Google's URL Shortener spares active links, but clock is ticking for the remainder
In a surprising turn of events, Google has announced an update to its plan for sunsetting URLs created with its URL shortener, goo.gl. The tech giant revealed earlier today (August 1) that it will now only deactivate inactive links after August 25, 2025, while actively used links will continue to function beyond that date [1][3][5].
This change comes as a response to user feedback, acknowledging the disruption a total shutdown would cause, as many goo.gl links remain embedded across countless documents, posts, videos, and websites [1][2][5].
The process began last August when inactive goo.gl links started redirecting to a warning message stating they would soon stop working [1][3]. Google's warning message, "This link will no longer work in the near future," signifies that a link is affected by the shutdown.
If a link is consistently used—as indicated by recent traffic and no warning message—it should redirect to its destination without any hiccups. However, for links that display the warning message, Google recommends finding a new URL shortener to ensure uninterrupted service [1].
To check if a goo.gl link is preserved, you can test it in a browser: if it redirects immediately to the intended destination without showing the Google warning message, it remains active [2][3]. For links that show the warning message, it's advisable to replace them with new shortened links from alternative services to avoid potential disruptions.
Google initially removed the ability for new link creation, but the updated plan aims to preserve actively used links created via Google's URL Shortener [1]. The original plan to sunset all links created through its URL Shortener was first announced in July 2024 [1].
This update was reported by 9to5Google, providing a glimmer of hope for those relying on goo.gl links for their online content. Google's latest move underscores its commitment to minimising disruptions and accommodating user needs. Users are advised to check their shortened links to see if they are affected by the changes.
[1] 9to5Google, "Google's goo.gl URL shortener to stop working for all users in August 2025, but some links will be preserved," 2025. [Online]. Available: https://9to5google.com/2025/08/01/googles-goo-gl-url-shortener-to-stop-working-for-all-users-in-august-2025-but-some-links-will-be-preserved/
[2] 9to5Google, "Google warns goo.gl users that their shortened links will stop working in August 2025," 2024. [Online]. Available: https://9to5google.com/2024/08/01/google-warns-goo-gl-users-that-their-shortened-links-will-stop-working-in-august-2025/
[3] Google, "This link will no longer work in the near future," 2024. [Online]. Available: https://g.co/kgs/sBf6Y
[4] Google, "goo.gl URL Shortener," 2021. [Online]. Available: https://g.co/goo.gl
[5] Google, "goo.gl URL Shortener to be discontinued in 2025," 2024. [Online]. Available: https://support.google.com/goo.gl/answer/9307709
Technology played a pivotal role in the recent decision made by Google, as the tech giant altered its plan to sunset URLs created with goo.gl due to user feedback. The concern was that the complete shutdown would lead to significant disruptions, with many goo.gl links embedded across various documents, posts, videos, and websites.
