22 April 2024 Leave a comment Tech-Help
Understanding the Issue
Developers often need to test deep link URLs to ensure they launch their apps correctly. However, they might encounter issues when using ADB (Android Debug Bridge) commands. The problem arises when specifying only the package name in the ADB command, which results in an error indicating that the activity cannot be started. This leads to confusion, as external apps or browsers that use deep links do not require the activity path to launch the app.
Proper Usage of ADB for Deep Link Testing
To test deep links, you don’t need to specify the full path to your activity. The correct command format is as follows:
adb shell am start -a android.intent.action.VIEW -d "example://gizmos" com.myapp
A common mistake is to use an incorrect URI scheme. Ensure that your URI is formatted properly with double slashes, as in example://gizmos, not example:gizmos.
Alternative Testing Methods
Using Android Studio for Deep Link Testing
Android Studio offers a more integrated approach for testing deep links. You can use the App Links Assistant by selecting Tools > App Links Assistant > Test App Links, then enter the URL you wish to test and click Run Test. This feature streamlines the process and allows you to test multiple URLs efficiently.
External Deep Link Testing Apps
If you prefer not to use ADB commands, there are third-party apps available on the Google Play Store that allow you to test deep links directly on your Android device. These apps often provide a user-friendly interface for inputting and testing your URLs.
Deep Link Testing and Automation with Repeato
When it comes to automating deep link testing, Repeato can be an invaluable tool. Repeato’s no-code test automation platform simplifies the creation, execution, and maintenance of automated tests for your Android and iOS apps. With its ability to work across various app frameworks and its integration of ADB commands, Repeato streamlines the testing process, including deep link verification.
By leveraging computer vision and AI, Repeato ensures that your tests remain robust and adaptable to UI changes. This is particularly useful when testing deep links, as you can automate the entire flow from launching the app via a deep link to verifying the correct app behavior upon launch.
Conclusion
Testing deep links is a critical part of the development process, ensuring that users can navigate to your app from other apps or webpages seamlessly. By using the correct ADB commands or the Android Studio interface, you can test these links effectively. For a more comprehensive testing strategy, consider incorporating Repeato to automate and streamline your deep link testing, saving time and increasing accuracy.
