Real mind matching

Abstract

A method includes receiving an answer selection indicating a plurality of responses to a plurality of questions on an online dating service, the answer selection associated with a terminal apparatus of a seeker; determining to show at least a portion of a profile of a target on the online dating service to the seeker; causing a determination of a number of compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses; and causing a display, on the terminal apparatus of the seeker, of at least the portion of the profile of the target and the number of compatible answers.

Description

REAL MIND MATCHING

[0001] This application claims priority to US Provisional Patent App. No. 63 / 635,147, filed April 17, 2024, entitled "Real Mind Matching." The entire contents of that application are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0002] This disclosure relates to information and communication technology specially adapted for implementation in social networking and, in particular, to sharing limited information about private preferences of users on a social network.

[0003] In a typical social networking platform, such as an on-line dating service, users post publicly-available profiles about themselves (i.e., as "targets") to solicit the interest of other users (i.e., "seekers"). In some dating services, users categorize themselves as only a target or as only a seeker. However, in many such dating services, users operate intermittently as both targets and seekers.

[0004] To avoid reducing their appeal to potential seekers, users sometimes do not fully express, in their publicly-available profiles, their true criteria for matches. For example, a user might want to avoid proactively limiting their potential matches by disclosing these criteria and, thereby, keep their options for matching open. Further, a user might want to avoid misunderstandings or potentially miss out on a match by disclosing these criteria.

[0005] In a first implementation of the present disclosure, a method includes receiving an answer selection indicating a respective response of a plurality of responses to a plurality of questions on an online dating service, the answer selection associated with a terminal apparatus of a seeker; determining to show at least a portion of a profile of a target on the online dating service to the seeker; causing a determination of a number of compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses; and causing a display, on the terminal apparatus of the seeker, of at least the portion of the profile of the target and the number of compatible answers.

[0006] In a second implementation of the present disclosure, an apparatus includes a network interface that receives an answer selectin indicating a respective response of a plurality of responses to a plurality of questions on an online dating service; and a processor configured to determine to show at least a portion of a profile of a target on the online dating service to the seeker, and to cause a determination of a number of compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses, wherein at least the portion of the profile of the target and the number of compatible answers is to be displayed on the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

[0007] In a third implementation of the present disclosure, a computer-readable medium is encoded with instructions that, when executed by a processor of a computing device, cause the computing device to perform operations. The operations comprise receiving an answer selectin indicating a respective response of a plurality of responses to a plurality of questions on an online dating service, the answer selection associated with a terminal apparatus of a seeker; determining to show at least a portion of a profile of a target on the online dating service to the seeker; causing a determination of a number of compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses; and causing a display, on the terminal apparatus of the seeker, of at least the portion of the profile of the target and the number of compatible answers.

[0008] Fig. 1 illustrates an information processing system, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0009] Fig. 2 illustrates a signal diagram, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0010] Fig. 3 illustrates a signal diagram of a user answering a question on a social networking platform, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0011] Fig. 4 illustrates a signal diagram for displaying a number of compatible answers between users, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0012] Fig. 5 illustrates a signal diagram for revealing to a seeker a compatible answer of a target to a question, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0013] Fig. 6A illustrates an example of a theme selection on a terminal apparatus of a user, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0014] Fig. 6B illustrates an example of answering a question within a theme on the terminal apparatus of the user, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0015] Fig. 7A illustrates a portion of a profile of a target, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0016] Fig. 7B illustrates another portion of the profile of the target, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0017] Fig. 8 illustrates a display of the terminal apparatus when a user receives a like from another user, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0018] Fig. 9A illustrates a message section arising after a mutual like, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0019] Fig. 9B illustrates a reveal of the matching answers, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0020] Fig. 10 illustrates an example of a computing device, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0021] According to various implementations of the present disclosure, a user can set "private preference" criteria. The social networking platform generally does not publicly display the content of these criteria to other users, such as potential romantic partners, potential platonic partners, and so on. Rather, these other users can view an indication of a degree of similarity (e.g., a number) of answers matching between their own "private preferences" and those of the user. It is expected these other users would be more interested in the user, if the other users know their criteria matches the user's criteria.

[0022] Although these criteria have been designated as "private preference," it is to be understood that this nomenclature is merely for explanatory purposes and is not to be understood as limiting. For example, the social networking platform can disclose the "private preferences" to a user as a premium feature. In select implementations, a user can access a premium feature by paying money, watching an advertisement, or completing a task (e.g., answering a predetermined number of questions).

[0023] Further, the "preferences" might not be absolute requirements of a user. It is fully contemplated that a match can occur between two users, although one or both users might not meet at least one "preference" criterion of the other user.

[0024] Thus, "private preferences" should not be understood as being absolutely "private" under all conceivable definitions, nor should "preferences" be understood as being mandatory under all conceivable definitions.

[0025] By setting up these "private preference" criteria, various implementations can help users of the social networking platform find matches who meet those criteria without having to openly mention the criteria in their profile.

[0026] Further, the social networking platform can reveal different scopes of information (e.g., the number of matching criteria or the content of matching criteria), based on the relationship status between the two users. For example, if neither user has sent the other user a like or if only one user has sent the other user a like, the platform can display only some information related to the "private preference" criteria (e.g., the number of matching criteria) to each user, while concealing the content of the "private preference" criteria itself. And in situations of a mutual (i.e., two-sided) like, the platform can reveal the questions and the content of the matching "private preference" criteria to the two users.

[0027] Fig. 1 illustrates an information processing system 100, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. The information processing system 100 can include a first terminal apparatus 120, a second terminal apparatus 140, a network 160, and the server apparatus 180. The server apparatus 180 can host a social networking platform or be one of a plurality of apparatuses that host the social networking platform.

[0028] A first user can log into the social networking platform via the first terminal apparatus 120 connecting to the network 160. Thus, the first terminal apparatus 120 can interact with the social networking platform by sending messages to and receiving messages from the server apparatus 180 via the network 160. Similarly, a second user can log into the social networking platform via the second terminal apparatus 140 connecting to the network 160. Thus, the second terminal apparatus 140 can interact with the social networking platform by sending messages to and receiving messages from the server apparatus 180 via the network 160.

