Running an affiliate programme for your mobile app should be straightforward. But not every programme needs short codes — sometimes a simple deep link is all your affiliates need to start promoting.
That is why Insert Affiliate now lets you turn off short codes entirely, giving your affiliates a clean, links-only experience.
What Are Short Codes?
Short codes are unique alphanumeric identifiers assigned to each affiliate in your programme. They are useful for tracking and promotion, but they add an extra layer of complexity that not every programme requires.
Some apps rely exclusively on deep links for attribution and tracking. If that describes your setup, displaying short codes to affiliates can create confusion about which method to use.
Introducing Links-Only Mode
With the new Short Codes visibility setting, you can now disable short codes across your entire programme with a single toggle. When disabled:
- Affiliates only see their deep link in their dashboard, settings, and onboarding flow
- Short code metrics are hidden from both admin and affiliate views
- The onboarding experience is simplified — new affiliates see clear instructions focused solely on their deep link
- Your admin dashboard stays clean by removing short code performance cards you do not need
How to Enable Links-Only Mode
Switching to a links-only experience takes just a few seconds:
- Log in to your Insert Affiliate dashboard
- Navigate to the Settings page
- Find the Short Codes dropdown
- Select Short Codes Disabled
- Save your settings
That is it. The change takes effect immediately across your entire programme.
What Your Affiliates Will See
Once short codes are disabled, your affiliates get a streamlined experience. During onboarding, they will see their deep link front and centre with clear instructions on how to use it. Their affiliate dashboard will display only the information they need — their deep link and link click metrics.
There is no confusion about which tracking method to use, no extra codes to remember, and no unnecessary clutter in their interface.
When to Use Links-Only Mode
Links-only mode works best when:
- Your app uses a deep linking platform like Insert Links, Branch.io, or AppsFlyer
- You want to simplify the affiliate experience for non-technical promoters
- Your tracking and attribution is handled entirely through deep links
- You prefer a cleaner, more focused dashboard for both you and your affiliates
Short Code Only Users Are Unaffected
If your programme uses the "Short Code Only" deep linking platform, this setting does not apply to you. Short codes will always remain visible because they are your primary tracking method. The toggle only appears for programmes using other deep linking platforms.
A Cleaner Programme, Better Results
Removing unnecessary complexity from your affiliate programme helps your affiliates focus on what matters — promoting your app. When the tools are simple and the instructions are clear, affiliates are more likely to take action.
Try links-only mode today and give your affiliates the streamlined experience they deserve.