Magic links provide a seamless authentication method for getting users into your app or website without requiring them to explicitly sign in. However, you can also use magic links for other purposes, such as re-engaging users, onboarding new users, or directing users to specific app screens. While magic links usually include an authentication payload identifying the user, they can also be used for non-authentication purposes.

In many cases, you can replace Branch or Firebase Dynamic Links with Rownd magic links, as they provide similar functionality at no additional cost with the added benefit of integrated authentication.

  • Integrated authentication: Unlike standard Magic links, Rownd’s Magic Links also manage user sign-in and verification, providing a streamlined login experience across devices and platforms.
  • Security first: Each link is dynamically generated to verify user identity and restrict unauthorized access.
  • Cross-platform: Rownd magic links are optimized for use across web, iOS, and Android, ensuring a consistent experience.
  • Unauthenticated / bulk links: Create reusable links for bulk distribution with a customized call-to-action. Deep link into your app or website or trigger app downloads from the correct app store. This allows users to directly access the download link without requiring authentication.

During email or SMS sign-in, Rownd automatically generates magic links on your behalf and sends them to the user. However, you can also programmatically create magic links using the Rownd API. This allows you to customize the link’s behavior, such as redirecting users to specific app screens or triggering custom actions.

To create a magic link, see our API documentation.

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Example Request

Here’s a basic example of how to create a Magic Link using Rownd’s API:

POST https://api.rownd.io/hub/auth/magic
Content-Type: application/json
X-Rownd-App-Key: YOUR_APP_KEY
X-Rownd-App-Secret: YOUR_APP_SECRET

{
  "data": {
    "email": "user@example.com"
  },
  "redirect_url": "https://yourapp.com/welcome"
}

This request will create a Magic Link that authenticates the user when accessed and redirects them to the specified URL.

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Example Response

{
  "link": "https://rownd.link/YOUR_UNIQUE_MAGIC_LINK"
}

You can then send this link to the user.

If you’re only using magic links on a web platform, then no additional setup is required. However, if you’re using Rownd on a mobile platform like iOS or Android, you’ll need to add some configuration to your app and the Rownd dashboard to get everything working properly.

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iOS setup

Apple requires several changes to your app’s configuration to handle magic links. They also require an Apple App Site Association (AASA) file to be properly configured; however, Rownd builds and hosts this file for you.

To complete the required setup, follow the iOS configuration steps.

After setup, test your links on a physical device to confirm they redirect correctly into the app.

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Android setup

Android apps require an intent filter in the AndroidManifest.xml file to handle magic links. Android also requires a Digital Asset Links JSON file to be properly configured; however, Rownd builds and hosts this file for you.

To complete the required setup, follow the Android configuration steps.

After setup, test your links on a physical device to confirm they redirect correctly into the app.

After you’ve configured and tested your mobile apps to handle magic links, you can also direct your mobile users to a special magic link endpoint that will automatically launch your app if it’s installed or otherwise direct the user to your app listing on the appropriate app store for their device.

To use this link, simply append /download to your Rownd subdomain (configured in Mobile settings). For example, if your subdomain is myapp, then the download link would be https://myapp.rownd.link/download.

If the user is not on iOS or Android when they activate this link, it’ll simply redirect them to your Rownd app’s default URL

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Additional Resources

For more details on configuring and customizing Magic Links in Rownd, refer to the following:

This setup should help you get started with implementing Magic Links in Rownd. For any additional questions, feel free to reach out to our support team or consult the API reference.

WebhooksAuthenticated links