Google is Shutting down its URL Shortener Service

Google is bringing down its very popular URL Shortener service “goo.gl“, starting next month. The Url shortener launched in 2009 will be completely depreciated by next year. However, existing links will continue to work until March 30, 2019. Google wants developers to switch over to Firebase dynamic links which possess greater abilities against “goo.gl” service.

The shortener service will be available for existing users. The complete support will end in March 2019. Whereas, users who have never used Googles’s shortener service will no longer be able to reach the service console. The existing users will still be able to use all the features that the “goo.gl” console offers until google completely shuts down the service on March 30, 2019.

For normal users who just want to shorten their links and URL’s, there are bitly and Owl.ly as suggested by Google. Google notes “all links will continue to redirect to the intended destination” even after 2019, with users also able to export link information from the console.

Google is encouraging developers to use Firebase Dynamic Links that have some added advantages. Firebase Dynamic Links are smart links which can redirect users based on the OS they are using. FDL’s can open apps or even remember the content you are trying to view even after you have installed the app relevant to the particular link.

Google’s Words:

In a blog post on Friday, Michael Hermanto, Software Engineer, Firebase, said, “Many popular URL shortening services have emerged and the ways people find content on the Internet have also changed dramatically, from primarily desktop web pages to apps, mobile devices, home assistants, and more.”

Google said:

URL Shortener has been a great tool that we’re proud to have built. As we look towards the future, we’re excited about the possibilities of Firebase Dynamic Links, particularly when it comes to dynamic platform detection and links that survive the app installation process. We hope you are too!