Quick Pitch: WinkVid is a new way to meet singles in your area using live, one-to-one video chat. Join online events, called WinkUps, and meet 10-20 local singles in 1 night.
Genius Idea: WinkVid resembles an in-person speed dating service, but you can participate from the comfort and safety of your living room. It's a bit like Chatroulette, but without the naked creepsters (one hopes) and with an aim at establishing real connections between people. It's set up to be a bit less random than something like MyChanceRomance, too.
After you create an account (it's easy to do thanks to Facebook Connect), you can sign up for a "WinkUp," a one-hour speed dating event that places you in four-minute video conversations with at least 10 singles in your area.
The event takes place at a specific time — 8 p.m. CT on May 23, for example. Just log in before the event starts and make sure your camera is working, and you'll get connected with your potential matches.
After each video chat, you can choose whether or not you'd like to follow up with your match. If you both say yes, you'll have the opportunity to contact one another to talk more or arrange a real date.
Participation in each WinkUp will cost $19.99 through PayPal — less than you're likely to spend on an in-person speed dating event — but it's free while the site is in its infancy. If you get cold feet or meet someone you want to be exclusive with before the event starts, you can cancel your registration and get your money back as long as you make the move at least 24 hours in advance.
Now here's the fine print: WinkVid currently only offers WinkUps in the Chicago area, but expansion to more cities is planned. Also, only straight WinkUps have been hosted so far, though we're betting that will change too as the site moves beyond its launch and testing phases.
The idea is that WinkVid is an alternative to inaccurate profile pages and intimidating or expensive in-person speed dating meetups. Does it sound like something you'd participate in? Let us know in the comments.
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