How does URL shortening work in SMS messages sent via Hive.co?
Overview
If you've ever sent SMS messages through Hive.co and included a URL, you might have noticed that the link doesn't appear exactly as you typed it. This is because Hive.co automatically shortens URLs in text messages. The process of shortening URLs ensures that your SMS content remains concise while enabling additional features, such as click tracking.
Key Points:
Automatic URL Shortening: All URLs included in SMS messages sent through Hive.co are shortened automatically. This serves multiple purposes:
Character Count Efficiency: SMS messages have a strict character limit, and shorter links save valuable space, allowing you to include more content in your text.
Tracking Features: Shortened links are often wrapped with tracking capabilities, enabling you to monitor how many recipients clicked on a link in your SMS.
Redirect to Original URL: Even though the URL appears shortened, it still redirects recipients to the original webpage you intended to send them to. The functionality and destination of the link remain unchanged.
Added Benefits of Shortened Links:
Click Tracking: Shortened links allow for detailed tracking data that you can use to analyze user engagement with your SMS campaigns.
Example:
A full-length link like "https://www.mycampaignexamplepage.com/summer-promo" might appear as something like "h-1.com/abcd" in the SMS. When clicked, it will redirect the recipient seamlessly to the original URL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn’t the original URL displayed in the SMS?
The URL appears shortened to comply with SMS character limitations and to add tracking capabilities. These shortened links keep the messages concise while ensuring you maintain the ability to measure their effectiveness.
Will the destination of the original URL ever change?
No. The destination URL remains exactly as you typed it when creating the message. Hive.co's system ensures that the shortened link accurately redirects to the intended page.