[0029] Of course, the first terminal apparatus 120 and the second terminal apparatus 140 can interact with the social networking platform in other ways, such as uploading a profile of a user, viewing profiles of other users, sending likes to and receiving likes from other users, uploading "private preference" criteria of their own, and downloading "private preference " criteria of other users.

[0030] In many implementations, the first terminal apparatus 120 and the second terminal apparatus 140 can transmit messages to each other and receive messages from each other via the network 160 and the server apparatus 180. Further, in some implementations, the first terminal apparatus 120 and the second terminal apparatus 140 can transmit messages to each other and receive messages from each other, independent of the network 160 and the server apparatus 180. This independent communication can occur, for example, after their respective users exchange contact information on the social networking platform. For example, the first terminal apparatus 120 and the second terminal apparatus 140 can exchange messages via a short message service (SMS), social networking service (SNS), email, or application program ("app").

[0031] Although illustrated as including an antenna in Fig. 1, the network 160 is not limited thereto. Indeed, the network 160 can include any number of wired or wireless connections.

[0032] Fig. 2 illustrates a signal diagram 200, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. The signal diagram 200 illustrates a terminal apparatus of a seeker 220, a terminal apparatus of a target 240, and a server apparatus 280.

[0033] As illustrated in Fig. 2, the server apparatus 280 can send N questions to the terminal apparatus of the seeker 220 and K questions to the terminal apparatus of the target 240. N and K are predetermined integers greater than or equal to 1. N and K can be different or the same. In many implementations, N and K are lower than the total number of such questions available on the server apparatus 280.

[0034] In various implementations, the questions are independent of or in addition to questions that form a primary basis for matching users (e.g., a compatibility quiz conducted at registration with the online dating service). Therefore, in many implementations, N and K can be relatively low numbers. For example, N can be 3, and K can be 2.

[0035] The seeker enters N answers into the terminal apparatus of the seeker 220, which transmits the N answers to the server apparatus 280. Similarly, the target enters K answers into the terminal apparatus of the target 240, which transmits the K answers to the server apparatus 280.

[0036] The server apparatus 280 then transmits to the terminal apparatus of the seeker 220 a number of compatible answers between the N answers and the K answers. For example, if N is 3, and K is 2, then this number is 0, 1, or 2.

[0037] In the example of Fig. 2, the seeker and the target both entered a number of answers equal to the number of questions received by their respective terminal apparatuses. In many implementations, this equality is optional. For example, the seeker or the target can receive a greater number of questions and simply decline to answer one or more of the questions.

[0038] Fig. 3 illustrates a signal diagram 300 of a user answering a question on a social networking platform, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0039] The signal diagram 300 begins at 310, in which a server apparatus of the social networking platform stores a predetermined number of questions. This number can be relatively large, such as 20. Each of the questions can belong to one or more of a plurality of themes. The flow then advances to 315.

[0040] In 315, a terminal apparatus of the user transmits a login request to the server apparatus. The login request can include or indicate a network location of the social networking platform, such as a uniform resource locator (URL), an Internet Protocol (IP) address, or a media access control (MAC) address of the server apparatus. The terminal apparatus can receive the network address from an app executed by the terminal apparatus or from a uniform resource locator (URL) entered into the terminal apparatus by the user.

[0041] The login request can include a network location of the terminal apparatus, as well as an identifier of the user who uses the terminal apparatus. For example, the identifier can be or include a combination of a user ID and password or a biometric authentication. In some implementations, the login is performed with multifactor authentication. The flow then advances to 320.

[0042] In 320, the server apparatus transmits a theme request received by the terminal apparatus of the user. The theme request includes or indicates the network location of the terminal apparatus of the user and the plurality of themes of the questions. In some implementations, the theme request can include a session ID by which the server apparatus can identify the user or the network location of the terminal apparatus.

[0043] The server can transmit the theme request during a profile registration by the user. The server can additionally or alternatively transmit the theme request in response to a request for the theme request transmitted by the terminal apparatus of the user. The server can also transmit the theme request at a predetermined time, such as once per week, until the user answers a predetermined number of questions (e.g., three questions).

[0044] The flow then advances to 325.

[0045] In 325, the terminal apparatus of the user transmits a theme selection received by the server apparatus. The theme selection indicates or includes a theme, such as one of the plurality of themes selected by the user on the terminal apparatus. The theme selection can indicate or include the network location of the server apparatus. The theme selection can additionally include or indicate the identifier of the user or the session ID. The flow then advances to 330.

[0046] In 330, the server apparatus determines a first question of the plurality of questions, at least in part based on the theme indicated or included in the theme selection. The flow then advances to 335.

[0047] In 335, the server apparatus transmits an answer request received by the terminal apparatus of the user. The answer request can include or indicate the first question of the plurality of questions, as well as a plurality of answers to the first question. The answer request can include or indicate the address of the terminal apparatus. The flow then advances to 340.

[0048] The user can select an answer to the first question using the terminal apparatus of the user. For example, a display of the terminal apparatus can display the question and the plurality of answers. The user can then select one of the plurality of answers with a user input interface of the terminal apparatus.

[0049] In 340, the terminal apparatus of the user transmits an answer selection received by the server apparatus. The answer selection includes or indicates the answer to the first question, as well as the identifier of the user or the session ID. The answer selection can indicate or include the network location of the server apparatus. The flow then advances to 345.

[0050] In 345, the server determines whether to repeat by sending another question and receiving an answer to that question. For example, the server can determine whether it has received N answers from the terminal apparatus. If the server determines that it has not received N answers, then the flow returns to 320. If the server determines that it has received N answers, the flow concludes.

[0051] Thus, the server apparatus can store the answer in association with the user, such as in the profile of the user.

[0052] In the example of Fig. 3, the signal flow is set forth in relation to one user who can act as a seeker. The signal flow can be performed by other users, as well. In such a case, the seeker can potentially interact with these other users as targets. Similarly, one of the other users can act as a seeker and view the user as a target. Thus, the flow of Fig. 3 can be performed by a seeker and independently by a target.

[0053] Fig. 4 illustrates a signal diagram 400 for displaying a number of compatible answers between users, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. A flow of the signal diagram 400 begins in 420.

