Match.com Adds Video to its Messenger

(onlinedatingmagazine.com - April 26, 2004) Match.com has announced the launch of a video-enabled instant messaging service, allowing users of Match.com Messenger to view potential dates live, via webcam while sending and receiving text-based messages. The integration of video and text messaging takes virtual flirting to a new level as subscribers to Match.com Video can now demonstrate and notice each other's facial expressions, body language, actions and reactions, as they chat and get to know each other via text-based instant communications.

"Match.com Video has proven to be a popular and successful extension of our core service," said Tim Sullivan, president of Match.com. "We think that real-time video will eventually emerge as an important means of communication on Match.com. It's fun and truly a great way to get to know someone before the first date."

Users of the new real-time messaging service can start and stop a video session, view multiple messaging partners simultaneously and manage video streams. For users without webcams, Match.com has teamed up with Logitech, a leading manufacturer of webcams, to offer webcams that can be easily ordered on www.videos.match.com. With the purchase of a Logitech® QuickCam®, Match.com subscribers will receive a special, limited-time bonus of three months free access to the video service.

"Video instant messaging has become an extremely popular way to keep in touch with the people in your life," said Spencer Johnson, director of product marketing for Logitech's Video Business Unit. "Now, people can establish entirely new relationships by using Match.com with a Logitech QuickCam."

Subscribers of Match.com can log on to www.videos.match.com to get started. For a limited time, to encourage members to post a video profile, video posters will receive a complimentary Match.com Video subscription combined with two weeks free of the Match.com core service. Any member can view other members' profile videos, email videos to potential Match.com matches, and flirt via streaming webcams using Match.com's video instant messaging service for free during the introductory 7-day free trial, after which the $4.95 monthly subscription rate applies.

Tips for Using Video on Match.com Messenger

* Potential dates are most attracted to people who are having fun, and you'll make the best impression in your video if you relax, be yourself and enjoy meeting people face-to-face through Match.com's new real-time video messaging service.

* Your smile is worth a thousand words and can certainly transcend technological distance, so be sure to flash those pearly whites.

* Looks matter, especially when you save all your best looks for your keyboard and not your video messaging mates. Be sure to look up now and then and make virtual eye contact, unless you're hoping someone will fall in love with the part in your hair.

* Set yourself free. Move a little. Be expressive. Don't hold back, and remember to laugh, nod your head and do that sexy thing you do with your hair as the mood strikes you.

* Set the stage for romance with good lighting, a clean and presentable background and your best self. Put on a little lipstick, or shave, and be sure to make an effort to look your best.

In order to initiate real-time video communications one must already be a subscriber to the core Match.com service.