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Shuvodip Ray
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YouTube • 6m
Ever wondered how URL shorteners make money? Take AdFly, for example. Launched in 2009, it turned link sharing into a multi-million-dollar business. Here’s how: when someone clicked on a shortened link, they were shown ads before reaching the final destination. This simple idea generated huge ad revenue, a portion of which AdFly shared with users, motivating millions to spread links widely. At its peak, AdFly processed over 1 billion clicks annually, earning an estimated $4–10 million per year from advertisers. While the platform rewarded users generously, it also faced criticism for intrusive ads and challenges from ad blockers. Despite these hurdles, AdFly proved that even a basic concept, when combined with clever monetization, could generate massive profits. This story is a testament to how innovative digital models can transform simple tools into thriving businesses. Could this inspire your next idea?
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