[0054] In 420, the server apparatus determines to show a portion of a profile of a target to a seeker. This determination can be based on any criteria. For example, the determination can be based on conventional matching criteria, such as a location of the seeker and a location of the target, a recency of a login by the target, or shared interests in respective profiles of the seeker and the target. The determination can additionally or alternatively be based on the target boosting their profile, for example.

[0055] The portion of the profile can be or include a portion (e.g., top 80%) of a primary profile picture of the target, for example. The portion of the profile can be or include the entirety of the profile of the target or any portion thereof. The flow then advances to 430.

[0056] In 430, the server apparatus and a terminal apparatus of the seeker can cause a determination of a number of compatible answers between the seeker and the target. In many implementations, the server apparatus performs this determination. In at least one implementation, the server apparatus transmits the answers of the seeker and the target to the terminal apparatus, and the terminal apparatus performs the determination. In particular implementations, the server apparatus does not transmit the answers of the seeker, because the answers of the seeker are stored on the terminal apparatus. Other distributed computing implementations are possible, as well. The flow then advances to 440.

[0057] In 440, the server apparatus transmits the portion of the profile, which is received by the terminal apparatus. In implementations in which the server apparatus performed the determination in 430, the server apparatus also transmits in 440 the number of compatible answers, which is received by the terminal apparatus. The flow then advances to 450.

[0058] In 450, the terminal apparatus outputs the portion of the profile of the target and the number of compatible answers. For example, a display of the terminal apparatus can simultaneously display the number of compatible answers and the portion of the profile. In such an implementation, the number of compatible answers can be overlaid on the portion of the profile. In another implementation, the terminal apparatus audibly outputs the number of compatible answers or the portion of the profile. In many implementations, the output does not include a compatible answer of the target to one of the questions itself; rather, the output indicates a number of such compatible answers.

[0059] The flow of signal diagram 400 can then conclude.

[0060] Thus, by transmitting the portion of the profile and information associated with the number of compatible answers, the server apparatus can cause the display of the portion of the profile and the number of compatible answers on the terminal apparatus.

[0061] Fig. 5 illustrates a signal diagram 500 for revealing to a seeker a compatible answer of a target to a question, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. A flow of the signal diagram 500 begins at 520.

[0062] In 520, a terminal apparatus of the seeker transmits a like of the target, and the server apparatus receives the like. The like can indicate an identifier of the seeker or a session ID, for example. The like can additionally indicate or include an identifier of the target.

[0063] The terminal apparatus of the seeker can transmit the like in response to receiving an input from the seeker. For example, the terminal apparatus can receive the input via a user input interface, while a display of the terminal apparatus is displaying a portion of the profile of the target. In some implementations, the display can display a soft button that sends the like. The flow then optionally advances to 530.

[0064] In 530, the terminal apparatus optionally transmits an answer reveal request. The answer reveal request can indicate the target and can include or indicate the identifier of the seeker or the session ID. The flow then advances to 540.

[0065] In 540, the server can determine whether there is a mutual like between the seeker and the target. For example, the server can determine whether the target has previously liked the seeker, such that a mutual like is established by the receipt of the like of the target from the seeker. If the server determines that there is a mutual like, the flow advances to 560. The server determines that there is not a mutual like, then the flow advances to 550.

[0066] In 550, the server determines whether the seeker has access to a premium feature. For example, the seeker can receive access to a premium feature by paying money, watching an advertisement, or completing a task (e.g., answering a predetermined number of questions). If the server determines the seeker does not have access to the premium feature, then the flow advances to its conclusion. If the server determines the seeker has access to the premium feature, then the flow can advance to 560.

[0067] In 560, the server determines the compatible answers of the target. For example, the server can retrieve the answers stored in the profile of the target, based on the identifier of the target included in the like transmitted in 520. The server can then compare the answers of the seeker and the answers of the target to determine the compatible answers. The flow then advances to 570.

[0068] In 570, the server transmits an answer reveal that is received by the terminal apparatus of the seeker. The answer reveal can include or indicate the compatible answers (i.e., the content of the answers itself). The answer reveal can include or indicate an address of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

[0069] The terminal apparatus can then output the compatible answers to the seeker. For example, a display of the terminal apparatus can display the compatible answers. In some implementations, the terminal apparatus outputs the compatible answers audibly, such as via a speaker or headphone.

[0070] In many implementations, the terminal apparatus does not output an answer of the target that is not compatible with the seeker. Thus, in various implementations, the answer reveal does not include an answer of the target that is not compatible with an answer of the seeker.

[0071] Fig. 6A illustrates an example of a theme selection on a terminal apparatus of a user, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. Fig. 6B illustrates an example of answering a question within a theme on the terminal apparatus of the user, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0072] Fig. 6A illustrates a display of the terminal apparatus including a plurality of themes for questions for illustration purposes and not for limitation thereto. The display of Fig. 6A includes five themes, namely, Discussing Expenditures, How to Use Money, Self Satisfaction, Priority of Love, and Decision-Making. Various implementations will include more or fewer themes.

[0073] The terminal apparatus can receive a selection of one or more of the five themes via a user interface. In the example illustrated in Fig. 6A, a user of the terminal apparatus can select up to three themes. For example, the user can tap on a theme on a touchscreen that displays the five themes, such as "Priority of Love." In some implementations, the display will show a selection of the theme by changing the color of the selected theme, changing a color of the non-selected themes, or by otherwise demarking the selection (e.g., by displaying a second box around a first box enclosing the theme). The user can then confirm the selection by selecting the "Save Selection" button at the bottom of the display. The terminal apparatus can then transmit a theme selection identifying the selected themes to the server apparatus.

[0074] In many implementations, the user can cancel the selection of the themes by selecting the X icon in the upper left corner of the display, for example.

[0075] Fig. 6B illustrates a display of the terminal apparatus following the transmission of the theme selection and the receipt of the answer request. In Fig. 6B, the terminal apparatus displays a question in one of the selected themes, as well as a plurality of answers to the question. The user can then select one of the plurality of questions via the user input interface.

[0076] The example of Fig. 6B can arise upon a selection of the "Priority of Love" theme in Fig. 6A.

