Google announced in a developers blog post that it is shutting down its URL shortening service goo.gl in favor of Firebase Dynamic Links. Google says that all existing links will “continue to redirect to the intended destination.” The reason behind the shutdown, Google says, is that it wants to redirect existing and potential users to any location within an iOS, Android, or web app. This is achieved by the use of FDLs, and thus Google is moving its efforts towards that service.
As far as consumers go, they can continue to use all features of the goo.gl console until March 30, 2019. After March 30, 2019, all links will continue to redirect to the intended destination; however, you will not be able to create new short links with goo.gl.
Developers who use the goo.gl API can continue to use the service; however, no new developers will be able to access this API starting May 30, 2018. Google is asking new developers to use the FDL API.
Google has also asked consumers to consider using other URL shorteners such as bit.ly and ow.ly. Similar to Reader, this is yet another great Google product being shut down for no reason.
Source: Google Developers
Featured-Image: Android Police
