To track the open rate, Short.io uses a transparent pixel image. This image is inserted in the bottom of the emails so as not to spoil the layout. The image is invisible, so neither you nor recipients see it.

The advantage of using the URL shortener for tracking open rate is that the image is coded with a short branded link. That prevents it from ending up in the spam folder.

Tracking open rate with Short.io is not just about determining the number of opened emails. Short.io allows you to define the target audience more precisely. Clickstream, top countries, operating systems, top browsers, and time of clicks are available on Short.io for tracking.

Straight to the video guide or read the instruction below on how to set up OR tracking:

1. Go to Short.io to shorten the link: https://short.io/images/empty.gif. It's a transparent image for the emails.
​ 2. Head to an email provider.
​ 3. Create a new message.
​ 4. Choose Insert photo.

5. Select Web-address (URL).

6. Paste the shortened link.

7. Send the message.

When a recipient opens the email, you'll see his/her click in Short.io statistics.

The video guide below helps you to set up tracking correctly.