13 Abr Each identity must be distinct in code, and questions that force users to select binary-aligned pronouns should be removed

Bumble, like Tinder, encourages the ‘othering' of trans, gender non-conforming, and queer individuals through a cis heteronormative infrastructure that resituates users into binary and heteronormative sex-gender-sexuality regimes.

Conclusion

The distinct use of binary gender identity within the programming of dating applications like Tinder and Bumble is influenced by and promotes a binary-heterosexual model of gender-sexuality intelligibility. Tinder and Bumble therefore operate as part of the cis heterosexual matrix, in which gender identity falls into one of two unchanging categories, male or female, and that the only ‘natural' sexual relationship exists between a man and a woman is socially assumed and structurally reinforced. Advanced by app infrastructure, the stagnant depictions of gender coupled with the competitive nature of virtual dating platforms dangerously normalize the commodification of female users and the aggressive displays of male sexuality. Furthermore, the limitations in the interface and programming of both Tinder and Bumble render these applications largely inaccessible to transgender, gender non-conforming, and queer users.