Dialog Lab
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HomeSupportUsing the App

Starting a Discussion

Get matched, find a partner, and open your first chat.

Before you start

Make sure you have:

  1. Completed Quick Start setup.
  2. Marked at least one topic in the Topics tab — where the app opens after onboarding.

You need at least one marked topic before you can get matched.

Get matched

From the Convos tab

  1. Tap Express Match on the Convos hero card.
  2. Dialog Lab begins searching for a partner with an opposing view on a shared topic.
  3. While you wait, the card updates to show your search status. You can add more topics or choose to be notified when a match is found.

The Convos tab also highlights your active conversations when you have chats underway, so you can jump back in quickly.

Ready to match
Still looking
Active conversations

From a topic

You can also start matching on a specific topic from its Topic Detail Page. Dialog Lab will search for someone with the opposite stance on that issue.

See Matchmaking for a deeper look at waiting states and notifications.

Wait time expectations Match wait times depend on how many people are online and looking. When fewer users are available, a search can take longer — keep notifications on and leave matching running if you can.

When a match is found

You will see a match preview showing the topic and each person’s stance — for example, “You supported this” or “You opposed this.” A short countdown gives you time to prepare before the chat opens.

Match preview
Do not miss your match If notifications are enabled, Dialog Lab can alert you even when the app is in the background. If you denied notification permission, you will need to keep the app open while searching.

Opening the chat

When the countdown finishes, you are taken directly into the conversation — no extra tap required. The AI moderator sends an opening message that:

  • Sets ground rules for the discussion.
  • Names who supports and who opposes the topic.
AI moderator opens the chat

You will then be prompted to share what you hope to get out of the conversation and why you hold your view — your opening statement. Take your time. Your partner may still be composing theirs.

When your partner completes their opening statement, you will see a nudge: “Your partner completed their opening statement. Share yours when you’re ready.”

During the conversation

  • Reply thoughtfully and stay focused on ideas, not personal attacks.
  • The AI moderator may send reminders visible to both of you, or block messages that are deemed abusive.
  • You can Pause or End the conversation from the chat menu at any time.

Learn more in Moderation and Ending a Discussion.