From strangers to lovers: How this startup is simulating the 'meet-cute' with AI
Business Insider
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A startup called 222 is leveraging AI to bring back the spontaneity of serendipitous connections in real-life settings. Unlike traditional dating apps that rely on swiping and matching, 222 focuses on creating opportunities for people to meet strangers in person, such as through dinners or social events, using personality quizzes and machine learning to predict compatible matches. Founded by Keyan Kazemian, Arman Roshannai, and Danial Hashemi, the startup aims to recreate organic, natural interactions that often lead to friendships or romantic relationships.
The platform has evolved since its launch in 2021 as a dinner series for young adults post-COVID. It now offers features like follow-up plans for friends or dates based on user feedback. After initial meetings, users can request hangouts or dates, and the app handles the logistics, such as reservations. This approach mirrors how people might have met before dating apps, emphasizing in-person connections without preconceived expectations.
222’s AI relies on labeled data from user interactions to improve match quality over time. Subscribers pay $22 monthly for access to these experiences, with the app encouraging users to try multiple events to refine their matches. The startup has raised millions, including a recent $10.1 million funding round, to expand its tech and team. This focus on building and maintaining relationships beyond the initial meeting sets 222 apart from competitors.
The broader trend of AI in dating is gaining traction, with startups and established apps like Tinder exploring similar concepts. However, 222’s unique approach lies in fostering real-world interactions rather than virtual ones. By focusing on both creating and nurturing connections, 222 taps into the growing desire for meaningful, organic relationships that go beyond swiping. This innovative use of AI could redefine how people build friendships and romantic partnerships in the digital age, offering a fresh alternative to traditional dating apps.
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/23/2026