Crack the Happn Algorithm: Expert Tips to Get More Matches (2024 Edition)

Are you wondering whether you should go out every Saturday night in search of your soulmate or try your luck on popular dating platforms? Here are some statistics to help you make an informed decision.

Despite the significant changes in socializing over the past couple of years, dating apps continue to thrive. User intelligence data reveals that global usage of popular apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge grew by 17% in January 2024 compared to 2019. Furthermore, in the U.S. alone, 39% of couples in 2019 reported meeting each other online.

The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the adoption of online dating and virtual interactions. Many people turned to online dating to meet and connect with potential partners while social distancing measures were in place. As a result, the number of dating app users grew to 366 million in 2024.

According to a 2020 report by eMarketer, the global dating app market is expected to exceed $8.4 billion by 2024; as more 18-29 year-olds join the dating world.

Online daters claim that it is "somewhat easy" to find compatible partners on these apps. So, whether you prefer going out or staying in, dating apps can offer a convenient and effective way to meet new people and find a potential partner.

Happn is a user-friendly mobile dating app available on both the App Store and Google Play Store. The app was first launched in France in 2014 and co-founded by Didier Rappaport, Fabien Cohen, and Antony Cohen.

Happn is a location-based dating app that uses its users' location to suggest potential matches. It allows its users to like people’s profiles with whom they crossed paths in daily life.

The algorithm doesn't match Happn users with someone based on common interests, mutual friends, etc. rather, Happn works to detect recent locations to help users match and chat with people they pass within a 250m radius.

According to the Happn’s head, Eugénie Legendre, the Happn app offers a more authentic dating experience than other apps like Tinder. While Tinder can often feel like a game, Happn is more about getting a second chance at missed connections and less about matching algorithms.

Now that you have understood what's the idea behind this trending app and how its algorithm work, let's go through some practical ways of making your profile a super hit on the app.

Tip #1: Add relevant information

If you're using Happn, the key to a successful profile is to provide relevant descriptive information. This dating app uses your profile to match you with other like-minded individuals, so it's important to convey things that will help you find a perfect partner.

Include various super-expressive photos that showcase your personality and interests, and try to avoid blurry or poorly-lit images. The goal is to grab the attention of potential matches, so make sure your pictures bring something to the table.

For your bio, less is more. But make sure to highlight your strengths. Don't be afraid to show off your sense of humor, intelligence, or other attractive qualities.

Tip #2: Utilize the App’s features

Happn offers a variety of tools and functions that can help you find and connect with potential matches. Happn lets you like or dislike other users' profiles. It's important to remember that the more you like and dislike profiles, the more likely you are to be matched with someone who shares your interests.

Sending charms is another fun way to let others know you are interested. So seize the opportunities such features bring to express your heart in front of your preferred members.

Tip #3: Make the first move

Many women expect a man to make the first move, but this is 2024, and women are empowered to make the first move. The same is the case for men; even if you are a shy person, on a dating app, you have little loss, so make the most of the opportunities.

However, if you like someone, make the first move whether you are a man or a woman. If you wait around for someone worthy to make the first move, you might end up waiting for eternity.

Tip #4: Travel often

Not getting much matches? Instead of worrying; start traveling. Since it's a dating app that matches you with people you have literally crossed paths with means you need to explore new places to get a chance to match with new people. The space you will travel to can serve as an ice-breaker for you.

You can try something like “Have you tried that new bar on Houston Street?", “Want to try it with me sometime?" Or, "What do you think of that coffee shop on Fulton? I was there today, and I saw you were nearby. Have you been?" It is a great way to start a conversation and possibly plan your first date.

Tip #5: Use the Premium Subscriptions

Whether you like it or not, just like all the other dating apps, Happn also prioritizes its paid subscribers. In-app purchases are generally welcomed and favored by the algorithm!

The Happn Premium subscription offers several additional perks. Premium Membership gives you access to the list of people who’ve Liked your profile, allowing you to connect with them easily. Invisibility mode lets you schedule times when you don't want to be seen on the app, "Mystery" feature hides your key personal information from others.

With a premium subscription, you also get 10 Flash Notes daily to help you initiate conversations with people you're interested in. But we suggest not using the premium subscriptions until you create a solid profile.

Tip #6: Use the best profile pics

With your profile pics, you neither have to go too crazy or wild nor need to look too basic or boring. It would be best if you created a perfect balance between the two.

And remember, selfies are a clear no-no for a dating profile. Try to show some personality in your profile pics; for instance, you can go for action shots that capture you in your natural element.

Use good lighting, take full-body shots, and don't cover your face with sunglasses. Plus, at least upload three different pics on your Happn account.

Tip #7: Connect your Happn account with Instagram

Happn users can create a lasting impression by connecting their Happn account with their Instagram. Skipping this step can means losing potentially important connections. How does this work?

Well, thirty recent pictures from your Instagram feed appear in your profile, giving the other users a great insight into who you really are, your interests, likes, hobbies, etc. It is a perfect way to convey things you might not be able to do through a basic Happn profile.