If you understood the title of this article we figured we might as well just cut to the chase…
What does this deletion of Google Universal Analytics mean?
- Legacy data in Universal Google Analytics Accounts will be available until July 1, 2024 – based on recent announcements (UA historical data supported until 2024).
- Can you just ignore this and hope the problem solves itself: nope
- Yes, this is as annoying as you think it is. Here is an article about the differences between UA and GA4.
How do I export Universal Analytics?
Thought you would never ask, here are free ways to export your Google Universal Analytics.
Why is Google Analytics doing this?
This is completely our view based on reading between the lines and also watching increasing regulations like GDPR and evolving data tracking through cookie policies. The rules changed underneath this useful product and it seems like there may be bigger issues at play around prepping for the future of privacy regulations. We think there is a reason why this is the first bullet in the announcement:
Thanks, but I’m still frustrated
Yup, we kinda get what we pay for in this game… If you are next level frustrated with team Google you can explore open source web tracking solutions like Matomo which are really cool, BUT be aware that as of April 2022, the Google Ad Grant requires a working GA account.
Also, here is a song to keep on repeat while you do the work…