More replies, fewer ghosts: Introducing a new way to like on CMB

Ever matched with someone amazing only to see it fizzle out — or worse, never even make it to the chat at all? You’re not alone. Ghosting, awkward small talk, and “What do I even say?” moments are some of the hardest parts of online dating.

That’s why we’ve decided to shake things up a bit. Now, your first moves are easier, more intentional, and more likely to spark real connections.

Likes reimagined for better matching

Instead of liking an entire profile, you can now like a specific photo or prompt — or basically, the exact profile detail that turned you into a real-life heart-eye emoji.*

It’s a simple shift, but one that gives likes a bit more meaning and helps conversations flow naturally from the start.

And here’s the thing: timing matters. Our data shows that chats started within three hours of matching are 52% more likely to get a response. When your like is about something particular on your profile or includes a thoughtful message, that first exchange happens faster and feels more genuine, giving you a better chance to really get to know someone new.

So, how does this new setup work?

Suggested

Previously, you had three options at the bottom of a suggested profile: Like, like with flowers, or pass. Now, you can like a photo or a prompt instead of liking the entire profile.

See a smile that makes your heart race, or a prompt that makes you want to know more? Tap the heart button. From there, you’ll see a new screen that gives you a few options: Add a message to your like to kickstart a conversation; send your like with flowers to stand out from the crowd; send flowers and a message; or you can just send the like as is. (Our suggestion? Add a little something extra 😉)

Likes You

You’ll still decide whether you want to like someone back to match, or pass. But now, you’ll see a little more context, like whether they sent a reply or flowers with their like. Ready to match? Tap the heart, and you’ll have the option to add your own message, too. That way, there’s no awkward “who’s going to message first?” dance — your conversation is already rolling!

Discover

This is where you’ll find daters outside of our suggestions, and you always send flowers instead of regular likes. But now, you have the option to add a message with your flowers, too! Just tap the flower button and add something cute, witty, or heartfelt — the choice is yours.

More meaningful connections, one like at a time

At Coffee Meets Bagel, we’ve never been about the swiping life. Which is why we decided it was about time to make your first move feel more intentional, more human, and less like you’re just going through the motions.

So, next time you see a profile that makes you pause, tap what actually caught your eye, and reach out in a way that actually means something. Because serious relationships aren’t built on heys — they’re built on the reason you wanted to say hey in the first place.

*Note: This new feature is currently only available on the Worldwide version of CMB.