How to Turn On the Dating Icon on Facebook

 

Let’s be real—dating has gone digital, and Facebook isn’t sitting on the sidelines. If you’re on the hunt for meaningful connections or just want to explore what’s out there, Facebook Dating might be your next move. But before you can meet potential matches, you’ve got to activate the feature. This blog post breaks it all down—step by step.

Step 1: Check If Facebook Dating Is Available in Your Area

First things first. Facebook Dating isn’t available everywhere. It’s rolled out in most countries, but not all. If you’re not seeing the icon, it might not be in your region yet.

Quick tip: Make sure your Facebook app is updated to the latest version. Sometimes, updates bring new features like Dating.

Step 2: Use the Right Device

Facebook Dating is only available on the mobile app—not on desktop. So grab your smartphone or tablet. If you're on a computer, you won't see the dating icon.

What you need: An Android or iOS device with the official Facebook app installed.

Step 3: Set Up Your Main Facebook Profile

Before you can access Dating, your main Facebook profile needs to be complete. Add a clear profile photo, list your interests, and make sure your basic info is filled out.

Why it matters: Facebook uses your main profile to help suggest potential matches who share common interests or are nearby.

Step 4: Locate the Dating Icon

Open the Facebook app and tap the menu (the three horizontal lines—usually at the bottom right for iOS and top right for Android).

Scroll down until you see the Dating with a Heart icon. Tap it.

Can’t find it?

• Tap the search bar and type “Facebook Dating.”

• Make sure your app is up to date.

• Restart your phone if necessary.

Step 5: Set Up Your Dating Profile

Now that you’ve found the icon, it’s time to create your dating profile. Don’t worry—it’s separate from your main Facebook profile.

Here’s what to do:

• Add photos (use recent ones!).

• Write a short bio.

• Answer a few personality questions.

• Set your preferences (age range, distance, interests).

Bonus: You can also answer prompts like “A perfect day for me is…” to make your profile more engaging.

Step 6: Adjust Your Privacy Settings

You control who sees your dating profile. Facebook won’t show it to your current friends, and you can block people if needed.

You can also:

• Decide if you want to be seen by friends of friends.

• Choose your preferred match criteria.

Note: Matches are based on your preferences, likes, and mutual interests.

Step 7: Start Browsing and Matching

Now comes the fun part—meeting people! Facebook will start showing you profiles of potential matches based on your location, preferences, and interests.

Swipe through and:

• Tap the heart to show interest.

• Tap the X to skip.

If they also tap the heart on your profile, it’s a match! You can then start chatting within the Dating section of the app.

Step 8: Use Special Features

Facebook Dating has a few cool tools to boost your experience:

• Secret Crush: Like someone on your friend list? Add them to your Secret Crush list. If they add you back, you both get notified.

• Second Look: Want to revisit skipped profiles? Use this to change your mind.

• Events & Groups: Match with people who are attending the same events or are part of the same groups.

Step 9: Stay Safe While Dating Online

Dating online can be exciting, but always put your safety first. Here are a few tips:

• Never share personal info too soon.

• Meet in public places for the first few dates.

• Tell a friend or family member where you’re going.

• Block and report anyone acting inappropriately.

Step 10: Troubleshooting Tips

Still not seeing the Dating icon? Try these fixes:

• Update your Facebook app.

• Check your region (the feature might not be available yet).

• Log out and log back in.

• Restart your phone.

• Reinstall the app.

If nothing works, check Facebook’s Help Centre or wait—it may still be rolling out in your area.

Conclusion

Facebook Dating offers a fresh and easy way to meet people nearby who are looking for the same thing as you. Whether you're aiming for friendship, fun, or forever love, getting started is simple. All it takes is updating your app, finding the dating icon, and putting yourself out there.

So go ahead, turn it on—and let the love connections begin!