What to do when there is no longer a Google URL Shortener
If you are a frequent, or even sometimes, user of the popular Google URL shortener, then you have seen the sign….
It’s being discontinued starting March 30, 2019! As of a few weeks ago, you can’t create links at all if you are an anonymous user or a new user. We can take a deep breath because that gives us about a year to find an alternative. We use it often to make easier to share links and to track analytics. It’s a part of our daily lives. Fortunately, Google has provided us some starting points to help us out. Check out their blog for more info but here are some replacement options.
1. Firebase Dynamic Links
Dynamic Links are smart URLs that allow you to send existing and potential users to any location within your iOS or Android app. They survive the app install process, so even new users see the content they’re looking for when they open the app for the first time. Dynamic Links can help migrate users from your website to your mobile app. There is a range of pricing available, including a FREE option.
2. Bitly
Bitly is one of the most popular link shortening services. It allows for custom domains so you can brand your shortened link. Bitly also allows you to customize the actual shortened link (if your customization is still available). There are FREE and paid plan options.
Bitly is one of the shorteners available at the multitasking Buffer. They provide link shortening, analytics services and image descriptions for accessibility.
3. Ow.ly
Ow.ly is a link shortener service included with Hootsuite. There are FREE and paid plan options here as well. Hootsuite is already a great option for scheduling, monitoring, analytics, security and more, across social networks.
We certainly don’t want to be caught without our link shortening and analytics service but this has also opened our eyes to other benefits available. We’re excited to move on now! Hopefully this is a helpful resource for you as well.
If you have ideas or info you would like to share or comment on, we would love the input.