Google Plus introduces vanity URLs
Google recently introduced vanity URLS for their social media platform, enabling users and brands on their site to further customize their profile pages. According to the announcement posted by Google product manager Saurubh Sharma, these vanity URLs will initially be rolled out to a few verified users though its availability for all users is definitely in the works.
“A custom URL is a short, easy to remember Web address that links directly to your profile or page on Google+.” said Sharma.
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The current URL format for non-verified Google Plus users involves a long series of numbers at the end of the plus.google.com domain name, making it nearly impossible to remember and even display offline.
Aside from letting you add a personalized username, the new custom URLs have also dropped plus to make it even shorter. This lets you further optimize your Google Plus profile page for better branding, linking, and for solidifying your brand’s online presence.
Brands like Hugo and Ubisoft, and celebrities David Beckham and Hugh Jackman, have already taken advantage of this. However, while their URLs have already been modified, the old URL scheme still works as of writing.
“For instance, TOYOTA can now use google.com/+toyota to unveil their latest models, +Britney Spears can share her upcoming appearances at google.com/+britneyspears, +Ubisoft can share game trailers and videos at google.com/+assassinscreed, and +Delta can help travellers find great deals at google.com/+delta.” Sharma added.
With custom URLs in place, you can further your site’s SEO campaigns by increasing your discoverability on the social network and via the search engines. This can drive some significant traffic back to your own Web site, creating multiple social engagement opportunities.
It’s been more than a year since Google unleashed its social media platform, so modifications and new features should be expected. As mentioned, custom URLs are initially available to a limited number of verified profiles and brand pages, and will be rolled out worldwide soon.
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