New “anti-algorithm” gay dating app Goose is here

A new gay dating app is soon to enter this crowded world: Goose.

Its founder, Derek Chadwick, is a model, actor, and founder of Chadi Cosmetics. He mocked the app on Instagram in May with a selfie video in which he lamented, “Why won’t there be a cool gay dating app in 2026?” Last week, he posted a photo declaring it’s “Summer of the Goose Boys.”

Goose declares itself to be an “anti-algorithm gay dating and lifestyle platform,” according to information sent to Mashable. The tagline is “For boys” and the target audience is clear.

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The app is “intentionally social-first” and offers something different from dating-focused competitors like Grindr and Sniffies. Goose also promises a “curated community” and will have an app-based membership reminiscent of “exclusive” dating apps like Raya.

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“This encourages men to date for how they really live, without swiping. This comes from the heart of someone who’s been there and wanted to get better,” an email to Mashable said. Goose has no matches. However, users can “wave” at each other, and once they both do that, they are connected. However, you don’t have to connect to be matched. Users can match with anyone by waving their hands to show interest.

Goose displays a live map of people’s locations so users can find out who’s around them. But you can also scroll through and meet new people. Profile includes photos, videos, and continuous updates. You also don’t have to tell us what you’re looking for in advance. Chats can disappear as well, and screenshots appear to be protected, but the information sent to Mashable is vague.

Goose doesn’t seem to be in the App Store yet and doesn’t have a website, but an Instagram account has appeared and already has 12,000 followers at the time of publication.

News of Goose’s launch comes on the heels of the announcement that Match Group’s “intentionally” gay dating app Archer will be shutting down on June 17th.