Gay hook-up app Grindr is currently trialing a new ultra-premium subscription plan – that uses artificial intelligence and costs members $500 per month.

The plan, called EDGE, is being tested with a selection of users in the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, with prices ranging from $349.99 to $499.99.

Grindr has confirmed that EDGE will not replace the current Grindr Unlimited subscription service, but rather sit above it.

READ MORE: Grindr announced extra safety measures for LGBTQ+ athletes at Winter Olympics

In a post shared to the app’s website, Grindr announced that it would become an AI-first company, which it says means “a faster, smarter, more personalised app that helps you connect with less effort and makes every conversation count”.

Powered by gAI™, Grindr’s own AI stack, EDGE is embedded across the entire user journey of the app.

New AI features include recaps of previous conversations with other users, daily personalised profile recommendations and profile insights to help users identify who they are more likely to be compatible with.

The high price point has been met with scepticism from many users online.

“$500 a month? At that point just hire a matchmaker and a therapist,” wrote one person.

“You can spend as much money as you want on Grindr to increase your presence on the grid, expand your reach, and whatever else, but if you’re chopped, you’re chopped,” said another.

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