Since it’s introduction in 2009 Google’s URL shortener has been utilized by in various ways. Many use it according to its purpose and that is to shorten long URL’s. Note that sharing a very long URL could be confusing and let’s be honest it doesn’t look as presentable as that of a shortened URL. Sadly, this is all going to end starting next month with it’s full retirement in 2019.
What will happen to my shortened links?
For those who have used the service since 2009, doesn’t have to worry, this is because the existing shortened URLs will still work. So that is good news for you who have been using goo.gl. According to the blog post announcement by Michael Hermanto a Firebase Software engineer “To refocus our efforts, we’re turning down support for goo.gl over the coming weeks and replacing it with Firebase Dynamic Links (FDL). FDLs are smart URLs that allow you to send existing and potential users to any location within an iOS, Android or web app.”
Implication
Well the message is clear, as early as now we should already wean ourselves off using goo.gl URL shortener and start learning Firebase Dynamic Links.
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