New Delhi, July 25 -- Now Google is officially retiring its long running URL shortening service. From next month, starting August 25, 2025, any link using the "https://goo.gl/" format will stop working. Instead of redirecting, it will lead users to a standard "404 Not Found" error page.

It was first launched in 2009. goo.gl was created to help users shorten long URLs, particularly for sharing on social media platforms or in emails. As it came, it became a popular tool, offering fast redirects and basic analytics. Over time, however, its use declined as new platforms emerged and Google shifted its focus elsewhere. It remained a simple and effective solution for many, even as its role started to fade in the changing digital landscape.

For...