Sam Altman backs 'video-first' dating app Curtn - Tech Crunch. As the quarantine dramatically transforms social and romantic lives, a new dating app advised by Grindr founder Joel Simkhai and former YC chief Sam Altman is aiming to capitalize on the skyrocketing popularity of video chat. CEO Brenden Strauss hopes his NYC-based startup Curtn can approach video calling in a mindful way during a time when so many people are sheltering in place and significantly cutting back on social interactions.
video chat can offer a temporary alternative for users that might otherwise meet up in the real world for a first date. Most of the major dating apps have had a complicated relationship with rich media over the past several years, moving away from sending pics or videos in favor of sidestepping….