Android App Links

What are Android App Links?

Understand the "Android App Links"

Android App Links are a powerful feature that can significantly improve the user experience in Android apps by allowing users to directly access specific in-app content or relevant webpages. Developers can implement Android App Links by following the official documentation provided by Android and making necessary changes to their app's SDK and configuration.

With Android App Links, developers can ensure that users are directed to their desired in-app location with ease. This feature is particularly useful when developers want to provide a seamless experience for users who have the app installed on their device.

By leveraging Android App Links, developers can eliminate the need for users to manually navigate within the app to reach the content they are looking for, saving time and effort.

What’s the difference between Deep Links and Android App Links?

When it comes to creating links for your app, it's crucial to understand the difference between deep links and Android App Links.

Deep links are URLs that direct users to in-app content, and they can even redirect users to the app store if the app is not yet installed, and then guide them to the right location after installation.

Deep links can be set up on Android using intent filters and by extracting data from incoming intents, ensuring that users are directed to the correct in-app location.

However, there is a significant distinction between deep links and Android App Links.

With deep links, users may be redirected to the app if it is already installed on their device, or to the Play Store if the app is not yet installed. On the other hand, Android App Links offer a different approach.

On Android 6.0 (API level 23) and higher, apps can be designated as the default handler of Android App Links.

This means that if a user clicks on an Android App Link, it will automatically open in the designated app, without any prompts or redirections to the Play Store.

However, if this default behavior is not preferable for the user, they have the option to change the default handler in their device's system settings, giving them control over their app preferences.

Understanding the difference between deep links and Android App Links is crucial when creating links for your app, as it allows you to tailor the user experience and ensure that users are directed to the right location seamlessly, whether the app is installed or not.

Why do developers use Android App Links?

Android App Links are commonly used by developers for various reasons. One major advantage is that they can help drive traffic to an app and highlight popular in-app content, providing an improved user experience. Android App Links use a single HTTP URL for content in-app and on the website, which can save users time and effort in finding specific content, regardless of whether the app is installed or not.

Another significant benefit of Android App Links is the security aspect. These links use HTTP URLs that are associated with a developer's website domain, meaning that only the developer can utilize those links. Furthermore, developers are required to verify their ownership of the domain, ensuring additional security measures.

In addition to these advantages, developers may also choose to make their app available as an Instant App, allowing users to run Android apps without installing them.