deeplink

A deeplink is a type of Uniform Resource Identifier (URI) that links to a specific location within a mobile application, rather than just launching the app itself. This allows users to be taken directly to a particular piece of content, screen, or functionality within an application. When a user clicks a deeplink, their mobile device recognizes the link and, if the corresponding app is installed, opens it to the specified destination. If the app is not installed, the deeplink might direct the user to the app store to download it.

Deeplinks are crucial for improving user experience and enabling seamless navigation. They are commonly used in mobile marketing campaigns, social media posts, email newsletters, and website promotions to guide users to relevant content within an app. For example, a marketing email might contain a deeplink that, when clicked, opens a shopping app directly to a specific product page. Similarly, a social media post about a news article could use a deeplink to open that article within a news app.

There are different types of deeplinks, including traditional deeplinks, deferred deeplinks, and universal links (for iOS) or app links (for Android). Traditional deeplinks require the app to be installed. Deferred deeplinks handle cases where the app is not installed by first sending the user to the app store and then, after installation, directing them to the intended content. Universal links and app links are more advanced versions that can also open web content if the app is not installed, providing a more unified web-to-app experience. Deeplinking is a fundamental technology for connecting web content and mobile applications.