The Google URL Shortener, a widely used tool for condensing lengthy URLs into shareable links, has been officially set for deprecation. The company announced this phase-out back in 2018, and last year confirmed that the shortened links would cease to be operational starting next month.
Google URL Shortener Deprecation
In a blog posted in July 2024, Google informed users that goo.gl links would now include an interstitial page. This page will prompt users with information about the impending termination of link support, ahead of the scheduled shutdown date. The tech giant specified that after August 25, 2025, these links will no longer function.
Consequently, any links created using Google’s shortening service will become inactive exactly one month from now. Developers utilizing these links will need to seek alternatives, as stated by the company.
Since its closure to new link generation in 2018, Google has allowed existing URLs to remain operational. To facilitate a smoother transition away from this service, the company provided a one-year grace period last year for users to migrate to other URL shortening options.
Post-August 25, attempting to access a page through a shortened link will yield a 404 error. The rationale behind this phase-out includes the significant decline in traffic to shortened URLs over time. Google noted that during June 2024, a staggering 99 percent of these links saw no activity.
In place of the Google URL Shortener, the company has introduced Firebase Dynamic Links (FDL), described as “smart URLs” that enable users to navigate to specific locations within mobile and web applications.
Despite the deprecation, certain services will remain unaffected. Google confirmed that goo.gl links created through its apps, such as Maps for sharing locations, will continue to function even after the August 25 deadline.
