In a recent update, the Google app for Android has introduced a new setting that allows users to disable the automatic link shortening feature when sharing URLs from Search and Discover. Previously, sharing a webpage from the Google app would generate a shortened URL in the format share.google.com/abcxyz, which could obscure the original link’s destination.
With this update, users can now opt to share the full, original URL, enhancing transparency and trustworthiness in shared links. To access this setting, open the Google app, tap on your profile avatar to navigate to Settings, and under Other settings, you’ll find the Shorten links to web pages toggle. By default, this feature is enabled, but users can disable it to share complete URLs.
It’s important to note that this setting currently applies to links shared after opening them in the Google app’s Chrome Custom Tab. Links shared directly from the Discover feed without opening them first continue to use the shortened search.app format. This may be an oversight that could be addressed in future updates.
This change aligns with Google’s broader strategy to phase out its URL shortening services. The company has announced that its Google URL Shortener (goo.gl) will cease operations on August 25, 2025. After this date, existing goo.gl links will no longer function, returning a 404 error. To facilitate this transition, starting August 23, 2024, users clicking on goo.gl links will encounter an interstitial page informing them of the upcoming discontinuation before redirecting to the intended destination.
The discontinuation of goo.gl reflects a shift in how users share and access content online, with a move towards more integrated and versatile link-sharing solutions. Google recommends transitioning to alternative URL shortening services such as Bitly, TinyURL, or Rebrandly to ensure continued functionality of shortened links.
In summary, the new setting in the Google app provides users with greater control over how they share links, allowing for more transparency and alignment with Google’s ongoing changes to its URL shortening services.
