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These are the best alternatives to Google’s goo.gl URL shortener

Google has announced that it has begun shutting down its URL shortener goo.gl. Here are the best alternatives to that let you shorten your links as well as track different types of data…

Best alternatives to Google’s URL shortener

  1. Bit.ly
  2. Ow.ly
  3. Firebase

1. Bit.ly

Bit.ly is probably one of the most popular URL shorteners on the market. Once you have an account, creating a short link is as easy as clicking on the Create Bitlink button. After, just paste your long URL into the interface.

Before you’re done, you can categorize your links by adding a tag, renaming the item to better identify it, and customize the short URL itself. When done, you can click on save and copy the URL to your clipboard.

What makes Bit.ly even more useful is the ability to use branded domains with Bit.ly. For example, I purchased the jaduino.me domain and after it was linked with Bit.ly, it became my shortened URL.

Sign up for a bit.ly account here

2. Ow.ly

Ow.ly is another excellent alternative ran by the popular HootSuite platform. While you can use ow.ly just to shorten links and track essential data like with bit.ly, you can use the tool along with HootSuite’s social media sharing services.

Sign up for an ow.ly account here

3. Firebase

Firebase is Google’s mobile platform for developers to use to help make apps. This is the option the company suggests developers use if they want to create short links within apps.

Once implemented, developers will be able to automatically see detailed information about how many clicks a link received, what types of devices it was shown on, and more.

Learn more about Firebase’s dynamic links here


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Avatar for Justin Duino Justin Duino

I’m a writer for 9to5Google with a background in IT and Android development. Follow me on Twitter to read my ramblings about tech and email me at justin@jaduino.com. Tips are always welcome.