinder Top Picks:
- Open the Tinder app and navigate to the Discovery screen.
- Look for the diamond icon at the top of the screen and tap on it.
- Explore the profiles presented in the 2×2 grid format.
- Swipe left or right based on your interest in each profile.
- Remember that as a regular user, you only get one swipe per day on your Top Picks. So choose wisely!
- Wait for the Top Picks to refresh daily. If you’re a Tinder Gold subscriber, you have the option to purchase additional picks.
It’s important to note that Top Picks are time-limited. They refresh every 24 hours, so if you come across a profile you’re interested in, make sure to swipe on it promptly. Depending on the size of your user pool, the profile may appear again in your regular rotation, but it could take some time. Tinder encourages users to be proactive and engaged with the app to maximize their experience.
Decoding Other Tinder Icons
In addition to the diamond icon, Tinder utilizes various other icons to convey information while swiping. Let’s take a look at some of these icons and their meanings:
- Purple Lightning Bolt: This icon represents a boost, which is a feature that increases your visibility in your area. Tinder provides one free boost per month to each user.
- Green Heart: When you like a profile, the green heart icon appears to indicate your interest.
- Yellow Heart: If you’re a Tinder Gold subscriber, the yellow heart icon signifies that another user with Tinder Gold has liked your profile.
- Blue Star Icon: The blue star icon denotes a “Super Like.” It’s a way to grab someone’s attention and express a higher level of interest.
- Red ‘X’: When you dislike a profile, the red ‘X’ icon appears, indicating that you’ve chosen not to pursue a match.
Have you had any interesting or memorable experiences using Tinder Top Picks? We’d love to hear your stories and insights! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
Conclusion
Remember, Top Picks can be a helpful tool to streamline your swiping experience and potentially connect with individuals who align with your interests. However, it’s important to approach it with a balanced perspective and not solely rely on it for finding your perfect match. Happy swiping!
