The FB app has a Dating feature, enabling users to connect and meet possible love partners.
It is simple to begin using this feature if you are interested. This article will guide you through activation and explain how it functions.
How to activate Facebook dating
It can be easier with the app. However, it is still possible with the web version. We will not advise trying out with a third-party application. For the most experience, follow the steps below to activate the dating feature:
- Open the main FB application and
- Go straight to the menu section to open the heart icon
- If you cannot find it, update your application or confirm if it is available in your locality. Still, your age can be the issue. So, confirm all the requirements to know.
- Simply follow the instructions to create yours. This requires publishing a few photos.
- To view your texts and matches, click the heart icon and begin to use it.
How do I create a Facebook Dating profile?
- Open the main application and find the feature from the menu section
- You can find it as a heart or love icon, press and continue
- Verify our location and enter all the required details
- After entering these details, move to the next thing.
- Set up your photo and write a brief bio describing yourself
After completing the setup, you can use the relationship feature to communicate with other individuals. You can do this by texting people directly through the app or swiping on profiles that grab your attention.
How to activate facebook dating on iPhone
Once the FB app is launched, tap the three horizontal lines in the bottom right corner.
Go to the menu and choose the love icon.
If you don’t see the item listed on the menu, it will likely be available in your region. Additionally, verify if your smartphone’s app or operating system needs to be updated.
As you create yours, adhere to the guidelines for writing a brief bio and uploading photographs.
After creating, you can start communicating and matching with other users using the live feature.
Is Deleting a Facebook Dating Profile the Same as Deactivating It?
To delete your profile, go to your account settings and select “the heart icon” from the left-hand menu. After that, you can choose whether to delete it. None of your details will remain, and that means if you are interested again, you will need to make a new setup.
When you deactivate it, your data will not be entirely erased from the site, but it will no longer be visible to other users when they utilize the FB love feature. In this case, it is temporary, meaning you can still return and restore your profile anytime.
If you wish to delete your relationship profile and all of your data, go to the “love icon” settings and choose “Delete.”
Your data will be permanently deleted from the website. You should be aware that all associated data is deleted once you remove it.
How to reactivate a Facebook dating profile
- After logging into the main app.
- Search for the feature in the menu so you can reactivate it
- Press the “heart icon” after locating it in the list
- Checkout for the settings option
- Search through, and press reactivate or unpause
You can use it once more when it has been revived. Remember that deactivating and then reactivating it does not immediately bring back any matches or discussions you had. To meet new individuals, you must use the site from scratch.
How can I tell if someone is on Facebook Dating?
You may check your profile and look for someone’s name in your list of matches to see if they are available. When someone’s name shows in your list of matches, it signifies that they are using Facebook Dating and have expressed interest in meeting you.
Alternatively, try typing their name into the search field. They are probably on the site if their name appears in the search results.
Do not forget that FB Dating is a different feature from the main application and is only accessible to individuals who have created a profile for it and are 18 years of age or older. It’s possible they are not using it or hiding it from the search if you do not see their name in your list of matches or the search results.
What If Facebook Dating Isn’t Showing Up?
Sometimes, users can’t find the Dating feature in their Facebook app. Don’t panic — here are the main reasons and how to fix them.
1. Facebook Dating Isn’t Available in Your Country
If it’s not supported where you live, the option simply won’t appear. You can check Facebook’s official list of Dating countries or wait until it launches in your area.
2. Your App Is Outdated
Outdated apps often lack newer features. Update Facebook through the Play Store or App Store, then restart your phone.
3. You’re Using Facebook Lite
Facebook Lite doesn’t support Dating. You’ll need to download and use the main Facebook app.
4. Your Age Is Under 18
Facebook requires users to be at least 18 years old to use the Dating feature. If your birthdate on your profile says otherwise, the option won’t show up.
5. You Have Restricted Access
If Facebook has restricted your account for any reason, certain features like Dating may be temporarily disabled.
6. Cache or App Glitches
Sometimes, clearing cache or reinstalling the app can fix missing features.
To clear cache on Android:
- Go to Settings → Apps → Facebook → Storage → Clear Cache.
On iPhone:
- Simply delete and reinstall the app to reset it.
How to Set Up Your Facebook Dating Profile (The Right Way)
Once you’ve activated Facebook Dating, your next move is creating an eye-catching profile.
