Google To Discontinue Goo.gle URL Shortener (goo.gl) – Moving to Firebase Dynamic Links
Withering of the old and emergence of the new is the way of life. Be it human life or technology, this eternal rule is being followed everywhere. Now, it is Google that is walking through this path of transition from old technology to a new one. On Friday, Google announced the withdrawal of their support from URL shortening service named Goo.gle URL Shortener (goo.gl) . Instead they want to focus on Firebase Dynamic Link (FDL). This decision will come into effect from April 13, 2018 when people will not be able to avail the service from Goo.gl if you have not used Goo.gl service within 31 March, 2018.
Google URL Shortner (goo.gl) will be continued till March, 2019, when existing users may create and export shortened URLs. This decision was made to favor a new technology termed Firebase Dynamic Link (FDL.) FDL can redirect users to any particular location from both desktop and applications (web and mobile.) Its support for iOS and Android devices will surely attract developers. Now, we will know in brief about URL shortening and Firebase Dynamic Link.
Google URL Shortner (goo.gl) or URL Shortening:
Universal Resource Locator or URL is basically a web address that suggests the location of a resource and a way to retrieve it. Shortening a URL means making the URL concise yet keeping it fully functional so that it can redirect users to the right destination. URL shortening is usually done for the convenience of users who are copying it from any printed form. It also helps to disguise the original address. In places like Twitter and text messages where a limited number of characters are accepted, shortened URL comes handy. Besides all these, it also beautifies the lengthy standard URLs.
Firebase Dynamics Link:
FDL or Firebase Dynamic Link is a new technology introduced by Google to ensure best user experience based on user platform. FDL has the ability to automatically detect which platform is being used to access the URL. It will then act accordingly and redirect the user either to web page or to the mobile app based on their platform. If a particular FDL is opened in a web browser, it will redirect user to the relevant web page content. If the same link is accessed from a mobile device, it will take the user to the content of the relevant app.
FDL will not face much trouble after application installation, so any new user can find what they need effortlessly. When an FDL is opened on mobile device that does not have the app installed, users will be prompted to install the app (unless specified otherwise). Once they install it, the app will take them straight to the content they wanted to access. Another benefit of using Firebase Dynamics Link is its security. Shortened URLs have been reported to be more vulnerable against security risks compared to the standard URLs. However, FDL is equipped with stronger security measures.
Reasons for the Decision to To Discontinue Goo.gle URL Shortener (goo.gl)
The changing mode of web access seems to be responsible for such decision. Google URL Shortner (goo.gl) started functioning in 2009, when most people used to access internet through web browsers of desktop computer. Now it has been changed into smartphones, tablets, applications and personal digital assistants (PDA.) This has given rise to the need for new technology that can meet the latest web access related requirements. FDL is expected to replace Goo.gl and provide enhanced facilities. Besides, other URL shortening services have gained more popularity by surpassing Goo.gl. It can be presumed that this fact has also triggered Google to stop their URL shortening service.
However, users must not worry about Google’s decision to discontinue Google URL Shortner (goo.gl). Google will not make all of their shortened URLs vanish all of a sudden. The good news is that the existing URL will not get suspended by Google. It will only prohibit users from creating any more new ones. Google will also not allow shortened URLs to be migrated into FDL console. This strict step has been taken to make people get habituated with Firebase Dynamic Links. In case users still want to continue creating shortened URL, they can opt for other URL shortening services like Bit.ly or Ow.ly.