[0077] The user can cancel a process of answering the question by selecting the "Cancel" button. Alternatively, after selecting an answer, the user can commit their answer by selecting the "Save Answer" button. The terminal apparatus can then transmit an answer selection indicating the selected answer and a network location of the terminal apparatus.

[0078] In many implementations of the present disclosure, each theme has only one question associated with it. In some implementations, there are several questions within a theme.

[0079] In many implementations, there are more questions than a user is permitted to answer. For example, if a user is permitted to answer three questions, then such implementations include at least four questions.

[0080] Regarding how to determine the number of compatible answers between a seeker and a target (e.g., in the context of operation 430), different implementations can use various processes. For example, some answers can be counted as matching, if the answers to the same question for the seeker and the target are the same. In this situation, different answers are not counted as matching.

[0081] As an example of such a question and its answers, the question might be "Paying over $15 for lunch daily is . . . ." The answers might be "OK" and "Not OK." In such an example, it is expected that having opposite answers could create disharmony, because one user's behavior is not OK with the other user.

[0082] In another example, some answers are counted as matching if answers are opposites. For example, in some situations, people having opposite approaches are attracted to each other. In this situation, same answers are not counted as matching.

[0083] As an example of such a question and its answers, the question might be "Decision-making when together . . . ." The answers might be "Want to lead" and "Want to follow partner." In such an example, it is expected that having the same answer could create disharmony, because one user's behavior is incompatible with the other user's behavior.

[0084] In many implementations of the present disclosure, there are only two answers to each question. Thus, because the answers are binary, the only possible relationships are "same" or "opposite." In some implementations, there are more than two answers to a question. In such an implementation, some answers can be counted as matching if they are related, but are not the same or opposites. Further, the answers can be counted as not matching, if they are the same or opposites, depending on the particular question and answers.

[0085] Thus, a "private preference" can be counted as matching when two users receive a same question and select matching answers. In some implementations, the same question can only be received by the users mutually selecting a same question theme, but the present disclosure is not limited to such a circumstance.

[0086] In many implementations of the present disclosure, the server can recommend a target to a seeker, based on a matching number of questions. In several implementations, the matching number of questions is an additional basis for the matching that supplements criteria such as geographic location, distance, or recency of access to the online dating service. Accordingly, in many implementations, the server can increase the probability of recommending users with matching answers or decrease the probability of recommending users with non-matching answers. Such a recommendation can be implemented in various methods, including adding plus or minus recommendation scores, according to the number of matching answers.

[0087] Fig. 7A illustrates a portion of a profile of a target, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. Fig. 7B illustrates another portion of the profile of the target, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0088] In the example illustrated in Fig. 7A, the server can recommend a target, Haruka, to a seeker, based on the matching answers of the "private preferences." Thus, the terminal apparatus can receive a portion of a profile of the target and display the portion to the seeker.

[0089] In various implementations, the portion is displayed in a Discovery Mode of an app executed on the terminal apparatus. The portion can additionally or alternatively be displayed in a web browser, for example, or in a different mode.

[0090] In the example of Fig. 7A, only a number of matching answers of the target is displayed to the seeker. That is, the content (e.g., the themes, questions, and answers) of the "private preference" criteria of the target can be concealed from the seeker.

[0091] As illustrated in Fig. 7A, the number of matching answers of the seeker with the target is shown, e.g., in the match box 720 on the top left of the photo of the target. For example, the match box 720 shows that the number of matching answers between the seeker and Haruka is four. In many implementations, the number of the matching answers can be determined based on the questions answered by the target and the seeker. Thus, the number of matching answers can be a value between zero and the fewest number of "private preferences" selected by the seeker and the target.

[0092] Whether a same answer or an opposite answer is considered to match another user's answer depends on the particular question in various implementations.

[0093] In some implementations, the number of mutually-selected questions can be shown. In particular, the match box 720 can include or indicate a fraction representing the number of matching answers out of the number of mutually-selected questions (e.g., 4 / 5). Further, in some implementations, the identity of any mutually-selected themes or questions can be shown, rather than the number of matching answers.

[0094] Indeed, not all implementations display the total number of matching answers. As another example, a particular implementation can display only the number of matching answers of the target that are oppositely related (e.g., "Want to lead" and "Want to follow"). In addition, some implementations can display the content of one or more of such oppositely related answers selected by the target.

[0095] As shown in Fig. 7A, the display indicates Haruka is 25 years old, lives in Kanagawa, and is currently online.

[0096] The terminal apparatus can receive an input, such as a tap, of selecting the like box 740 from the seeker via a user input interface. In this case, the terminal apparatus can send a like to the server to indicate that the seeker likes the target. By sending a like, the seeker indicates a willingness to begin a conversation with the target.

[0097] The terminal apparatus can also receive an input, such as dragging left, on the photograph of the target. In this case, the terminal apparatus can transmit to the server a skip to receive at least a portion of a profile of another target.

[0098] Fig. 7B illustrates another portion of the profile of the target, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. The example of Fig. 7B shows a target in a Profile Mode, for example. In the Profile Mode, a greater portion of the profile of the target is shown. In addition, the seeker can view additional images uploaded by the target. The match box 720 can also be displayed simultaneously with the photo of the target in the Profile Mode.

[0099] Fig. 8 illustrates a display of the terminal apparatus when a user receives a like from another user, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. The display shows at least a portion of a profile of the user who sent the like.

[0100] For example, if a terminal apparatus of a user Makoto was displaying the profile of the user Haruka in Fig. 7A and sent a like, then Fig. 8 can represent what a terminal apparatus of Haruka displays.

[0101] As illustrated in Fig. 8, the terminal apparatus of the liked user displays the number of answers of the liking user that match with the liked user, e.g., in the match box 820 on the top left of the photo of the liking user. For example, the match box 820 shows that the number of matching answers between Makoto and the liked user is four.

[0102] In some implementations, the terminal apparatus can display the number of mutually-selected questions or the content of the mutually-selected questions itself. In some such implementations, the terminal apparatus can hide the number of matching answers or the contents of the matching answers.

