Deep Linking Do's and Don'ts: Best Practices for Engaging Users

Nov Sat, 2024

4 min read

Deep Linking has become an essential tool for app developers and marketers alike, by providing a seamless user experience, deep links help guide users to specific content within an app, boosting engagement and retention. In fact, apps that use deep linking have shown a +110% lift in the number of active users after the first 30 days, according to AppsFlyer.

But, like any tool, deep linking must be used wisely. In this article, we'll dive into the do's and don'ts of deep linking, explore the different types of deep links, and explain how to use them effectively to enhance user experience.

What is Deep Linking?

At its core, deep linking is a URI (Uniform Resource Identifier) scheme that links users to a specific location within an app. Without deep linking, mobile links often break the flow, opening the default app start screen rather than the intended content. This can lead to user frustration and a drop in engagement.

Deep linking ensures that users are taken directly to the content they are interested in, creating a more streamlined and personalized experience.

Types of Deep Links

There are several types of deep links, each serving a unique purpose:

Basic Deep Linking: This is the standard form of deep linking, where a user is directed to a specific location within an app.
Deferred Deep Linking: This type of deep linking comes into play when a user doesn't have the app installed. Once the app is installed, the deep link ensures the user is taken to the right location within the app.
Contextual Deep Linking: Contextual deep links go a step further by including data about the user, such as their device, the campaign they came from, or who referred them. This allows for a more personalized experience when the app is opened.
Universal Links (AKA AppLinks): These links provide greater security by verifying the specific app to be used with the link. Universal links also bridge the gap between web and app experiences, ensuring a seamless transition for users.

Deep Linking Do's

To make the most of deep linking, here are some best practices to follow:

1. Make it Useful

Deep links should always serve the user. By understanding what the user values or the problem they are trying to solve, you can create deep links that guide them to the most relevant content. Engaging in a two-way conversation with the user can help determine their goals and the best place in the app to send them.

2. Enrich with Data

Since deep links resolve to a specific location within the app, you can use contextual information to customize the experience. For example, if you know a user is coming from a specific campaign, you can tailor the content they see to match their interests.

3. Re-target Users

Deep links are a powerful tool for retargeting strategies. For instance, e-commerce apps can use deep links to send users directly to a product they previously added to their cart but didn’t purchase. Similarly, gaming apps can bring users back to the exact level they left off.

4. Use for Rewards

Incentivizing users with rewards through deep links can be highly effective. For example, a referral program can use deep links to direct referred users to specific rewards, encouraging them to make a purchase or engage with the app quickly after installation.

Deep Linking Don'ts

While deep linking can be incredibly useful, there are some pitfalls to avoid:

1. Avoid Tracking Redirects

Redirecting users to a blank page for tracking purposes can be jarring and lead to longer load times. Instead, resolve tracking via back-end calls to avoid the intermediate blank screen and provide a smoother user experience.

2. Don't Let Links Break

Apps are constantly evolving, with new features and bug fixes being rolled out regularly. If your deep links point to a page that no longer exists, it can lead to a broken experience. Ensure you have a reliable process for updating deep links and keeping them functional.

3. Don't Use Deep Links When Universal Links Are Available

For iOS and Android, Universal Links (iOS) and AppLinks (Android) come with additional security measures and permissions that make the user experience more seamless. Whenever possible, use these links instead of traditional deep links to ensure a more secure and efficient user journey.

Why Deep Linking Matters

Deep linking is more than just a technical feature—it's a way to engage users and boost retention. By guiding users to the right content at the right time, you can create a more personalized and relevant experience. This is especially important in today's competitive app landscape, where users expect a seamless and intuitive experience.

At TruAgents, we understand the importance of engaging users through personalized communication. Our AI-powered agents can help you create campaigns that leverage deep linking to drive engagement and retention. With our platform, you can set up AI agents that communicate with users in a two-way manner, ensuring that every interaction is meaningful and relevant.

Conclusion

Deep linking is a powerful tool that, when used correctly, can significantly improve user engagement and retention. By following the best practices outlined in this article, you can ensure that your deep links provide a seamless and personalized experience for your users.

Ready to take your app engagement to the next level? TruAgents can help you set up AI-powered campaigns that leverage deep linking to drive results. Schedule a demo today to learn more about how we can help you engage your users like never before.