A new dating app called Goose, marketed as an "anti-algorithm" platform focused on friendships over hookups, is facing scrutiny over its moderation policies and inclusivity, with some users reporting feeling excluded despite the app's promises.
Erick Hall, an OnlyFans creator, was initially intrigued by Goose's mission to offer an alternative to hookup-centric apps. However, his experience was cut short when his account was flagged as inappropriate for seemingly violating guidelines against "nudity, pornography, and sexually suggestive vulgar content," despite his profile featuring modest photos and omitting his adult performer status. This incident occurred shortly after a WIRED report exposed a network of AI-generated Instagram accounts potentially used by Goose co-founder David Aliagas to attract users.
While some users describe Goose as a space that facilitates genuine relationships while still allowing for casual encounters, others point to significant issues with moderation and inclusivity. The app, which operates on an invite-only or application basis, features tools like disappearing chats and a live map, features that some LGBTQIA+ users argue lean towards facilitating hookups rather than friendships, questioning the necessity of features like vanish mode and screenshot protection.
Hunter Lawrence, who joined Goose seeking a break from transactional dating app interactions, found that while most of his conversations remained PG, some users still exhibited sexual behavior. He views Goose as aiming to be a versatile social media app, a sentiment echoed by others who appreciate its departure from the hyper-sexualized marketing prevalent in the gay dating scene.
Complaints also highlight inconsistencies in the verification process and a lack of inclusivity. One user alleged rejection of photos featuring makeup, suggesting a potential bias towards masculine presentation, and the app's exclusion of pronouns in bios. Raffy Regulus, who identifies as nonbinary, raised concerns about the lack of racial diversity in New York City, noting a scarcity of Black and Latinx users on the platform and an abundance of profiles that appeared generic or AI-generated.
Goose co-founder Derek Chadwick denies that the company makes decisions based on users' identity or presentation and states the app was built without exclusionary mechanics found in older platforms, such as ethnicity filters. Despite the controversies, Goose reports over 250,000 conversations initiated since its launch, though user numbers remain undisclosed. The app has also faced accusations of data mining and issues with fake profiles, though Chadwick maintains that moderation efforts are ongoing and verification system details are withheld to prevent exploitation.
