OKCupid plays with our hearts without worry
The dating site conducted an experiment that falsified compatibility matches without telling users. When the results were published, OKCupid's co-founder said only two users complained. CNET's Bridget Carey explains the test and why it matters.
- Bridget has spent over 18 years as a consumer tech reporter, hosting daily tech news shows and writing syndicated newspaper columns. She's often a guest on national radio and television stations, including ABC, CBS, CNBC and NBC.
CNET Update wonders what's love got to do with it:
In today's episode, learn about the recent experiment OKCupid conducted on its users in the name of science, and why some see it as unethical. The dating site hasn't seen much push-back from users with the false match results. In an e-mail to CNET, OKCupid co-founder Christian Rudder said on the day his post went up, the site only received two user complaints.
Facebook felt some heat recently for its own secret emotionally-manipulative experiment. But Facebook finds a new way to annoy some users this week. It will now require mobile users to download the separate Messenger app if you want to send private messages. In a few days, the main Facebook app won't include the Messages Inbox.
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CNET Update delivers the tech news you need in under three minutes. Watch Bridget Carey every afternoon for a breakdown of the big stories, hot devices, new apps, and what's ahead. Subscribe to the podcast via the links below.
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