Tinder Introduces More Genders in India

Leading dating app Tinder has announced the launch of its ‘More Genders’ feature in India and will now support more ways to express gender identity.

Since the app’s launch, Indian users have only had two options available when selecting their gender profile: man or woman. Now they will be able to choose from 23 options or type any word that best describes their gender identity through the ”˜Edit Info’ screen. Options include bigender, genderqueer, pangender, transgender (or trans man or trans woman,) agender, hijra and more. Simply update the app on your phone to begin using the feature.

Tinder’s ‘More Genders’ feature was initially launched in 2017, rolling out in countries like the United States, Spain, France, Germany, the U.K., Canada and more after the company noticed more and more young people were refusing to jam themselves into the cisgender box. After the Indian LGBTQ+ community’s triumphant victory against Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code earlier this year, it’s perfect timing for the update to finally make its debut in the country.

Options on the the ”˜Edit Info’ screen include bigender, genderqueer, pangender, transgender (or trans man or trans woman,) agender hijra and more. Photo: tinder.com

Before the launch today, Tinder India consulted with an advisory panel comprising members of the LGBTQ+ organization The Humsafar Trust and LGBTQ+ author and inclusion advocate, Parmesh Shahani. The NGO and writer added their inputs during the feature’s development, ensuring inclusivity of indigenous gender identities and to ensure the app reflects India’s unique and diverse culture.

“Inclusivity, acceptance and individuality are core values of Tinder,” said Taru Kapoor, GM of Tinder India, in a statement. “Users are best to assert their own identity, and our latest update gives them the opportunity to decide how to express themselves authentically. I think it is vital to be reflective of our time, and it has been a good year in India for gender, sexuality and personal autonomy. What has been crucial is the assistance provided by The Humsafar Trust and Parmesh in customizing the update for our community and including indigenous identities. Ensuring users feel like their true selves while using the platform is paramount. Everyone is welcome on Tinder.”