Google URL Shortener to Disable Goo.gl Links Starting August 25
Google’s URL Shortener, once a popular tool for condensing lengthy web addresses, is set to be fully deprecated next month. Originally announced in 2018, the service will cease to function for existing links on August 25, 2025. Users and developers who have relied on the goo.gl links will soon find that these shortened URLs will no longer direct to their intended destinations, marking the end of an era for the widely used service.
Details of the Deprecation Announcement
In a blog post released in July 2024, Google confirmed that links shortened through the Google URL Shortener would soon feature an interstitial page. This page will appear before users are redirected to the original URL, serving as a notification about the impending shutdown. The company emphasized that after August 25, 2025, these links will no longer be supported, resulting in a 404 error when users attempt to access them. This change affects all users who have previously utilized the service, particularly developers who have integrated these links into their applications.
Despite ceasing the creation of new shortened links in 2018, Google continued to maintain existing URLs until now. Last year, the tech giant provided a one-year grace period to help users transition to alternative URL shortening services. As the deadline approaches, users are urged to update their links to avoid disruptions.
Reasons Behind the Shutdown
Google’s decision to deprecate the URL Shortener stems from a significant decline in usage. The company reported that 99 percent of goo.gl links recorded no activity during June 2024. This drop in traffic prompted Google to shift its focus to Firebase Dynamic Links (FDL), which are designed to be “smart URLs.” These new links allow users to navigate directly to specific locations within mobile applications or web platforms, offering a more versatile solution for sharing content.
The transition to FDL represents a strategic move by Google to enhance user experience and adapt to changing digital behaviors. By replacing the outdated URL Shortener with a more advanced system, Google aims to provide users with better tools for sharing and accessing content.
Exemptions and Future of Link Sharing
While the majority of goo.gl links will become inactive after the deprecation date, Google has announced that certain services will remain unaffected. Specifically, links generated through Google applications, such as Maps for location sharing, will continue to function even after August 25, 2025. This exemption ensures that users can still share essential location information without interruption.
As the deadline approaches, users are encouraged to review their reliance on the Google URL Shortener and consider alternative options for link management. With the rise of new technologies and services, adapting to these changes will be crucial for maintaining effective communication and sharing in the digital landscape.
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