Match Group Announces Leadership Change at Hinge and Launch of Overtone, Its New AI-Driven Venture

Leadership Transition at Hinge and the Birth of Overtone

In a significant development, Match Group (NASDAQ: MTCH) announced that Justin McLeod, the founder and CEO of Hinge, will be stepping down from his role to launch a new venture called Overtone. This transition represents a pivotal moment for both Hinge and Match Group, as the latter continues to focus on innovative strategies in the dating app market.

Overtone: A New AI-Driven Approach to Dating

Overtone is set to operate independently while being backed by Match Group, which demonstrates a commitment to innovative solutions in the dating sphere. The new service aims to utilize artificial intelligence and voice tools to foster meaningful connections between users, offering a unique approach to matchmaking that reflects today’s social needs.

The inception of Overtone originated within Hinge itself. During 2025, McLeod and his team at Hinge dedicated substantial resources to envision and formulate this concept. Recognizing the potential of AI in enhancing interpersonal connections, Match Group provided both financial support and expertise to ensure Overtone’s development was expedited.

According to statements made by Spencer Rascoff, the CEO of Match Group, Overtone will appeal to a growing audience seeking a more thoughtful and personal dating experience. Match Group plans to lead Overtone's initial funding round in 2026, ensuring that the venture begins with a solid financial foundation.

New Leadership at Hinge

As McLeod prepares to embark on this new journey, Jackie Jantos, who served as Hinge's President and Chief Marketing Officer, has been promoted to CEO. Jantos brings four years of leadership experience that will be crucial for navigating Hinge’s next phase of growth. Under her previous leadership, Hinge expanded its footprint into Europe and Latin America while continuously innovating based on user insights.

In her new role, Jantos will focus on retaining Hinge’s mission of helping people forge fulfilling in-person relationships, especially as it resonates more strongly in today's digital age. "The quest for meaningful connections has never been more crucial, and I look forward to spearheading this journey," she commented.

Looking Ahead for Hinge and Overtone

Both Hinge and Overtone are primed for success, with dedicated leadership and a clear vision. Hinge continues to experience robust growth, on track to reach $1 billion in revenue by 2027, a testament to the groundwork laid by McLeod and his team.

The move aligns with Match Group's strategic intent to enhance its offerings through focused innovation that deepens human connections. This transition is seen as part of the broader objective of building platforms that ethically and responsibly help people find relationships.

McLeod, who founded Hinge in 2011, emphasized his pride in the company's journey thus far and expressed gratitude for Match Group's sustained support. He envisions Overtone as a natural extension of Hinge's ethos, designed to create a community where people can build significant and lasting relationships.

In summary, the leadership changes at Hinge, along with the establishment of Overtone, highlight Match Group's ongoing commitment to revolutionizing the dating landscape through innovative, responsible technology. This strategy is set to shape the future of how people connect, making it an exciting time for users and stakeholders alike.