Hinge founder leaves CEO role to launch AI-powered dating startup

Hinge founder Justin McLeod is stepping down as CEO of the dating app to launch an AI-powered dating service.

McLeod will be replaced by Jackie Jantos, president of the dating app and chief marketing officer of parent company Hinge. Match Group It was announced on Tuesday.

“The company’s momentum, including being on track to reach $1 billion in revenue by 2027, gives me complete confidence in where Hinge is headed,” McLeod said in a statement. He created the dating app in 2011.

McLeod will remain an advisor to Hinge until March. His new venture, Overtone, will use artificial intelligence and voice tools to “help people connect in a more thoughtful and personal way.” announcement.

McLeod, along with a dedicated team, has spent much of this year developing the startup with support from Match Group, which said it plans to lead Overtone’s first round of funding in early 2026.

Match Group, which also owns Tinder and various other dating apps, will have a significant ownership position in Overtone. Match Group CEO Spencer Rascoff will join Overtone’s board of directors.

“We are proud to have incubated Overtone within Hinge and now lead the funding round as it builds its next venture,” Rascoff said in a statement.

WRISTWATCH: Intelligent Alpha CEO Doug Clinton says software could start leveraging artificial intelligence in 2026