A Response to Justin McLeod’s “Introducing Overtone”
Rethinking Technology’s Place in Human Connection
Justin McLeod’s launch of Overtone, along with thoughts on his decade and a half at Hinge, arrives when questions about human connection matter more than ever. His take hits home - culture is shifting beneath our feet. Dating feels stretched thin, artificial intelligence moves fast, while growing numbers worry over how deeply digital worlds now shape personal bonds.
His article brings up a key point: what role should tech really play in how people connect?
At Bridgit Social, we focus on this query every day - because it drives what we do; shaping our efforts consistently.
Where Real Connection Actually Comes From
The truth is simple, but easy to overlook:
True bond comes from within, never from outside sources. Not born through code, digital masks, nor kind intermediaries either. Shows up because of traits built slowly - being there, listening, kindness, balance, truthfulness, plus the delicate skill of viewing someone as truly real. Each stems from origins unclear to us so far: consciousness.
This creates a dilemma we cannot ignore. If genuine relationships depend on qualities that are deeply human, how far can we rely on systems that are not conscious to guide, shape, or mediate them? What should remain in the domain of technology, and what must remain in the domain of people?
The Limits of Turning People into Data
McLeod correctly points out how the sector now focuses too much on hype, ease, or constant interaction. Still, my unease runs deeper. As platforms turn personal stories into text - and later data - we might lose what gives individuals depth. Sorting lives automatically works fast; yet, this practice could isolate people more, adding to isolation instead of reducing it.
When used wrongly, tech might push individuals further into screen time - exactly contrary to genuine interaction needs.
Where Technology Should Belong
Still, tech isn't the problem. The real chance comes by repositioning it where it belongs.
In our view at Bridgit Social, tech’s real potential in dating isn't about pulling users deeper into screens - but guiding them faster from browsing profiles to meeting face-to-face. When individuals linger too long online - swiping without pause, editing messages carefully, second-guessing every move - they often grow weary, detached from genuine feelings.
Reducing this difference creates a strong effect:
It limits emotional effort online - therefore, genuine connection grows offline.
This change helps individuals engage in face-to-face conversations earlier, feeling less worn out and more focused. Instead of repeating shallow digital patterns, they experience genuine moments - imperfect, spontaneous, yet rich in significance.
A Different Path Forward
Justin wants people to think deeper about using AI. Yet piling on extra tech isn't the fix - our online world's stretched enough. Instead, tools should boost real human bonds, not replace them. Sure, artificial intelligence can play a role - but only if it works in the background, never getting in the way.
At Bridgit Social, we act on one idea:
Technology ought to support relationships - rather than undermine the basics needed for them to exist.
With dating evolving - and businesses thinking ahead - we aim to support a system where folks swipe less, meet more. Fewer online stresses, deeper talks in person. Less fake closeness, stronger real connections.
True closeness needs bravery, openness, and consciousness - things no program can create. Yet proper instruments, applied with focus and moderation, allow individuals to engage authentically, showing up in ways that feel genuine and profoundly personal.
Stay tuned - new updates are on the way shortly.