Facebook users in Ireland can sign-up to its new dating service from today.
Facebook Dating has been available in 20 countries up to now, with the social network saying it has resulted in more than 1.5 billion matches.
Users will be able to share moments of their day, with a secret crush feature that lets people explore potential relationships with others they already know by adding them to their secret crush list.
If the other user also adds you to their list, you will be matched, but if they do not add you, or do not create a list, they will not be notified.
Dating will also allow people to share their Stories from Facebook or Instagram on their profile.
The service can be accessed through the existing Facebook app, with users opting-in to create a separate profile away from their Facebook page according to the Irish Examiner.
The move into the online dating world is Facebook's attempt to emulate the success of apps such as Tinder, Bumble and Hinge.
The company said Dating had been built with “safety, security and privacy at the forefront”.
“We won’t suggest current Facebook friends as potential matches or notify them that you’ve joined Dating. For example, your Dating profile, Dating messages, and who you like or match within Dating won’t appear on your Facebook News Feed.
“We’re committed to making Facebook Dating a place where people feel comfortable looking for a date and starting meaningful relationships,” Facebook said in a statement.
