Why Google’s goo.gl links are shutting down and what you need to know

As many of us know, Google’s goo.gl link shortening service has been an easy and reliable tool for shortening URLs for several years.

However, Google recently announced that goo.gl will no longer be available starting in August 2025.

This means that all links created with goo.gl will cease to work, potentially affecting websites, campaigns, and digital marketing strategies that have been relying on these shortened URLs.

If you’ve been using goo.gl links for your business or personal needs, it’s time to look for alternatives.

Luckily, there are several URL-shortening services available today, such as Bitly, TinyURL, Rebrandly, etc, but one that stands out is Replug.

In this blog, we’ll explore the ideal alternatives to goo.gl and how you can transition your links seamlessly to ensure your marketing efforts continue without interruption.

Why do you need to act now? With goo.gl links disappearing in August 2025, migrating to a new platform sooner rather than later will save you from headaches down the road. Plus, modern URL shorteners offer innovative tools like retargeting, branded links, and detailed analytics that goo.gl never supported.

Some goo.gl links alternatives of 2025

There are plenty of alternatives that not only replace goo.gl but also bring enhanced features to the table. Let’s explore some top-notch URL -shortening tools to keep your campaigns running seamlessly.

1. Replug – The all-in-one link solution

Best for: Marketers who need more than just shortened links.

Best features:

• Custom-branded URLs to elevate brand visibility and credibility.
• Password protection to keep your links secure and private.
• Retargeting visitors to supercharge ad campaigns and conversions.
• Advanced analytics to track link performance and user behavior.
• Bio links are used to consolidate multiple social profiles into one convenient link.
• Personal domains for consistent, branded user experiences.
• Customizable link previews for social sharing.
• Deep linking to seamlessly redirect users to in-app content.
• A/B testing to optimize your links based on performance data.
• Branded QR codes that are easy to scan and share, aligning with your branding.
• UTM tracking to monitor campaign performance with detailed insights.
• White-label dashboards are needed to rebrand the platform fully without the Replug logo showing.

Replug transforms marketing with cutting-edge features, which you’ll get at such affordable pricing. Its affordable pricing and powerful integrations make it ideal for SaaS companies, agencies tracking growth, or e-commerce brands expanding outreach. 

Besides that, Replug delivers seamless customization backed by 24/7 support, making it an essential tool for digital marketers and health professionals alike.

2. Bitly – The industry standard

Best for: Businesses seeking a simple and reliable solution.

Features:

• Clean, user-friendly interface.
• Real-time link performance metrics.
• QR code generator for offline sharing.
• Allows users to create bio-link pages.
• Link expiration settings to manage link lifecycle.
• Robust API for easy integration.

Bitly is a go-to for many, offering excellent customization options and trusted reliability.

Also read: Bitly Vs TinyURL Vs Replug: Which URL Shortener is Best for Agencies?

3. TinyURL – The simple choice

Best for: Quick, one-off link shortening.

Features:

• No sign-up is required for basic use.
• Customizable URLs for personalization.
• It offers an analytics dashboard for a clear view of analytics.
• Allows users to edit URL Aliases.

While it lacks advanced features, TinyURL is perfect for casual users who prioritize simplicity.

4. Rebrandly – The branding expert

Best for: Businesses focusing on building brand trust.

Features:

• Custom domain support for branded links.
• Allows you to add retargeting pixels to your links.
• Collaboration tools for teams.
• Create an advanced link gallery to centralize all your links.
• Deep analytics to measure impact.

Rebrandly is ideal for teams that want consistent branding across every touchpoint.

Also read: Bitly vs Rebrandly vs Replug: Which is the best link management tool?

5. Ow.ly – The social media pro

Best for: Social media managers using Hootsuite.

Features:

• Seamless Hootsuite integration.
• Easy link sharing across platforms.
• Allows for scheduling posts with links.

If you’re a Hootsuite user, Ow.ly fits like a glove to simplify your workflow.

Why is Replug the best alternative to goo.gl?

Replug offers a wide range of features, making it an excellent replacement for goo.gl.

Here are some of the key reasons why you should consider switching to Replug:

1. Customizable links

One of the standout features of Replug is its ability to customize the links you shorten. Unlike goo.gl, which provides generic short links, Replug allows you to create branded URLs consistent with your business identity. 

This makes your links look more professional and helps with brand recognition and trust. 

You can choose custom domains and add meaningful text to your short URLs, making them more clickable and relevant.

