News · 13 August 2026
Bumble now lets men message first, ending its signature women-first rule

Dating app Bumble has altered its main regulation, which had previously stipulated that only women were able to initiate contact with a match. The change follows a trial that demonstrated increased engagement, and a survey revealed 66% of women would rather men made initial contact. The time limit to start a chat after matching has also been extended from 24 hours to three days.
Reported by BBC · How we write briefs
