Definition
A link shortener is a tool or service that converts long, complex URLs into short, manageable links. Beyond simple URL compression, modern link shorteners offer click tracking, geographic analytics, device type reporting, and custom branded domains. Popular link shorteners include Bitly, TinyURL, Rebrandly, and Pretty Links (WordPress plugin). For creators, link shorteners serve dual purposes: making links shareable in character-limited contexts (Twitter/X, SMS) and providing click analytics to measure audience engagement with specific content or offers.