How Can I Switch On the Facebook Dating Feature?

 

 Let’s be honest—online dating can be a total maze. Between creating profiles, dodging weird messages, and finding someone who actually wants a relationship (not just a gym buddy or a pen pal), it's exhausting. That’s probably why more people are turning to Facebook Dating. Yup, that’s right—Facebook isn’t just for stalking your ex or scrolling through endless baby photos anymore. It’s stepping into the love game.

But here’s the catch: most folks don’t even realize Facebook has a dating feature, let alone how to turn it on. So, if you’ve been scratching your head wondering, “How can I switch on the Facebook Dating feature?” — you’ve landed in the right place.

Let’s walk you through it, step-by-step, and get you on your way to meeting someone special (or at least enjoying a few fun conversations!).

What Is Facebook Dating?

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s cover the “what.”

Facebook Dating is a built-in feature within the Facebook mobile app (not a separate app!) that helps users find romantic connections based on their preferences, interests, and activity on the platform. Think of it like Tinder but built into your existing Facebook account—and without the swipe game.

And don’t worry—it’s not like your aunt Cheryl or your boss is going to see your dating profile. Facebook Dating keeps everything separate from your main Facebook activity.

Key Features of Facebook Dating:

• Secret Crush List: Like someone you’re already friends with? Add them to your Secret Crush list. If they do the same—boom! Match.

• Events & Groups: Meet people who like the same stuff you do. Attend the same events or are in similar groups? Facebook Dating connects those dots.

• No Swipe System: Instead of swiping, you can like specific parts of someone’s profile and leave a comment, which helps break the ice.

Requirements to Use Facebook Dating

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Before you can switch on the feature, there are a few basic requirements you need to meet:

• You must be 18 years or older. Facebook Dating is strictly for adults.

• You must use the Facebook mobile app. Dating is not available on desktop.

• The feature must be available in your country. As of now, Facebook Dating is available in over 50 countries including the US, Canada, UK, India, Philippines, and many others.

• You need the latest version of the Facebook app. Outdated versions won’t support the Dating feature.

Got all that covered? Great—let’s get started!

Step-by-Step: How to Switch On Facebook Dating

Step 1: Open the Facebook App

First things first—grab your phone and open up the Facebook app. You can’t use Facebook Dating on the desktop version or Facebook Lite.

Step 2: Go to the Menu

Look for the hamburger icon (three horizontal lines) usually located at the bottom right (iOS) or top right (Android). Tap it to open the menu.

Step 3: Scroll Down and Tap “Dating”

Now scroll until you see “Dating.” If it’s available in your region and you meet the requirements, it should be there. Tap on it to get started.

Pro Tip: If you don’t see “Dating,” try updating your app first. If it’s still not there, Facebook Dating might not be available in your country or on your account yet.

Step 4: Set Up Your Dating Profile

Here’s the fun part—setting up your profile. Don’t worry, it’s separate from your main Facebook profile.

You’ll be asked to:

• Choose your gender and the gender(s) you’re interested in

• Upload photos (Facebook may suggest some)

• Answer profile prompts like hobbies, job title, education, height, religion, and more

• Customize your dating preferences (distance, age range, etc.)

Take your time with this. The more info you give, the better matches Facebook can suggest.

Step 5: Enable Location Services

Facebook Dating uses your location to find people nearby. Make sure your location services are turned on for the Facebook app.

Go to your phone’s settings → Apps → Facebook → Permissions → Location → Allow.

Without it, Facebook Dating just won’t work right.

Step 6: Start Browsing Matches

Once your profile is set up, Facebook will show you potential matches based on your preferences, shared interests, mutual friends (but not Facebook friends unless you both Secret Crush each other), and location.

If you’re interested in someone, you can:

• Like their profile

• Comment on a specific part of it (like a photo or prompt)

If they like you back—congrats, it’s a match! You can start messaging each other directly within the Dating section.

Common Problems & Fixes

Okay, so maybe things didn’t go as smoothly as planned. Don’t panic. Here are a few common issues people run into—and how to fix them:

“I Don’t See the Dating Option”

• Update your Facebook app.

• Check your age and profile info. You must be 18+.

• Make sure it’s available in your country.

• Try logging out and back in.

“Facebook Dating Keeps Crashing”

• Close and reopen the app.

• Clear the Facebook app cache.

• Update to the latest version.

• Restart your phone.

“No Matches Showing Up”

• Expand your distance or age preferences.

• Add more details to your profile.

• Like more profiles—activity helps Facebook refine your matches.

Tips to Make the Most of Facebook Dating

Now that you're set up, let’s boost your chances of making a real connection.

1. Be Authentic

Don’t fake it—just be yourself. Use real photos (no heavy filters), write honestly, and showcase your personality.

2. Use the Prompts

Prompts like “My ideal weekend is…” or “A fun fact about me…” help break the ice and show your human side.

3. Check the Groups & Events Features

See someone who’s also RSVPing to that art festival? Message them about it. It’s an instant conversation starter.

4. Try the Secret Crush Feature

Got a low-key crush on someone from your friend list? Add them to your secret crush list. If they do the same—Facebook will let both of you know.

5. Stay Safe

Never share personal info (like your address or financial details) early on. Meet in public places for first dates, and trust your gut.

What Happens If You Delete or Disable Facebook Dating?

• Don’t worry—you can always change your mind.

• Deleting the Dating profile doesn’t affect your main Facebook account.

• Disabling notifications is easy via your settings if you want to take a break.

• You can always rejoin later by setting up a new profile from scratch.

What Makes Facebook Dating Different?

Let’s wrap this up with what sets Facebook Dating apart from the usual suspects like Tinder, Bumble, or Hinge.

• No swiping: The focus is on quality, not quantity.

• Integrated into Facebook: No need for another app or account.

• Secret Crush: A fun twist if you already have someone in mind.

• Events & Groups Matching: Meet people with real shared interests.

• No Ads or Premium Tier (yet): Completely free, for now!

CONCLUSION

So, how can you switch on the Facebook Dating feature? Turns out, it’s pretty simple—just open the app, find “Dating” in the menu, and follow the prompts. You’ll be up and running in just a few minutes.

But here’s the real question—should you?

If you’re tired of the same old dating apps, Facebook Dating offers a more thoughtful, interest-based approach. It’s not perfect, but it’s private, easy to use, and built into a platform you probably already use daily. Whether you’re looking for love, a meaningful connection, or just some interesting convos, it’s worth checking out.

Who knows? Your next great love story might start on the same app where you post dog memes and argue about pineapple on pizza. 🥴