soft launch

Noun

soft launch (plural soft launches)

1. The launch of a missile in such a way that the rocket motor ignites outside of the launch tube, ejecting the missile non-explosively.
2. The release of a product or service (particularly software) to a limited audience, often in order to gain data on the product's usage and acceptance by customers.

   Synonyms:

   soft opening, soft release

3. (Internet, informal, transitive) The subtle or ambiguous announcement of a romantic relationship, often via social media.
   • Ms. Wright, who has done a soft launch on Instagram, shared that a healthy dose of mystery could be a good thing.2022 October 6, Laura Pitcher, “Is a ‘Soft Launch’ Right for Your Relationship?”, in The New York Times