Bumble lets men start chats, extends reply window to 72 hours
Bumble announced it is removing its rule that prevented men from messaging first, allowing men to initiate conversations. The platform also extends the time to respond to initial messages from 24 to 72 hours. CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd says the change is about reducing pressure and giving users more flexibility, reflecting feedback and busy modern dating. The move comes amid slow dating-app growth and reports of a potential sale, alongside prior layoffs and revenue pressures.