[0103] A particular implementation can display only the number of matching answers of the liking user (e.g., Makoto) that are oppositely related. In addition, some implementations can display the content of one or more of such oppositely related answers selected by the liking user.

[0104] In many implementations, the contents of the mutually-selected questions and the contents of the matching answers can be hidden, when viewing a profile of a liking user.

[0105] The terminal apparatus can receive an input, such as a tap on return button 860, to return to viewing profiles of other users. In this case, the terminal apparatus does not transmit a like of the liking user. The terminal apparatus can also receive an input, such as a tap on like button 880, to send a like to the liking user. In this latter situation the terminal apparatus transmits a like of the liking user to the server, and a two-sided conversation can begin.

[0106] Fig. 9A illustrates a message section arising after a mutual like, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. Fig. 9B illustrates a reveal of the matching answers, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0107] If the user Haruka likes the user Makoto in Fig. 8, the terminal apparatus can advance to a display similar to Fig. 9A, for example.

[0108] In the example of Fig. 9A, a user Misato has exchanged mutual likes with another user. The terminal apparatus of Misato can display, in the lower portion of the display of Fig. 9A, messages sent to her. By entering text into the text box at the bottom of the display, Misato can transmit messages from the terminal apparatus to a server to be displayed on a terminal apparatus of the other user. Thus, Misato and the other user can begin a conversation.

[0109] If Misato selects the confirmation button 910, the terminal apparatus can advance to Fig. 9B. In Fig. 9B, the terminal apparatus reveals the matching answers of the other user to Misato. Thus, the other user can generally prevent these "private preferences" from being disclosed publicly, until a match is made with a user (e.g., Misato). Further, Misato can learn of these preferences in the context of conducting a conversation with the other user. Additionally, interest between the two users can be increased by displaying the number of matching answers prior to the match.

[0110] Also, because the "private preferences" can be disclosed as a premium feature, the online dating service is also able to achieve desirable outcomes, such as having users answer additional questions.

[0111] In the example of Fig. 9B, the number and the contents of "private preferences" that do not match with each other are not displayed. Thus, for example, Misato would not be aware if the other user had answered a same fourth question with a non-matching answer. In select implementations, the terminal apparatus can display a number or contents of non-matching themes, questions, or answers.

[0112] Fig. 10 illustrates a computing device 1000, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. The terminal apparatus and the server apparatus can each be implemented with the computing device 1000.

[0113] The computing device 1000 can include a network interface 1010, a user input interface 1020, a memory 1030, a program 1035, a processor 1040, a user output interface 1050, and a bus 1055.

[0114] Although illustrated within a single housing, the computing device 1000 can be distributed across plural housings or sub-systems that cooperate in executing program instructions. In some implementations, the computing device 1000 can include one or more blade server devices, standalone server devices, personal computers (including laptop computers and tablet computers), routers, hubs, switches, bridges, firewall devices, intrusion detection devices, mainframe computers, network-attached storage devices, smartphones and other mobile telephones, and other computing devices. Although the computing device executes the Windows OS, macOS, or Linux in many implementations, the hardware can be configured according to a Symmetric Multi-Processing (SMP) architecture or a Non-Uniform Memory Access (NUMA) architecture.

[0115] The network interface 1010 provides one or more communication connections and / or one or more devices that allow for communication between the computing device 1000 and other computing systems (not shown) over a communication network, collection of networks (not shown), or the air, to support the real mind matching, outlined herein. The network interface 1010 can communicate using various networks (including both internal and external networks) such as near-field communications (NFC), Wi-FiTM, Bluetooth, Ethernet, cellular (e.g., 3G, 4G, 5G), white space, 802.11x, satellite, LTE, GSM / HSPA, CDMA / EVDO, DSRC, CAN, GPS, facsimile, or any other wired or wireless interface. Other interfaces can include physical ports (e.g., Ethernet, USB, HDMI, etc.), interfaces for wired and wireless internal subsystems, and the like. Similarly, nodes and user equipment (e.g., mobile devices) of a computing system that includes the computing device 1000 can also include suitable interfaces for receiving, transmitting, and / or otherwise communicating data or information in a network environment.

[0116] The user input interface 1020 can receive one or more inputs from a human. The user input interface 1020 can be or include a mouse, a touchpad, a keyboard, a touchscreen, a trackball, a camera, a microphone, a joystick, a game controller, a scanner, and / or any other input device.

[0117] The memory 1030, also termed a "storage," can include or be one or more computer-readable storage media readable by the processor 1040 and that store software. The memory 1030 can be implemented as one storage device or across multiple co-located or distributed storage devices or sub-systems. The memory 1030 can include additional elements, such as a controller, that communicate with the processor 1040. The memory 1030 can also include storage devices and / or sub-systems on which data and / or instructions are stored. The computing device 1000 can access one or more storage resources to access information to carry out any of the processes indicated in this disclosure and, in particular, Figs. 2-5. In various implementations, the memory 1030 stores the program 1035 to execute at least a portion of the algorithms illustrated in Figs. 2-5. Further, the program 1035, when executed by the computing device 1000 generally and / or the processor 1040 specifically, can direct, among other functions, performance of the real mind matching, as described herein.

[0118] The memory 1030 can be or include a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable ROM (PROM), an erasable PROM (EPROM), an electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), a random-access memory (RAM), a dynamic RAM (DRAM), a static RAM (SRAM), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a hard drive, a cache memory, a flash memory, a removable disk, or a tape reel. The memory 1030 can be or include resistive RAM (RRAM) or a magneto-resistive RAM (MRAM). The information being tracked, sent, received, or stored in the computing device can be provided in any database, register, table, cache, queue, control list, or storage structure, based on particular implementations, all of which could be referenced in any suitable timeframe.

[0119] The processor 1040 (e.g., a processing unit) can be or include one or more hardware processors and / or other circuitry that retrieve and execute software, especially the program 1035, from the memory 1030. The processor 1040 can be implemented within one processing device, chip, or package and can also be distributed across multiple processing devices, chips, packages, or sub-systems that cooperate. In some implementations, the processor 1040 is or includes a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) or neural processing unit (NPU).

