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Introducing Hater App: A Unique Dating Platform
Hater App, developed by Brendan Alper, a former Goldman Sachs software engineer, is a mobile application that allows users to connect with like-minded individuals and share their opinions on a wide range of topics.
Originally featured on Shark Tank in 2016, the Hater App offers a distinctive approach to online dating by matching people based on their dislikes rather than their likes.
Users of the Hater App can ‘swipe’ left or right on various topics such as political issues, celebrities, food items, and more.
People can engage in conversations and discover common interests by comparing their swipes with those of others.
With over 4,000 topics to choose from, ranging from hot dogs to North Korea, the app provides a diverse platform for users to express their opinions.
The app’s unique matching system analyzes users’ swipes to determine their optimal matches. The Hater App aims to foster deeper connections between individuals by focusing on shared dislikes.
The platform allows for anonymous swiping, enabling users to find compatible partners based on mutual dislikes.
Brendan Alper’s inspiration for the Hater App stemmed from a comedy skit and research highlighting the bonding potential of shared dislikes.
Alper’s dedication to the concept led to the successful launch of the app in 2017. He funded the project through personal savings, 401(k) withdrawals, and contributions from friends and family.
Hater App quickly gained popularity in Germany after securing investments from Mark Cuban and Sweet Capital.
The app’s innovative approach to dating has resonated with users worldwide, with over 30,000 daily active members within the first month of its launch.
Hater App’s algorithm facilitated 200,000 matches by March 2017, solidifying its position as a trailblazer in the online dating sphere.
Recognized by Shark Tank, Hater App’s journey was showcased in the series’ ninth season, underscoring its impact on the digital dating landscape.
Brendan’s Journey on Shark Tank: A Strategic Investment Story
Brendan made a bold move by entering the Shark Tank show to pitch his dating app, Hater, in exchange for a $200,000 investment for a 5% stake in his company.
He showcased the app’s functionality and conducted a live demo for the Sharks, projecting various issues on a screen to gauge their reactions. Despite having 500,000 active users, the app is yet to be monetized.
Brendan took a significant risk by liquidating his 401(k) and securing $500,000 in venture capital to kickstart the business. Mark, one of the Sharks, viewed the daily active user count of 8000 to 10,000 as modest.
As the negotiations unfolded, different Sharks made offers and demands.
Rohan exited due to limited utilization, while Barbara proposed $250,000 for a 5% stake with an urgent response requirement.
Lori then stepped in with an offer of $200,000 for a 10% share, pledging to build a brand around the app.
Ultimately, Brendan accepted Mark’s offer of $200,000 for a 7.5% stake plus 2.5% in advisory shares.
In the final deal, Mark Cuban invested $200,000 in the Hater Dating App for a combined stake of 10%. Brendan’s strategic decisions and negotiation skills led to a successful outcome on the show.
Final Deal: Mark Cuban invests $200,000 For 7.5% + 2.5% Advisory Shares in Hater Dating App.
Hater App After Shark Tank: Journey Post Shark Tank
The Hater dating app made a significant impact upon its debut in 2017, with over a million downloads within its first year.
The app, created by Brendan Alper, aimed to facilitate connections based on shared dislikes rather than demonizing individuals or groups. It operated on the principles of physical attraction and opinion sharing.
Initially, the app gained traction with a 750,000-strong user base, allowing individuals to categorize their dislikes and likes into specific columns. The app faced challenges in sustaining profitability despite its unique approach and initial success.
Brendan Alper mentioned in a 2018 CNBC interview that the app struggled financially, leading to considerations of introducing premium memberships and advertising.
While the app garnered attention for its innovative concept, it eventually faced setbacks. The Hater app is no longer available on the App Store, and its Twitter account has been inactive since 2018.
Although no formal announcement regarding its closure has been made, the service appears to be offline.
Furthermore, Reddit users reported difficulties in finding matches in their area in 2019, indicating a decline in the app’s user base over time.
Despite efforts to monetize the app through advertising and premium subscriptions, the app’s financial viability became uncertain.
In recent months, the app has maintained a presence on social media platforms, accumulating a following on Instagram and Facebook. However, the future of the Hater app remains uncertain, with speculations about its discontinuation circulating.
Brendan Alper’s appearance on Shark Tank and the app’s valuation of $4 million during that time contrast with its current status of being out of business.
Hater’s legacy serves as a reminder that niche dating services face competitive challenges in today’s digital age.
The rise and fall of the Hater app underscore the complexities of sustaining a unique concept in the ever-evolving world of online dating.
Hater App is out of business, and its net worth is effectively $0. The valuation of the Hater App was $2 million after securing an investment from Mark Cuban on season 09 of Shark Tank.