Here’s how to make yours stand out:
1. Choose High-Quality Photos
Avoid blurry selfies or group shots where it’s hard to tell who you are. Go for bright, natural photos where you look approachable and authentic.
2. Write a Short, Honest Bio
Keep it real. Mention what you’re into, your vibe, and what you’re looking for — without sounding like a résumé.
Example:
“Dog lover, coffee addict, and weekend hiker. Looking for someone who can match my sarcasm and appetite for tacos.”
3. Add Interests and Prompts
Facebook offers question prompts like “My ideal weekend looks like…” or “The first thing people notice about me is…” Answering these helps break the ice.
4. Adjust Your Preferences
Set filters like age range, distance, height, and religion (optional). This helps narrow down the matches you actually want to see.
5. Enable Location Services
Facebook Dating uses your location to show local matches. Without it, you might not see anyone nearby.
Using Facebook Dating Features
Now that you’re set up, let’s explore what makes Facebook Dating unique:
1. Secret Crush
You can select up to nine Facebook friends or Instagram followers as Secret Crushes. If they also choose you, you’ll both be notified — otherwise, no one will know.
2. Events and Groups
You can match with people who attend the same Facebook events or are in the same groups. Perfect for connecting over shared interests.
3. Stories
Add Instagram or Facebook Stories to your dating profile to show more of your day-to-day personality.
4. Safety Features
Facebook lets you share your date plans with a trusted friend through Messenger, including location and time — a thoughtful safety touch.
5. No Swipe Fatigue
Unlike Tinder or Bumble, you don’t endlessly swipe. You take your time, view profiles, and engage in genuine conversations.
How to Chat on Facebook Dating
Once there’s a mutual like, you can start chatting directly within the Dating section — not Messenger. This keeps your dating life separate from your regular Facebook chats.
If things go well, you can later move the conversation to Messenger or even exchange numbers.
Keep your first message fun and genuine. Avoid the “Hey” or “What’s up?” openers. Try something like:
“Hey, I saw you love hiking — any favorite spots around here?”
Simple, personal, and easy to reply to.
Privacy and Security on Facebook Dating
One of the top concerns for users is privacy. The good news is that Facebook Dating is designed to keep your dating life separate from your main profile.
Here’s how your information is protected:
- Your Facebook friends won’t see your dating profile.
- Your activity in Dating doesn’t appear on your main Facebook timeline.
- You control what details to share (like job, education, etc.).
- You can block or report anyone who makes you uncomfortable.
- You can also pause or delete your Dating profile at any time without affecting your main Facebook account.
Common Facebook Dating Problems and Fixes
Here are some common hiccups users run into — and how to solve them.
Problem Fix
Dating not showing Update app, switch to main Facebook app, check eligibility
Can’t upload photos Clear cache or reinstall app
Matches not loading Check internet connection, restart app
Can’t send messages Ensure mutual match, check if user blocked you
Location not updating Turn on GPS and allow location permissions
Tips to Make the Most of Facebook Dating
Now that you know how to activate and use it, here are some bonus tips to help you actually succeed:
- Be Yourself: Authenticity attracts better matches. Don’t fake interests or hide who you are.
- Stay Active: Check in regularly — the algorithm rewards active users with better visibility.
- Engage with Prompts: Prompts help spark conversations and show off your personality.
- Use Secret Crush Wisely: Don’t add everyone you find attractive. Choose thoughtfully.
- Stay Safe: Always meet in public places and tell a friend about your plans.
If you’re already using Facebook daily, its dating feature feels more natural — no need to juggle multiple apps or accounts.
Safety Reminder Before Meeting Matches
Online dating can be fun, but safety always comes first. Keep these guidelines in mind:
- Never share personal details (like your home address) too soon.
- Meet in public for your first few dates.
- Let a friend know where you’re going.
- Trust your gut — if something feels off, end the conversation or block the person.
Facebook even lets you share your live location with a trusted contact through Messenger for extra safety.
Conclusion
Activating Facebook Dating on Android or iPhone is simple — update your app, find the Dating section, and set up your profile. Once it’s ready, you can meet people nearby who share your interests, all without leaving Facebook.
It’s free, private, and easy to use — whether you’re looking for something serious or just seeing what’s out there.
If you’ve been hesitant to try online dating, Facebook Dating might be the perfect place to start.
So, go ahead — update your app, set up your profile, and start exploring. Love might be just a few taps away.