October 6, 2024

How to deep link to the YouTube app

It's very common to send external traffic to a YouTube channel or video. But there is a big issue with the way things are done today. To maximize views and engagement, however, marketers need to deep link to the YouTube mobile app for iOS and Android to avoid the YouTube mobile website login.

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Linking to a YouTube video from Instagram today

Today when your audience click on a YouTube link directly from Instagram they face a couple of issues that can lead to lower engagement and revenue for you.

The viewers are welcomed by a disturbing "Accept Cookies" popup
The viewers are not able to like the video because they are not logged in
The viewers are not able to subscribe to your channel because they are not logged in
The viewers don't see any ads, meaning you receive less revenue from all external traffic that you send

Using SmartLink to link to a YouTube video from Instagram

SmartLink allows marketers and influencers to create YouTube profile and video links that can open the YouTube app. Deep linking to the YouTube mobile app vs. website will help you increase followers, views and engagement.

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Swipe-up links from Instagram to my latest YouTube video now opens the video directly in the YouTube app. This allows my audience to comment and like the video seamlessly - Sherin Amara

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Step-by-step guide to creating YouTube deep links

A large percentage of Youtube users have installed the YouTube app for iOS or Android. SmartLink enables you to create deeps link to the Youtube mobile app vs. website providing your visitors with a more seamless content experience. Just follow these steps:

Download the Mysocial app and create an account.
Go to Profile and open the extension SmartLink
Copy your YouTube channel or video link that you want to create a deep link to.
In SmartLink paste the link in the input field. (See below image)
Copy your SmartLink YouTube deep link and use it in your other marketing channels.

Smartlink - Creating deeplink to YouTube

Where to promote your SmartLink deep links for YouTube:

Swipe up link in Instagram Stories and Snapchat
In your Instagram Bio and TikTok Bio
Publish a tweet on Twitter that includes the link or upload a Facebook post.
Use it behind the YouTube icon on your website.
Place it behind the YouTube icon in your email templates.
Place behind banners in display advertising and paid search campaigns that promote your YouTube content and presence.

Track every deep link click

Directly from SmartLink you're able to measure every click that your deep-link have generated. This will give you a better understanding of which links are performing best and can help you optimize your YouTube cross-promotion strategy for the future

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Start creating YouTube deep links. Download the Mysocial app.

Frequently asked questions

Does deep linking to YouTube impact watch time?

Yes, deep linking can positively impact watch time. When viewers directly access the YouTube app, they are less likely to be distracted by external factors like cookie popups or the need to log in. This smoother experience can lead to increased engagement and longer viewing sessions, ultimately benefiting your channel's overall watch time.

Can deep linking to YouTube from Instagram increase subscribers?

Absolutely! Deep linking simplifies the process for viewers to subscribe. By landing directly on your video within the app, they can easily hit the subscribe button without any barriers. This seamless experience is more likely to convert viewers into subscribers.

Is deep linking to the YouTube app better than the mobile site?

Yes, deep linking to the app generally provides a superior user experience. The app offers a more immersive viewing experience, faster loading times, and features optimized for mobile interactions. This often leads to higher engagement and conversion rates compared to the mobile website.

How does deep linking impact YouTube revenue from external traffic?

Deep linking can boost your YouTube revenue from external sources. When viewers seamlessly access your videos in the app, they are more likely to be served ads, especially if they are logged in. This increased ad exposure translates to greater earning potential from your external traffic.

Beyond social media, where else can I use YouTube deep links?

The possibilities are vast! Consider incorporating deep links in email newsletters, behind call-to-action buttons on your website, within blog posts related to your videos, or even in QR codes for offline promotions.

Can I track the performance of my YouTube deep links?

Yes, tools like SmartLink offer analytics dashboards to monitor the performance of your deep links. You can track metrics like click-through rates, the number of installs (if applicable), and even attribute conversions or sign-ups back to specific deep links.