RIP, goo.gl. You will be missed.
Google has announced that it’s shutting down its URL shortening service goo.gl, stopping submissions by accounts created from April 1 on April 13 and disbanding the platform for all other customers on March 30 2019. Don’t panic, though: shortened links will continue to redirect after access to the console is shut off.
“To refocus our efforts, we’re turning down support for goo.gl over the coming weeks and replacing it with Firebase Dynamic Links (FDL),” explained Google in a post on its Developers blog. “FDLs are smart URLs that allow you to send existing and potential users to any location within an iOS, Android or web application.”
Google has recommended that all goo.gl users migrate to another URL shortening service by the time March 30 swings around, which could be a daunting prospect for those who’ve been loyal to the platform since its inception. There are a number of fantastic alternatives available, though, including Bitly and TinyURL.
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We’d suggest going with the former as it’s not only the most-recognised URL shortener out there, but also the most well-rounded, offering customers access to a slew of useful features, such as the option to: take advantage of custom URLs, create deep links optimised for mobile and utilise a real-time analytics dashboard.
Do you think Google made a good decision killing off its URL shortening service? Let us know over on Facebook or Twitter @TrustedReviews.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.