Abstract: A system and method are directed towards enabling a user to track the status of communication with other users in an online dating environment. Each user in the online dating environment can predefine a current status of availability and/or interest in receiving communications from other users in the online dating environment. When a communication is received, a predefined message is returned indicating the predefined status, such as “currently dating someone.” In addition or alternatively, each user can provide an interim response to received communications, giving the requesters some indication of a level of interest in further communication. An interim response can include a request for additional information about potential suitor, an indication that more time is required to think about a dating request, an indication that a user is definitely, or definitely not, interested in further communication. Requests and responses can be communicated via email, IM, SMS, or other forms.

Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus are directed towards enhancing an online dating service experience by enabling a subscriber to the service to provide an online dating testimonial from a friend, family member, companion, and the like, to another subscriber. The invention further enables the subscriber to tell a date how they may feel about the date in a non-email format. In one embodiment, the subscriber may select from a list of predefined online dating messages. The subscriber may also modify the predefined online dating message before sending to the date.