2. Advanced analytics

Replug doesn’t just shorten links—it also provides in-depth analytics to help you track the performance of your links. You can easily monitor the number of clicks, the geographic locations of your visitors, and the devices they use.

Also read: The importance of tracking click data in digital analytics

3. Retargeting features

Another major advantage of Replug is its ability to add retargeting pixels to your links. This feature is ideal for businesses and marketers who want to retarget visitors with ads on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google.

Adding a retargeting pixel to a Replug link lets you track and reconnect with users who clicked on your link but didn’t take the desired action. This feature is a game-changer for improving conversion rates and driving sales.

4. Link management dashboard

Replug provides an easy-to-use link management dashboard that allows you to organize all your shortened links in one place. You can categorize links by campaign, monitor their performance, and edit or delete them if necessary.

In addition, the dashboard offers several powerful features to optimize your link strategy, such as creating link previews, customizing favicons, and running A/B tests. You can also change link destinations, rotate traffic, and bulk import or export links for greater efficiency. 

For added control, Replug enables you to set link expirations and password-protect your links, ensuring both flexibility and security in your link management process.

5. Team collaboration

For businesses with multiple team members, Replug offers team collaboration features that allow users to manage and share links with colleagues.

This is particularly useful for agencies or marketing teams working on many campaigns, as it ensures everyone is on the same page and can access the necessary data.

How to migrate from goo.gl to Replug?

Migrating from goo.gl to Replug is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it in just a few simple steps:

1. Export tour goo.gl link data

The Google URL shortener login lets you access your account and download your link data before goo.gl links are deactivated. 

Exporting this data provides you with a record of all your long URL analytics and statistics, which can be crucial for making informed decisions moving forward.

2. Sign up for Replug

Visit the Replug website and choose the plan that best fits your needs.

You can start with a 14-day free trial to get familiar with the platform and its features or opt for a premium plan for more advanced capabilities.

3. Create custom links

Once you’ve signed up, you can start shortening your URLs with Replug. Enter the long URL you want to shorten, and Replug will provide a custom short link.

You can also change the link name to make it more relevant and memorable by adding keywords or your brand name.

4. Update old goo.gl links

If you have existing goo.gl links, it’s time to replace them with Replug links. If those links are already shared across websites, social media, or email campaigns, it’s important to update them to ensure that your audience is directed to the correct destination.

You can also track these links with Replug’s analytics to see how they perform compared to the old goo.gl links.

5. Monitor link performance

Once your Replug links are live, use the platform’s analytics tools to track their performance.

Replug gives you detailed insights into how many clicks your links receive, where those clicks are coming from, and how they’re performing across different channels. This data will help you refine your campaigns and make necessary adjustments.

Benefits of switching to Replug before August 2025

With Google discontinuing goo.gl in August 2025, it’s important to start transitioning your links to a more reliable and feature-rich platform like Replug. 

Here are a few key benefits of making the switch now:

• No service interruptions: By migrating to Replug early, you ensure that your links continue to work without any downtime once goo.gl shuts down.
• Improved link management: Replug’s advanced analytics, retargeting features, and easy link management dashboard give you greater control over your links and marketing campaigns.
• Better branding opportunities: Customizable links allow you to build a stronger brand presence and make your links more memorable to your audience.
• Future-proofing: As digital marketing continues to evolve, Replug’s features will keep you ahead of the curve with new updates and tools designed to enhance your marketing efforts.

Final thoughts

As Google’s goo.gl link shortening service heads for retirement, it’s essential to find a reliable alternative to keep your marketing campaigns on track. 

Replug stands out as the best option with its powerful features, including customizable links, analytics, retargeting capabilities, and easy link management. 

By migrating to Replug now, you can ensure a seamless transition and continue driving effective marketing campaigns long after goo.gl is gone.

Start using Replug today and experience the difference it can make to your link management and overall digital marketing strategy.

FAQs on goo.gl URL shortener 

Why is goo.gl shutting down?

Google is discontinuing the goo.gl URL shortening service in August 2025 as part of its strategy to focus on other products and services.

How can I migrate my links from goo.gl?

You can easily export your goo.gl data, sign up for Replug, and replace your old goo.gl links with custom Replug URLs.

What are the benefits of using Replug over goo.gl?

Replug offers customizable branded links, detailed analytics, retargeting options, and a user-friendly dashboard, all of which goo.gl didn’t provide.

Is Replug suitable for businesses?

Yes, Replug is ideal for businesses of all sizes, offering advanced features like retargeting, custom domains, and analytics for effective marketing campaigns.

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