The link (URL) to go to the bot may contain a code (key) that can be used in the script conditions and direct the client to the appropriate branch of the script. This way you can start interacting with the client from a specific point in the scenario.
Deep (hidden) links are used in Telegram, Viber, VKontakte and WhatsApp.
Creating a deep link
Add information (keyword or phrase) that will point to the desired action or location in your bot.
Requirements for a keyword or phrase:
- uniqueness for defining a specific action (cannot be used several times in one scenario);
- no special characters, spaces, Russian letters.
Examples of creating deep links for various platforms:
| Name | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Telegram | parameters after "?start=" | https://t.me/YourBotName?start=key-code |
| Viber | parameters after "=" | viber://pa?context=key-code |
| parameters after “=”, there is no way to hide text from the link, it will be visible to the user | https://wa.me/phoneNumber?te=key-code | |
| Вконтакте | parameters after "&start=" | https://vk.com/im?sel=botID&start=key-code |
key-code - in this example, this is the keyword to go to the desired point in the script.
Type of link in the address bar:
| Initial link to the bot | Deep link to bot |
|---|---|
| https://t.me/Test22122023_Bot | https://t.me/Test22122023_Bot?start=primer1 |
Using deep linking in bot builder
1. Make sure that your Telegram bot is connected to the company line in your Personal Account.
2. Check that the messenger and Telegram bot are connected to your bot.
3. Create a script according to your wishes and requirements. In the “Reaction to phrase” block, add a keyword that will be used in the deep link. Add an appropriate block with feedback from the bot, for example, “Send a message”.
4. Save and publish the script.
5. Enter the deep link into your browser's address bar. The application with the bot will open and the script will begin from the moment specified by the keyword.
The bot designer sees the deep link, but the messenger user does not see it in the text of the message.