How App Developers Can Use QR Codes with Short Links to Drive More Installs

May 09, 2025
smith
smith
smith
smith
9 mins read

How App Developers Can Use QR Codes with Short Links to Drive More Installs

While most app promotion happens online, offline marketing still has power — from printed flyers to posters, packaging, and business cards.

But here's the challenge: how do you get someone to download your app from a piece of paper?

Simple. Combine short links with QR codes.

Let’s explore how app developers can use this combo to drive more installs, collect data, and improve their reach even in the real world.


What Is a Short Link + QR Code Combo?

You take a short link (like urlshortly.com/myapp) and convert it into a QR code.

Users simply scan the QR code with their phone camera, and they’re taken straight to your app's page — without typing anything.

It’s fast, user-friendly, and works perfectly in the physical world.


Where Can You Use QR Code Short Links?

App developers can print QR code short links on:

  • Posters and banners

  • Flyers and brochures

  • Product packaging

  • T-shirts and merchandise

  • Conference booths

  • Delivery boxes

  • Receipts

  • Restaurant tables

  • Business cards

These touchpoints make your app discoverable anywhere users look.


Why Use URLShortly for QR Code Campaigns?

When you create a short link with URLShortly.com, you get:

  • A clean, branded URL

  • An auto-generated QR code

  • Link analytics (clicks, devices, location)

  • Full control — edit the destination anytime

  • Easy management of multiple campaigns


Benefits for App Developers

Fast Access

QR codes make it super simple for users to scan and install your app — especially in public places.

Looks Professional

Instead of printing a long URL, use a small QR code with a branded short link underneath (e.g., get.myapp.com).

Trackable Results

Know exactly how many people scanned your code — and where they were.

A/B Test Designs

Try different flyer designs with separate QR codes/short links and see which works best.

Better Conversion from Offline to Online

Bridge the gap between real-world marketing and digital downloads.


Example Use Case

An app that helps people book fitness classes might:

  • Print flyers with a QR code linking to:
    urlshortly.com/bookfit-flyer

  • Display posters in gyms and parks with a different QR code:
    urlshortly.com/bookfit-poster

Now the developer can compare which offline channel gets the most downloads.


Tips for Creating Effective QR Code Campaigns

  • Always test your QR code before printing.

  • Keep your short link readable underneath the QR code.

  • Make sure the landing page (like Play Store or App Store) is mobile-friendly.

  • Use clear call-to-action text like “Scan to Download” or “Get the App Now.”


Conclusion

For app developers, combining short links with QR codes is one of the smartest ways to take your app beyond screens and into the real world. Whether you're targeting events, product packaging, or posters, this method is:

  • Cost-effective

  • Easy to implement

  • Fully trackable

Start building your QR-enabled campaigns with URLShortly.com today and reach new users — wherever they are.

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