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Cover image for The End of Google URL Shortener and breaks 4.6 BILLION URLs!
Devarshi Shimpi
Devarshi Shimpi

Posted on • Updated on • Originally published at devarshi.dev

The End of Google URL Shortener and breaks 4.6 BILLION URLs!

Introduction

The innovations Google has brought to the table, from Chrome to the Google ecosystem, have undeniably shaped the internet. But sometimes, their decisions leave us scratching our heads, frustrated and disappointed. One such decision is the end of goo.gl, their URL shortener service, which brings back memories of other products they have shelved over the yearsβ€”like Google Reader and, more recently, Google Domains.

The Rise and Fall of goo.gl

goog-url-shortener-logo

When goo.gl was launched, it was a nifty tool that made sharing long, cumbersome URLs a breeze. It offered analytics and QR codes, making it a favorite among both casual users and developers.

But in 2018, Google announced that it would no longer support the creation of new goo.gl links, nudging users towards alternatives like Firebase Dynamic Links

Fast forward to now, and we've learned that all goo.gl links will completely stop working by August 2025. This isn’t just about not being able to make new links anymore; it means that all existing links will die. Clicking on them after the cutoff date will lead to a 404 error -- a digital dead end.

Alternatives to Google URL Shortener

Google suggested Firebase Dynamic Links as an alternative, but guess what? That service is also being deprecated on August 25, 2025. It's a frustrating loop, recommending one product as a replacement only to kill it off later. It makes planning and continuity a nightmare for users.

dub-co-homepage

As goo.gl sunsets, users are left seeking alternatives. Services like Bitly, TinyURL, and dub.co offer similar functionalities, each service comes with its own set of features, policies, and levels of reliability.

I personally prefer dub.co and it has been great in my experience till now. Their team was quick enough to even make the migration process as seamless as possible! Especially their quick alternative as ggl.link

dub-co-blog-google

Conclusion

The decision to end goo.gl is a reminder of the impermanence of digital tools. While Google's decision might be based on practical considerations, the impact on users is real and far-reaching. It disrupts current operations, potentially erases valuable information, and once again highlights the precariousness of relying on a single company for critical digital infrastructure.

Thank you for reading! If you found this blog post helpful, please consider sharing it with others who might benefit. Feel free to check out my other blog posts and visit my socials!

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Top comments (16)

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kevinast profile image
Kevin Bridges

Do you know if this invalidates ALL the Google Photo Links that are generated by Google itself?

Ex: photos.app.goo.gl/{hash}

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nlxdodge profile image
NLxDoDge

I mean if Google Photo's still exists they most likely are going to make something like a redirect (I hope). But it's Google, so there no guarantying anyways.

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devarshishimpi profile image
Devarshi Shimpi

Not sure, I think @nlxdodge summarises it quite well!

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martinbaun profile image
Martin Baun

Just don't use them... or create your own. Thanks for these resources!

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devarshishimpi profile image
Devarshi Shimpi

True, Always!

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mrkbr profile image
Mario Kober

There are so many OpenSource tools that you can self host. Just use one you own.

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devarshishimpi profile image
Devarshi Shimpi

Very true! Can just self host one on a cheap EC2 instance or even your own infra...

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perisicnikola37 profile image
Nikola Periőić

Great article. Thanks for sharing!

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devarshishimpi profile image
Devarshi Shimpi

You're welcome!

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mohamed_karim_2dddebb42bd profile image
mohamed karim

Thank for sharing

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devarshishimpi profile image
Devarshi Shimpi

You're welcome!

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abthelhaks profile image
Abdelhak

Will there be any redirection for existing goo.gl links after the service is discontinued?

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devarshishimpi profile image
Devarshi Shimpi

Yep! They all will redirect to the current goo.gl saying that it has been discontinued.
But, your links won't work anymore... Incase you are using it for existing links, migrate away to something else!

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oscarsantiago profile image
Oscar Andres

Recomendado :)

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devarshishimpi profile image
Devarshi Shimpi

Thank you... !

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