June 1, 2024

Overview

Lynkx is an innovative dating application designed for Android and iOS, where users define their preferences by repeatedly choosing between two images. The system then builds a profile type based on these visual choices, both for the user and the type of person they are looking for. This allows the app to suggest highly relevant matches in a fun and intuitive way. This project was developed as part of a university course in software development and mobile applications. The goal was to explore alternative, privacy-focused ways of online matching, moving away from traditional text-based profiles.

Core Features

• Image-Based Matching: Users define their personality and preferences by choosing between pairs of images.
• Profile Setup: Users create and configure their profile with details and image choices.
• Search & Match System: Based on image matching and preference alignment.
• Chat System: Once matched, users can start secure conversations.
• Notification System: Real-time notifications for new matches and messages.

Security & Data Privacy

• GDPR-Compliant: Full compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
• Encrypted Data: All personal information and chat data are encrypted.
• Privacy-First Design: No unnecessary data collection; users control what they share.

Technologies Used

• React Native: For cross-platform mobile development (Android & iOS).
• Firebase: For authentication, real-time database, and notifications.
• Node.js / Express: Backend server for logic and data processing.
• MongoDB: For structured user data and match history.

Usage Flow

1. Sign Up: Users register via email or social login.
2. Profile Configuration: Upload a photo, basic info, and make image-based choices.
3. Preference Definition: Choose what you’re looking for using the same visual method.
4. Matching & Messaging: Get match suggestions and start conversations.
5. Stay Notified: Receive match and message alerts in real time.

Challenges & Lessons Learned

The biggest challenge was designing a meaningful image-based matching algorithm that remains light, responsive, and relevant. Also, ensuring compliance with GDPR and implementing end-to-end encrypted chat required strong attention to privacy and legal constraints. We learned how to balance innovation, performance, and ethics in mobile app development. The project was also a great experience in team collaboration and full-stack architecture.

Outcome

Lynkx provides a refreshing and privacy-conscious take on online dating. By focusing on visual interaction and secure architecture, it delivers a smooth and personalized experience that sets it apart from conventional platforms.

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This project demonstrates your creativity, full-stack mobile skills, and ability to develop secure user-centric applications.