The song was teased two weeks prior to its release, which coincided with the announcement of a United States concert tour that was ultimately cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"About Love" received generally favourable reviews from music critics; it was called catchy and labelled by some as a highlight of the To All the Boys: P.S.

In 2019, Marina entered a new era in her career, beginning by dropping "and the Diamonds" from her stage name and releasing her fourth studio album, Love + Fear.

[3][4] Following its release in April 2019, Love + Fear received significant hype and attention due to Marina's extended four-year hiatus.

[13] Marina had previously collaborated with Captain Cuts on Love + Fear, with them contributing production to the single "Superstar".

[17] Alongside the commercial release of the single, Marina announced additional touring dates in the United States, scheduled throughout April 2020.

[20] Furthermore, a promotional CD single, intended to receive radio airplay, was distributed throughout the Benelux region of Europe by the Universal Music Group.

[13] Marina's boyfriend Jack Patterson, of British group Clean Bandit, served as the track's vocal producer.

[25] Prior to the release of "About Love", Mike Wass from Idolator wrote in anticipation of the single: "Of the previously unheard tracks, pop fans will be most excited by the prospect of new Marina.

Mike Nied, also a writer for Idolator, wrote a favorable review of the song, stating that: "If this is a hint of what to expect on her fifth album, then we're in for a serious treat".

[26] On 1 October of the same year, it was announced that "About Love" was nominated for Best Soundtrack Song at the 46th annual People's Choice Awards.