[0120] The processor 1040 can have any register size, such as a 32-bit register or a 64-bit register, among others. The processor 1040 can include multiple cores. Implementations of the processor 1040 are not limited to any particular number of threads. The processor 1040 can be fabricated by any process technology, such as 14nm process technology.

[0121] The user output interface 1050 outputs information to a human user. The user output interface 1050 can be or include a display (e.g., a screen), a touchscreen, speakers, a printer, or a haptic feedback unit. In many implementations, the user output interface 1050 can be combined with the user input interface 1020. For example, some such implementations include a touchscreen, a headset including headphones and a microphone, or a joystick with haptic feedback.

[0122] In implementations including multiple computing devices, a server of a system or, in a serverless implementation, a peer can use one or more communications networks that facilitate communication among the computing devices to achieve the real mind matching, as outlined herein. For example, the one or more communications networks can include or be a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) that facilitate communication among the computing devices. One or more direct communication links can be included between the computing devices. In addition, in some cases, the computing devices can be installed at geographically distributed locations. In other cases, the multiple computing devices can be installed at one geographic location, such as a server farm or an office.

[0123] As used herein, the terms "storage media" or "computer-readable storage media" can refer to non-transitory storage media, such as non-limiting examples of a hard drive, a memory chip, an ASIC, and cache memory, and to transitory storage media, such as carrier waves or propagating signals.

[0124] Aspects of the system can be implemented in various manners, e.g., as a method, a system, a computer program product, or one or more computer-readable storage media. Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure can take the form of a hardware implementation, a software implementation (including firmware, resident software, or micro-code) or an implementation combining software and hardware aspects that can generally be referred to herein as a "module" or a "system." Functions described in this disclosure can be implemented as an algorithm executed by one or more hardware processing units, e.g., the processor 1040. In various embodiments, different operations and portions of the operations of the algorithms described can be performed by different processing units. In some implementations, the operations can be achieved by reciprocating software executed by a terminal apparatus and a server apparatus. In particular, the program 1035 can be implemented using reciprocating software. Furthermore, aspects of the present disclosure can take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer-readable media having computer-readable program code embodied, e.g., encoded or stored, thereon. In various implementations, such a computer program can, for example, be downloaded (or updated) to existing devices and systems or be stored upon manufacture of these devices and systems.

[0125] Any suitable permutation can be applied to a physical implementation, including the design of the communications network in which the system is implemented. In one embodiment, the bus 1055 can share hardware resources with the memory 1030 and the processor 1040. In this alternative implementation, the computing device 1000 can be provided with separate hardware resources including one or more processors and memory elements.

[0126] In example implementations, various other components of the computing device 1000 can be installed in different physical areas or can be installed as single units.

[0127] The computing device 1o00 can be configured to facilitate communication with machine devices (e.g., vehicle sensors, instruments, electronic control units (ECUs), embedded devices, actuators, displays, etc.) through the bus 1055. Other suitable communication interfaces can also be provided for an Internet Protocol (IP) network, a user datagram protocol (UDP) network, or any other suitable protocol or communication architecture enabling network communication with machine devices.

[0128] The innovations in this detailed description can be implemented in a multitude of different ways, for example, as defined and covered by the claims and / or select examples. In the description, reference is made to the drawings where like reference numerals can indicate identical or functionally similar elements. Elements illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Additionally, certain implementations can include more elements than illustrated in a drawing and / or a subset of the elements illustrated in a drawing. Further, some implementations can incorporate a suitable combination of features from two or more drawings.

[0129] The disclosure describes various illustrative implementations and examples for implementing the features and functionality of the present disclosure. The components, arrangements, and / or features are described in connection with various implementations and are merely examples to simplify the present disclosure and are not intended to be limiting. In the development of actual implementations, implementation-specific decisions can be made to achieve specific goals, including compliance with system, business, and / or legal constraints, which can vary from one implementation to another. Additionally, while such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, it would be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0130] The systems, methods and devices of this disclosure have several innovative aspects, no one of which is solely responsible for the attributes disclosed herein. Some objects or advantages might not be achieved by implementations described herein. Thus, for example, certain implementations can operate in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein and not other objects or advantages as taught or suggested herein.

[0131] In one example implementation, electrical circuits of the drawings can be implemented on a board of an associated electronic device. The board can be a general circuit board that can hold various components of the internal electronic system of the electronic device and, further, provide connectors for other peripherals. More specifically, the board can provide electrical connections by which other components of the system can communicate electrically. Any processors (inclusive of digital signal processors, microprocessors, supporting chipsets, etc.) and computer-readable, non-transitory memory elements can be coupled to the board based on configurations, processing demands, and computer designs. Other components such as external storage, additional sensors, controllers for audio / video display, and peripheral devices can be attached to the board as plug-in cards, via cables, or integrated into the board itself. In various implementations, the functionalities described herein can be implemented in emulation form as software or firmware running within one or more configurable (e.g., programmable) elements arranged in a structure that supports these functions. A non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium can include instructions to allow one or more processors to carry out the emulation.

[0132] In another example implementation, the electrical circuits of the drawings can be implemented as stand-alone modules (e.g., a device with associated components and circuitry configured to perform a specific application or function) or implemented as plug-in modules into application specific hardware of electronic devices. Implementations of the present disclosure can be readily included in a system-on-chip (SOC) package. An SOC represents an integrated circuit (IC) that integrates components of a computer or other electronic system into one chip. The SOC can contain digital, analog, mixed-signal, and often radio frequency functions on one chip substrate. Other implementations can include a multi-chip-module (MCM), with a plurality of separate ICs located within one electronic package and that interact through the electronic package. In various other implementations, the processors can be implemented in one or more silicon cores in Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), programmable array logic (PAL), generic array logic (GAL), and other semiconductor chips.

[0133] The specifications, dimensions, and relationships outlined herein (e.g., the number of processors and logic operations) have been offered for non-limiting purposes of example and teaching. For example, various modifications and changes can be made to the arrangements of components. The description and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative sense, not in a restrictive sense.

