TLDR;
This video demonstrates how to build a URL shortener website similar to TinyURL using AI tools like Replet. It covers the process from initial setup to monetization, including adding features like custom aliases, QR codes, user accounts, analytics, premium subscriptions via Stripe, and Google AdSense integration. The video emphasizes the potential for creating a passive income stream through such a website, while also highlighting the importance of realistic expectations and the effort required for success.
- Building a URL shortener website using AI tools.
- Adding features like custom aliases, QR codes, user accounts, and analytics.
- Monetizing the website through Stripe subscriptions and Google AdSense.
Building the Basic URL Shortener [2:20]
The initial step involves creating a simple and efficient URL shortener. The goal is to allow users to paste a long URL and instantly receive a shortened version without requiring a login. Replet is used to build a responsive web application with a clean layout, featuring an input field for URLs and a button to shorten them. The app generates shortened links using a hash generator, ensuring they never expire and redirect properly, and a copy button is provided for easy sharing.
Setting Up Your Business with Doula [3:54]
The importance of properly setting up the business aspect of the website is emphasized. Doula is introduced as a service that handles the necessary business tasks such as setting up an LLC, obtaining an EIN, managing a registered agent, and assisting with business banking. Using Doula helps to ensure legal protection and simplifies tax management, allowing the website owner to focus on development and growth. A discount code "Mikey" is provided for 10% off Doula's services.
Improving Link Efficiency [5:16]
The initial hash generation method resulted in shortened links that were longer than expected, so the AI is prompted to use a different approach. The system updates the logic to use a base 62 encoding system, which creates cleaner and more compact URLs while maintaining uniqueness. The route handler is also tweaked to improve redirect behavior, and tests are conducted across desktop and mobile devices to ensure consistent performance.
Adding Customization: Branded Links and QR Codes [6:06]
Customization features are added to enhance the user experience, including the ability to create branded links and generate QR codes. Users are given the option to customize the second half of the shortened URL, with real-time availability checks to prevent duplicates. The app also automatically generates high-resolution QR codes for each shortened link, which can be downloaded and used for both digital and print distribution.
Implementing User Accounts and Dashboards [8:06]
User account functionality is implemented, allowing users to sign up, log in, and access a personal dashboard. The dashboard displays all the user's shortened links, with options to edit aliases, delete links, and view statistics. A bulk URL shortening feature is added to allow users to generate multiple shortened links at once, improving scalability and efficiency.
Enhancing the User Interface with React [9:47]
The front end of the application is upgraded using React and Material UI to improve the user interface and user experience. The redesign includes a cleaner, more responsive layout, contextual tooltips, modals for editing links, and a modern navigation bar. These enhancements streamline the workflow and make the app easier to use across various screen sizes.
Building an Analytics System [10:38]
A comprehensive analytics system is built to track every click on shortened links. The system collects and displays data including total clicks, geographic location, referral sources, device type, and time of access. This data is presented visually on a dedicated stats page for each link, with real-time updates and charts to help users track performance and adjust their strategies.
Integrating Stripe for Premium Subscriptions [12:37]
Stripe is integrated to offer premium user subscriptions, providing access to advanced analytics, branded links, higher shortening limits, and bulk QR code exports. Stripe Checkout is used for billing, and a dashboard page is included where users can manage their subscriptions. Premium users receive a badge on their profile and gain access to exclusive features.
Adding Google AdSense for Monetization [14:59]
Google AdSense is added to monetize the free tier version of the app. Banner ads are placed on the homepage, dashboard, and shortened link result pages, but are not shown to premium users. The ads are styled to blend into the UI and use responsive containers to maintain a clean layout across different screen sizes. The AdSense snippet is added, the domain ownership is verified, and the site is submitted for manual review to begin rendering live ads.