Tinder just launched a group dating option in Australia

No need to call your friends for a debrief after a particularly bad Tinder date -- now you can just bring them along.

The insanely popular dating app just launched a new feature, Tinder Social, on Wednesday local time. It's a new function that allows you and your friends to create a group on the platform, which can then match with other groups looking for a night out. 

Tinder Social is currently being tested with a small group of lucky love hunters in Australia, although the company said in a blog post it hopes to roll it out globally. Mashable has reached out to Tinder for comment. 

When using the app in "group mode," you can swipe through groups just like you would normally with individuals, as well as flick through the profiles of people in the groups. If you see an appealing group of friends and they like you back, you can then chat and make plans for meeting up. 

You can also indicate what your group's plans for the night are, to make it clear you're just up for bowling or a complete rager. The group expires after 48 hours, and of course, your friends must be on Tinder, too.

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

A group date doesn't always end well romantically for all concerned. Perhaps this move is simply an indication the platform is trying to become a medium for extending your social scene, as well as the dating pool.

"It's a way to go places full of people you’ve already matched with, making socializing so much easier once you’re out and about," the company said. "Whether you’re looking for groups you share common interests with, or you’re looking for a completely new adventure, Tinder Social is a better way to go out with friends."

One lucky Mashable Australia reporter has access to the Tinder Social pilot, so we'll let you know if it works or whether it's just a messy waste of time.

Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.