Why Endless Swiping Frustrates Charlotte Singles – A New Approach is Needed
Rivet, a Charlotte-based dating app co-founded by Taru Kapoor and Rajat Sahni, aims to address frustrations among local singles by shifting matchmaking responsibility from users to their social networks, according to Axios. The app’s model allows friends and even strangers to act as “matchmakers” by suggesting potential partners, a departure from traditional swiping mechanisms.
The app’s approach emerged from observations by Kapoor and Sahni that many Charlotte residents found conventional dating apps inefficient. “There’s a lot of friction in the process,” Kapoor told Axios, citing endless scrolling and superficial interactions as key issues. Rivet’s founders, who previously worked in tech and venture capital, designed the platform to leverage personal connections, arguing that trusted recommendations could lead to more meaningful matches.
How Does Rivet Differ From Traditional Dating Apps?
Unlike apps such as Tinder or Bumble, which rely on user-driven profiles and swiping, Rivet requires users to invite friends or acquaintances to submit match suggestions. These “matchmakers” can submit up to five profiles per month, with the app using algorithms to prioritize suggestions based on shared interests and compatibility data. Users then receive curated lists of potential partners, with the option to message or meet through the app.
According to Axios, the app’s beta phase, launched in April 2026, has attracted over 1,200 users in Charlotte. Early adopters reported mixed reactions. “It feels less transactional,” said Maya Lin, a 28-year-old marketing professional who signed up in May. “But I’m not sure if my friends will take it seriously.”
What Challenges Does the App Face?
Rivet’s model raises questions about privacy and social dynamics. The app’s terms of service state that matchmakers must obtain consent from the person being suggested, but users have expressed concerns about potential awkwardness. “If my friend suggests someone I’m not interested in, it could create tension,” said James Carter, a 34-year-old software engineer.
The app also faces competition from established platforms. A 2025 survey by the Pew Research Center found that 62% of U.S. adults who use dating apps prefer swiping-based models, citing convenience. Rivet’s founders acknowledge the challenge but argue that their approach addresses a gap in the market. “We’re not trying to replace existing apps,” Sahni said. “We’re offering an alternative for people who want more intentional connections.”
Why It Matters for Charlotte’s Dating Scene
The app’s launch coincides with broader trends in digital matchmaking. A 2026 report by the National Center for Health Statistics noted a 15% increase in dating app usage among adults aged 25–34 in the Southeast, including Charlotte. Local relationship experts suggest Rivet’s focus on social networks could resonate with users seeking deeper engagement.
Dr. Elena Torres, a psychologist at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, explained that third-party recommendations can reduce the pressure of self-presentation. “When someone you trust suggests a match, it lowers the barrier to initiating a conversation,” she said. However, she cautioned that the app’s success depends on user adoption and cultural acceptance.
What’s Next for Rivet?
The founders plan to expand the app to Raleigh-Durham in 2027, pending user feedback. They also intend to introduce features allowing users to rate the accuracy of matchmaker suggestions, a move aimed at improving the algorithm.
Rivet’s model reflects a growing experimentation in the dating app industry, where companies are testing alternatives to swiping. While the app’s long-term viability remains uncertain, its launch highlights ongoing efforts to redefine digital intimacy in an increasingly connected world.