Studio tools 4 min read
How direct app opening stops ad drop-off on Instagram & TikTok
Send phone fans straight into the Spotify, Apple Music or YouTube Music app instead of a web login.
Anyone can read this guide. The tool it covers is part of the Studio and Lifetime plans.
- 1
Why fans drop off
- Instagram, TikTok and YouTube open links inside their own browser.
- In that browser, fans often see a web login instead of their music app — and many leave.
- 2
Turn it on
- Go to Dashboard → Smart Links, open the link, then open Studio tools.
- Switch on Direct app opening and click Save.
Tip: It works on links you already shared — nothing to re-post.
- 3
What fans see
- On phones, Spotify buttons open the Spotify app. Apple Music opens the Music app on iPhone, and YouTube Music opens its app on Android.
- If the app isn't installed, the normal web link opens after a moment.
- Computers always use the normal web link.
Watch out: Some in-app browsers block apps from opening. The web link is always the fallback, so fans never get stuck.
- 4
Test it on your phone
- Send your link to yourself in Instagram or TikTok DMs and tap a service button.
- Try it with and without the app installed.