QlynkWhy does a Dropbox link open in the browser?
A Dropbox sharing link is long and full of unreadable characters, which makes it a pain to retype or print. Opened from a message, it usually appears in the browser. Qlynk recognizes file links (/s/), folder links (/sh/) and recent shares (/scl/) and prepares them to open in the Dropbox app.
How to do it with Qlynk
- In Dropbox, create and copy the sharing link for the file or folder.
- Paste it into Qlynk. With Pro, choose the end of the link.
- Share the short link: the file opens in the Dropbox app if it is installed.
On iPhone, Qlynk sends the original Dropbox address: iOS opens the app if it’s installed, with no error message. On Android, the link opens the app, or the web page if the app isn’t installed. On a computer, the page opens as usual.
When is it useful?
- Sending a client a folder of deliverables with a short address
- Printing a QR code to a PDF catalog
- Putting a readable link in an email for a large file
- Keeping the same short link when you replace the shared file
Which Dropbox links open the app?
| Link type | Example address |
|---|---|
| File | https://www.dropbox.com/s/abcdefghij/file.pdf |
| Folder | https://www.dropbox.com/sh/abcdefghij/AAAbbbCCC |
| Recent share | https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/abcdefghij/file.pdf |
Paste any of these addresses into Qlynk: the short link you get will open Dropbox on phones.
Frequently asked questions
Who can open the file?
That depends on your Dropbox sharing settings. Qlynk does not change them.
Can I change the file without changing the short link?
Yes, you can edit the destination of the short link in Qlynk.
Which addresses are recognized?
Those on dropbox.com with /s/, /sh/ or /scl/.