Deep linking, once seen as a revolutionary tool to unlock the full potential of mobile apps, has not lived up to its promise. Initially, deep links were designed to act as a bridge between web content and mobile apps, allowing users to seamlessly switch between the two. They were also intended to help app developers increase user engagement and retention rates.
Despite the initial hype, deep links have proven to be less effective than anticipated. The primary reason for this is the complexity involved in their implementation. Developers have to create and manage hundreds, sometimes thousands, of these links, which is a time-consuming and intricate process. Additionally, each operating system requires a different type of deep link, adding to the complexity.
Even when implemented correctly, deep links often lead to user frustration. They can redirect users to app stores even when they have the app installed, or send them to the wrong part of an app. This can result in a disjointed user experience, leading to decreased engagement.
Meanwhile, tech giants like Google and Apple have started to move away from deep links, focusing instead on app indexing and universal links. These newer technologies provide a more seamless user experience, without the need for complex deep linking.
In conclusion, despite their initial promise, deep links have largely fallen short of expectations due to their complexity and the emergence of more user-friendly alternatives.
Go to source article: https://medium.com/backchannel/the-failed-promise-of-deep-links-aa307b3abaa5