Google entered into the URL shortener game almost a decade ago with the introduction of goo.gl. Fast forward to 2018, Google has announced that it will pull the curtain down on its URL shortener, come March 30, 2019. Thankfully, not all is lost for goo.gl fans, as Google has announced the launch of Firebase Dynamic Links in tandem, which is an upgrade to the goo.gl.

This move by Google will help businesses redirect customers to a location on all devices and platforms. Reflecting on what has changed from goo.gl to Firebase Dynamic Links, Michael Hermanto said, “Since then, many popular URL shortening services have emerged and the ways people find content on the Internet have also changed dramatically, from primarily desktop web pages to apps, mobile devices, home assistants, and more.” For a business using goo.gl link shortener, finding a suitable replacement might be a challenge. If you are looking for a worthy alternative, you are at the right place.

In this article, you will learn about five goo.gl alternatives that you need to try today.

1.     Firebase Dynamic Links

An obvious choice since it is the brainchild of Google, but it has some distinct advantages over other link shortening services. For a small business, there is nothing more important than to be present on all platforms and devices. With Firebase Dynamic Links, you can attract your target audience, irrespective of the device they are using. It’s compatibility with any platform or device you can think of is a big bonus for small businesses.

2.     Bit.ly

Bit.ly is a market leader in the link shortening industry. It is by far the most popular tool for shortening links. Its extensive integration with different online services and popular apps makes it a good option. What makes Bit.ly stand out from the crowd is its ability to track the number of clicks that your shortened links have received. Additionally, you can also bookmark and organize your links with your customizable Bit.ly dashboard.

3.     Tiny URL

Launched in the year 2002, Tiny URL is one of the oldest URL shorteners. For those looking for a quick, easy and anonymous way to shorten links, Tiny URL fits the bill perfectly. Install a toolbar and you can create a short link right from the website that you are currently browsing. All you have to do is to follow the instructions on the Tiny URL official website. Tiny URL is completely free of cost but it does not allow you to track link analytics.

4.     Ow.ly

Coming from the likes of HootSuite, the leading social media management application, expectations with Ow.ly ran sky high, and it did not disappoint. Shortening links with Ow.ly is a breeze. On the downside, you will have to enter a CAPTCHA code. The unique selling point for Ow.ly that differentiates it from the rest is its capability to handle a wide range of formats including images, videos, and files. Moreover, it is integrated with HootSuite, making it your perfect social media partner for all your social media marketing efforts.

5.     Polr

Tech geeks and advanced users will surely love Polr for what you can do with it. It is basically an open source project that you can access via GitHub. You can fork it if you have the right programming skills but you can also use it as a simple tool. PHP developers with command over MySQL will surely get the most out of Polr. Try Polr by visiting its demo page. It is one of the best link-shortening tools for coders looking to self-host their website.

Conclusion

With digital spaces shrinking with each passing day and social media marketers focusing on making an impact on their target audience with as few words as possible, the popularity of link shortening tools will skyrocket. With Google calling it a day for goo.gl and introducing a new link shortening tool in the form of Firebase Dynamic Links, businesses will start to look for alternatives that can help them to shorten long links without any hassle.

Which link shortening tools do you use currently? Which is your favorite link-shortening tool? Feel free to share it with us in the comments section below.