Ditto, a new AI-powered dating startup founded by UC Berkeley dropouts Eric Liu and Allen Wang, has raised $9.2 million in seed funding to help college students find love through intelligent, personalized matchmaking. The company, which launched in early 2025, uses AI to analyze user preferences and create real-life date experiences, aiming to move beyond the swipe culture that dominates traditional dating apps. Wang, 23, says the goal is simple: bring people back to in-person connections. After creating a profile, users text Ditto’s AI chatbot directly—no app download required—to share their ideal partner type and dating preferences. On Wednesdays, users receive a message introducing a potential match. After the date, Ditto collects feedback to refine future matches, using the data to improve its algorithm. “We’re bringing people back to in-real-life interactions,” Wang said. “People are tired of being trapped behind the apps.” The seed round was led by Peak XV, with participation from Alumni Ventures, Gradient, and Scribble Ventures. The funds will go toward hiring in AI and growth, as well as marketing. Ditto currently has 10 employees and has raised a total of $9.5 million since inception. Ditto’s pitch deck, which outlines the company’s vision, begins with a critique of traditional dating apps, calling them “primitive.” It positions AI agents as the future of dating, using a retro video game aesthetic inspired by Super Mario Bros. to convey a playful, forward-thinking brand identity. The app’s AI evaluates more than surface-level traits—it assesses compatibility based on shared humor, values, and vibes. The system simulates conversations and predicts whether two people would have a meaningful connection. According to Wang, the AI identifies “hidden dots” that traditional apps miss. Ditto is targeting college students, a demographic known for embracing new technology. The company has already attracted around 42,000 users across several California campuses. To boost signups, Ditto hosts themed events like yacht parties—its first was held this summer, and a Valentine’s Day event in Los Angeles is planned, where 100 students will be paired into 50 couples. For now, Ditto is free, with the company prioritizing user growth over monetization. It’s currently gathering feedback on what users would be willing to pay for curated dates, with plans to introduce pricing in the future. Other AI dating startups like Sitch, Known, and Amata are also gaining traction, while established players like Tinder and Bumble are testing AI features to re-engage users. Ditto’s approach—combining AI-driven matchmaking with real-world social events—reflects a growing trend: using technology not just to connect people, but to help them build meaningful relationships.