[0134] The numerous examples provided herein described interaction in terms of two, three, or more electrical components for purposes of clarity and example. The computing device or a system including the computing device can be consolidated in any manner. Along similar design alternatives, the illustrated components, modules, and elements of the drawings can be combined in various possible configurations within the scope of this disclosure. In certain cases, one or more of the functionalities of a given set of flows might be more clearly described by referencing a limited number of electrical elements. The electrical circuits of the drawings are readily scalable and can accommodate many components, as well as more complicated / sophisticated arrangements and configurations. Accordingly, the provided examples do not limit the scope or inhibit the teachings of the electrical circuits as potentially applied to a myriad of other architectures.

[0135] In this disclosure, references to various features (e.g., elements, structures, modules, components, steps, operations, characteristics, etc.) included in "one implementation," "example implementation," "an implementation," "another implementation," "some implementations," "various implementations," "other implementations," "alternative implementation," and the like are intended to mean that any such features can be included in one or more implementations of the present disclosure and might or might not necessarily be combined in the same implementations. Some operations can be deleted or omitted where appropriate, or these operations can be modified or changed considerably. In addition, the timing of these operations can be altered considerably. The preceding operational flows have been offered for purposes of example and discussion. Implementations described herein provide flexibility in that any suitable arrangements, chronologies, configurations, and timing mechanisms can be provided.

[0136] Examples In Example M1, a method includes receiving an answer selection indicating a respective response of a plurality of responses to a plurality of questions on an online dating service, the answer selection associated with a terminal apparatus of a seeker; determining to show at least a portion of a profile of a target on the online dating service to the seeker; causing a determination of a number of compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses; and causing a display, on the terminal apparatus of the seeker, of at least the portion of the profile of the target and the number of compatible answers.

[0137] Example M2 is the method of Example M1, further comprising: receiving a login request indicating a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker; transmitting a theme request for a plurality of respective themes of the plurality of questions, the theme request at least in part based on the network location; receiving a theme selection indicating a theme of the plurality of themes; determining a first question of the plurality of questions, at least in part based on the theme; and transmitting the first question, at least in part based on the network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

[0138] Example M3 is the method of any of Example M1 or Example M2, further comprising: receiving a login request indicating a terminal apparatus of the target; and receiving a target answer selection of one of the compatible answers to a first question of the plurality of questions, the target answer selection associated with the terminal apparatus of the target.

[0139] Example M4 is the method of any of Examples M1-M3, wherein the display does not display a response of the target to the plurality of questions.

[0140] Example M5 is the method of any of Examples M1-M4, wherein the portion of the profile of the target is determined to be shown to the seeker, at least in part based on a profile of the seeker on the online dating service and the profile of the target.

[0141] Example M6 is the method of any of Examples M1-M5, further comprising: receiving a like of the target, the like associated with the terminal apparatus of the seeker; determining the compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses and a determination whether there is a mutual like between the target and the seeker; and transmitting an answer reveal, at least in part based on the compatible answers and a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

[0142] Example M7 is the method of any of Examples M1-M6, further comprising: determining the compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses and a determination whether the seeker has access to a premium feature; and transmitting an answer reveal, at least in part based on the compatible answers and a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

[0143] In Example A1, an apparatus includes a network interface that receives an answer selection indicating a respective response of a plurality of responses to a plurality of questions on an online dating service, the answer selection associated with a terminal apparatus of a seeker; and a processor configured to determine to show at least a portion of a profile of a target on the online dating service to the seeker, and to cause a determination of a number of compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses, wherein at least the portion of the profile of the target and the number of compatible answers is to be displayed on the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

[0144] Example A2 is the apparatus of Example A1, wherein the network interface receives a login request indicating a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker, transmits a theme request for a plurality of respective themes of the plurality of questions, the theme request at least in part based on the network location, and receives a theme selection indicating a theme of the plurality of themes, the processor is further configured to determine a first question of the plurality of questions, at least in part based on the theme, and the network interface transmits the first question, at least in part based on the network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

[0145] Example A3 is the apparatus of any of Example A1 or Example A2, wherein the network interface receives a login request indicating a terminal apparatus of the target and receives a target answer selection of one of the compatible answers to a first question of the plurality of questions, the target answer selection associated with the terminal apparatus of the target.

[0146] Example A4 is the apparatus of any of Examples A1-A3, wherein the terminal apparatus does not display a response of the target to the plurality of questions.

[0147] Example A5 is the apparatus of any of Examples A1-A4, wherein the portion of the profile of the target is determined to be shown to the seeker, at least in part based on a profile of the seeker on the online dating service and the profile of the target.

[0148] Example A6 is the apparatus of any of Examples A1-A5, wherein the network interface receives a like of the target, the like associated with the terminal apparatus of the seeker, the processor is further configured to determine the compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses and a determination whether there is a mutual like between the target and the seeker, and the network interface transmits an answer reveal, at least in part based on the compatible answers and the network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

[0149] Example A7 is the apparatus of any of Examples A1-A6, wherein the processor is further configured to determine the compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses and a determination whether the seeker has access to a premium feature, and the network interface transmits an answer reveal, at least in part based on the compatible answers and a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

[0150] In Example C1, a computer-readable medium is encoded with instructions that, when executed by a processor of a computing device, cause the computing device to perform operations. The operations comprise receiving an answer selection indicating a respective response of a plurality of responses to a plurality of questions on an online dating service, the answer selection associated with a terminal apparatus of a seeker; determining to show at least a portion of a profile of a target on the online dating service to the seeker; causing a determination of a number of compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses; and causing a display, on the terminal apparatus of the seeker, of at least the portion of the profile of the target and the number of compatible answers.

[0151] Example C2 is the medium of Example C1, the operations further comprising: receiving a login request indicating a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker; transmitting a theme request for a plurality of respective themes of the plurality of questions, the theme request at least in part based on the network location; receiving a theme selection indicating a theme of the plurality of themes; determining a first question of the plurality of questions, at least in part based on the theme; and transmitting the first question, at least in part based on the network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

[0152] Example C3 is the medium of any of Example C1 or Example C2, the operations further comprising: receiving a login request indicating a terminal apparatus of the target; and receiving a target answer selection of one of the compatible answers to a first question of the plurality of questions, the target answer selection associated with the terminal apparatus of the target.

[0153] Example C4 is the medium of any of Examples C1-C3, wherein the display does not display a response of the target to the plurality of questions.

