What Are Deep Links and How to Use Them in My App?

Navigating the mobile advertising landscape as a user can be like traversing a maze. The challenge intensifies when advertisers try to guide users directly to a specific location within their app. This is where deep linking comes into play. In this guide, you'll learn about deep links, their types, and actionable steps to implement them effectively in your mobile app.

What Is Deep Linking?

In the context of mobile apps, a mobile deep link is a URL that directs users to a specific location or feature within a mobile app, rather than simply launching the app's homepage.

Types of Deep Links

1. Traditional Deep Links

These work if the app is already installed—that clicking a link to a deep-linked page will open the correct page within the app.

2. Deferred Deep Links

Even if the app is not installed, clicking on the deep link will first guide the user to the App Store to download the app, and then to the specific location that the original link pointed to.

3. Universal Deep Links

These are iOS-specific and work whether the app is installed or not. They also offer additional capabilities like analytics tracking.

4. Android App Links

Like Universal Deep Links, but for Android apps. These also allow for more functionalities over traditional deep links.

Why Should You Use Deep Linking?

Enhanced User Experience

Deep linking simplifies the user journey by taking users directly to the app content they are interested in.

Improved Engagement

By directing users to targeted app content, you can improve user engagement metrics, such as session time and interaction rate.

Advanced Analytics

Deep linking allows you to track user behavior more effectively, providing valuable insights for optimizing your app and marketing strategy.

How to Implement Deep Linking in Your App

Step 1: Decide the Link Structure

Plan the URLs that your app can handle. These URLs will be mapped to specific functions within your app.

Step 2: Update Your App’s Configuration

For iOS, update your AppDelegate file to handle deep links. For Android, update your AndroidManifest.xml file.

Step 3: Test Thoroughly

Use both automated and manual testing to make sure that your deep links work as expected. Test with the app installed and uninstalled, and on different devices and operating systems.

Step 4: Analytics and Attribution

Until recently, many apps used built-in tools like Firebase for Android and the latest analytics APIs for iOS to track the effectiveness of deep links. However, since Google is now deprecating Firebase's deep links functionality, you should speak to your deep link or measurement provider to find out their solution. This will ensure you have insights into user behavior, conversion rates, and more.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Not Redirecting Users Properly

Make sure that if the app is not installed, users are directed to the app store to download it.

2. Ignoring Analytics

Ignoring the analytics of your deep links can cost you valuable insights. Always keep track of your deep links' performance.

3. Overlooking Security

Security measures should be in place to ensure that only authorized deep links can open your app.

10 top tips for deep link success on mobile

1. Identify Your High-Value App Content: Before implementing deep links, identify which areas of your app offer the most value to users. These could be product pages, user dashboards, or specific features that you want to highlight. By doing so, you can create a more targeted and effective deep linking strategy.
2. Choose the Right Deep Linking Method: There are three primary types of mobile deep links: traditional, deferred, and contextual. Traditional deep links work if the app is already installed—that is, clicking a link to a deep-linked page will open the correct page within the app. Deferred deep links, on the other hand, will guide users to the App Store if the app is not installed, and then to the specific location inside the app that the original link pointed to. Contextual deep links provide additional information, such as where the link was clicked, why it was clicked, and who clicked it. Choose the type that aligns best with your objectives.
3. Use Deep Links in Marketing Campaigns: Incorporate deep links into your email marketing campaigns, social media posts, and even QR codes on physical marketing materials. This enables a seamless transition from the promotional content to specific points within your app, increasing conversion rates.
4. Optimize User Onboarding with Deep Links: For new users, deep links can be an effective tool to streamline the onboarding process. Use them to guide first-time users to features or sections of your app that will help them realize its value faster.
5. Retarget Effectively: Deep links allow you to create highly personalized retargeting campaigns. By sending users directly to abandoned carts, specific product pages, or other areas of the app, you can make retargeting efforts more focused and effective.
6. Improve App SEO: Deep links are indexable, meaning they can appear in search engine results. This boosts your app's discoverability, driving organic traffic directly to specific app sections instead of just the homepage or app store page.
7. Measure and Analyze: Most deep linking platforms offer comprehensive analytics. Use these insights to understand user behavior better and to optimize future campaigns. See which types of deep links are most effective and adjust your strategy accordingly.
8. Enhance User Experience: Users dislike having to navigate through multiple pages to get the information they need. Deep links get users to their desired destination faster, improving overall satisfaction and increasing the chances of conversion.
9. A/B Testing for Deep Links: To understand what resonates with your audience, run A/B tests on different types of deep links or on the same deep link placed in different channels. This will provide valuable data that can be used to refine your deep linking strategy.
10. Monitor Deep Link Performance: Regularly check the performance of your deep links. Are they improving engagement? Are they boosting conversions and retention? Keep an eye on KPIs to ensure your deep linking efforts are contributing positively to your overall business goals. Adjust your strategy as needed.

Deep linking is a powerful tool for enhancing your mobile app's user experience and engagement. Implementing it requires a well-thought-out strategy and attention to detail, but the payoff in improved usability and more robust analytics can be substantial.