What is deferred deep linking and how does it work?

What happens if a friend sends you a link via iMessage and you click it? The app launches, correct? What if you don't have that app installed on your phone? Can you never see what was on the other side?

No, we've deferred deep links now!

Unlike standard deep links, deferred deep links are one level higher, allowing you to view content later even if you don't have the app installed. App developers view it as a powerful tool for increasing engagement, user acquisition, and profits

So in this blog, we'll look at what deferred deep linking is, why it's important, and how it works. But we'll also look for case studies on how to use deep links in your mobile app, as well as a few best practices to keep in mind.

Are you ready to learn all about deep linking?

What is deferred deep linking?

Deferred deep linking is a marketing technique that directs users to specific content within a mobile app, even if it is not installed on their device. These links, which are present on both iOS and Android devices, help to increase user acquisition and are frequently used in app marketing strategies.

Standard and regular deeplinks require the app to be installed on the device to function, whereas deferred deep links do not. Instead, these deep links intelligently wait for the app to be installed on the user's device before taking any action.

And that is exactly why you should understand how to use deferred deep links in your mobile app marketing strategy!

Why are deferred deep links important?

Of course, one of the first questions you'll have is why deep linking is necessary in the first place. Here are three critical reasons why almost every successful app is currently enhancing its marketing strategy with deep linking:

1. Improved user experience.

Deferred deep links enable users to seamlessly transition from a web link or advertisement to specific content within an app, skipping any generic welcome pages or sign-up screens. I am not sure about you, but I have never been a fan of those screens!

This reduces friction in the user journey, allowing users to access the content they are interested in directly. A better user experience boosts satisfaction and encourages repeat app usage.

2. A data-driven marketing tactic

Deferred deep links are a valuable tool for app marketers because they enable precise targeting and tracking of user interactions. Marketers can create personalized campaigns with deep links that direct users to specific content or promotional offers, allowing them to accurately track the effectiveness of their marketing efforts.

Furthermore, when you analyze the performance metrics of deferred deep links, you can make data-driven decisions to improve your campaigns' results and ROI!

3. Increased app installations.

What do we want? Increased app installations! How can we do this? By allowing deep links, potential users will have direct access to relevant app content! This math is simple, but let me explain it anyway...

When users are directed to specific content that matches their interests or needs, they are more likely to download the app to learn more or access additional features. This targeted approach to app promotion increases conversion rates and total app installs.