What is Deep Linking?

Deep Linking allows you to send users directly to a specific screen or piece of content inside your app, rather than just opening the home screen.

For example, clicking a notification or ad that opens /product/123 inside the app instead of landing on the default home page is powered by a deep link.

It improves user experience, reduces friction, and boosts conversion by taking users exactly where they need to go.

How does it work?

Deep links contain a URL scheme or universal link that the app can recognize and act on.

Types of deep links:

• Basic deep links: only work if the app is already installed
  
  

• Deferred deep links: work even if the app isn’t installed yet; after install, the user is routed to the intended screen
  
  

• Contextual deep links: include additional metadata (e.g., referral info, campaign ID)
  
  

• Universal Links (iOS) and App Links (Android): platform-specific protocols for safe, native deep linking
  
  

Apps often integrate tools like Branch, Firebase, or custom SDKs to handle deep link routing and fallback logic.

Why it matters

Deep Linking is essential for:

• Reducing drop-off in onboarding, promotions, or re-engagement
  
  

• Personalizing user journeys (e.g., invite links, promo pages)
  
  

• Improving performance in ads and push campaigns
  
  

• Enabling re-attribution or post-install engagement measurement

In mobile marketing, every extra tap is friction. Deep linking removes those taps — helping you drive better conversion and retention.