[0154] Example C5 is the medium of any of Examples C1-C4, wherein the portion of the profile of the target is determined to be shown to the seeker, at least in part based on a profile of the seeker on the online dating service and the profile of the target.

[0155] Example C6 is the medium of any of Examples C1-C5, the operations further comprising: receiving a like of the target, the like associated with the terminal apparatus of the seeker; determining the compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses and a determination whether there is a mutual like between the target and the seeker; and transmitting an answer reveal, at least in part based on the compatible answers and a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

[0156] Example C7 is the medium of any of Examples C1-C6, the operations further comprising: determining the compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses and a determination whether the seeker has access to a premium feature; and transmitting an answer reveal, at least in part based on the compatible answers and a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

Claims

1. A method, comprising: receiving an answer selection indicating a respective response of a plurality of responses to a plurality of questions on an online dating service, the answer selection associated with a terminal apparatus of a seeker; determining to show at least a portion of a profile of a target on the online dating service to the seeker; causing a determination of a number of compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses; and causing a display, on the terminal apparatus of the seeker, of at least the portion of the profile of the target and the number of compatible answers.

2. The method of Claim 1, further comprising: receiving a login request indicating a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker; transmitting a theme request for a plurality of respective themes of the plurality of questions, the theme request at least in part based on the network location; receiving a theme selection indicating a theme of the plurality of themes; determining a first question of the plurality of questions, at least in part based on the theme; and transmitting the first question, at least in part based on the network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

3. The method of any of Claim 1 or Claim 2, further comprising: receiving a login request indicating a terminal apparatus of the target; and receiving a target answer selection of one of the compatible answers to a first question of the plurality of questions, the target answer selection associated with the terminal apparatus of the target.

4. The method of any of Claims 1-3, wherein the display does not display a response of the target to the plurality of questions.

5. The method of any of Claims 1-4, wherein the portion of the profile of the target is determined to be shown to the seeker, at least in part based on a profile of the seeker on the online dating service and the profile of the target.

6. The method of any of Claims 1-5, further comprising: receiving a like of the target, the like associated with the terminal apparatus of the seeker; determining the compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses and a determination whether there is a mutual like between the target and the seeker; and transmitting an answer reveal, at least in part based on the compatible answers and a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

7. The method of any of Claims 1-6, further comprising: determining the compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses and a determination whether the seeker has access to a premium feature; and transmitting an answer reveal, at least in part based on the compatible answers and a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

8. An apparatus, comprising: a network interface that receives an answer selection indicating a respective response of a plurality of responses to a plurality of questions on an online dating service, the answer selection associated with a terminal apparatus of a seeker; and a processor configured to determine to show at least a portion of a profile of a target on the online dating service to the seeker, and to cause a determination of a number of compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses, wherein at least the portion of the profile of the target and the number of compatible answers is to be displayed on the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

9. The apparatus of Claim 8, wherein the network interface receives a login request indicating a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker, transmits a theme request for a plurality of respective themes of the plurality of questions, the theme request at least in part based on the network location, and receives a theme selection indicating a theme of the plurality of themes, the processor is further configured to determine a first question of the plurality of questions, at least in part based on the theme, and the network interface transmits the first question, at least in part based on the network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

10. The apparatus of any of Claim 8 or Claim 9, wherein the network interface receives a login request indicating a terminal apparatus of the target and receives a target answer selection of one of the compatible answers to a first question of the plurality of questions, the target answer selection associated with the terminal apparatus of the target.

11. The apparatus of any of Claims 8-10, wherein the terminal apparatus does not display a response of the target to the plurality of questions.

12. The apparatus of any of Claims 8-11, wherein the portion of the profile of the target is determined to be shown to the seeker, at least in part based on a profile of the seeker on the online dating service and the profile of the target.

13. The apparatus of any of Claims 8-12, wherein the network interface receives a like of the target, the like associated with the terminal apparatus of the seeker, the processor is further configured to determine the compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses and a determination whether there is a mutual like between the target and the seeker, and the network interface transmits an answer reveal, at least in part based on the compatible answers and the network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

14. The apparatus of any of Claims 8-13, wherein the processor is further configured to determine the compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses and a determination whether the seeker has access to a premium feature, and the network interface transmits an answer reveal, at least in part based on the compatible answers and a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

15. A computer-readable medium encoded with instructions that, when executed by a processor of a computing device, cause the computing device to perform operations comprising: receiving an answer selection indicating a respective response of a plurality of responses to a plurality of questions on an online dating service, the answer selection associated with a terminal apparatus of a seeker; determining to show at least a portion of a profile of a target on the online dating service to the seeker; causing a determination of a number of compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses; and causing a display, on the terminal apparatus of the seeker, of at least the portion of the profile of the target and the number of compatible answers.

16. The medium of Claim 15, the operations further comprising: receiving a login request indicating a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker; transmitting a theme request for a plurality of respective themes of the plurality of questions, the theme request at least in part based on the network location; receiving a theme selection indicating a theme of the plurality of themes; determining a first question of the plurality of questions, at least in part based on the theme; and transmitting the first question, at least in part based on the network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

17. The medium of any of Claim 15 or Claim 16, the operations further comprising: receiving a login request indicating a terminal apparatus of the target; and receiving a target answer selection of one of the compatible answers to a first question of the plurality of questions, the target answer selection associated with the terminal apparatus of the target.

18. The medium of any of Claims 15-17, wherein the portion of the profile of the target is determined to be shown to the seeker, at least in part based on a profile of the seeker on the online dating service and the profile of the target.

19. The medium of any of Claims 15-18, the operations further comprising: receiving a like of the target, the like associated with the terminal apparatus of the seeker; determining the compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses and a determination whether there is a mutual like between the target and the seeker; and transmitting an answer reveal, at least in part based on the compatible answers and a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

20. The medium of any of Claims 15-19, the operations further comprising: determining the compatible answers of the target, at least in part based on the plurality of responses and a determination whether the seeker has access to a premium feature; and transmitting an answer reveal, at least in part based on the compatible answers and a network location of the terminal apparatus of the seeker.

Images