Discover New Friendships with Andy Dunn’s AI-Powered App, Pie!
In today’s digital age, making friends can be a daunting task, especially in bustling cities. Andy Dunn, the founder of the popular online fashion retailer Bonobos, is addressing this challenge with his latest venture, Pie. This innovative social app is designed to foster real-life connections among users, allowing them to make friends and build meaningful relationships.
Introducing Pie: A Social App for Real Connections
With an impressive $11.5 million Series A funding, Pie has quickly gained traction, boasting over 130,000 monthly active users despite its availability being limited to San Francisco and Chicago. The app’s mission is clear: to bring people together through in-person events. However, as the user base grows, so does the challenge of facilitating connections at crowded gatherings.
The Challenge of Crowded Events
As more users attend events organized through Pie, the question arises: How can attendees effectively connect in a busy environment? Dunn acknowledges the irony that while an increase in users enhances the app’s popularity, it also complicates social interactions.
Innovative Solutions: Sparked Connections
Fortunately, a solution was already in the works. Two event organizers on the Pie platform were collaborating on an AI-driven tool known as Sparked Connections. This quiz aims to predict which attendees are likely to connect well with each other during events. Pie recognized the potential of this tool and subsequently acquired the creators, Samir Mahafzah and Sam Stubbs, integrating their quiz into select gatherings branded as “Sparked by Pie.”
How Sparked Connections Works
At events like “Coffee with Strangers,” participants are required to complete a brief personality test before attending. The quiz prompts users to rate their agreement with various statements on a scale of 1 to 5, covering topics such as:
- Willingness to sacrifice stability for passion
- Beliefs in astrology
- Religious practices
- Voting habits
- Personal traits
The quiz’s algorithm then groups participants into ensembles of six based on compatibility predictions. These groups are created within a chat feature on the Pie app, allowing users to connect and engage before the event.
Harnessing AI for Enhanced Social Interactions
Dunn notes, “We’re starting to power it through ChatGPT. As we gather feedback on user interactions, we’ll gain insights on why certain individuals connect.” This innovative use of AI not only enhances the user experience but also addresses the growing concern of loneliness in modern society.
The Role of Technology in Socializing
While it may seem disheartening that algorithms are needed to facilitate friendships, it’s important to recognize the role technology plays in our social lives. Many have already experienced successful connections through platforms like Instagram or dating apps such as Bumble, demonstrating that AI can enhance personal relationships.
To learn more about Pie and how it fosters real-life connections, visit their official website: Pie App. For additional insights on loneliness and technology, check out this Psychology Today article.
