ReadMe subdomain redirect after custom-domain cutover
Keep the old `readme.io` hostname alive as an automatic redirect after moving docs onto your branded domain, so every old link still arrives on the owned surface.
Why this can grow a startup
Docs migrations leak trust when old bookmarks, old support replies, and old community links suddenly land on a dead host or the wrong place. ReadMe's redirect behavior gives teams a cleaner cutover: the original vendor subdomain can keep sending visitors to the custom domain without asking every referrer to update first. That preserves discovery, lowers migration friction, and makes the branded docs feel like a continuation instead of a relaunch.
Company example
ReadMe says that once a project is configured with a custom domain, visitors to the original `readme.io` subdomain are automatically redirected to the custom domain.
Source and metric
Source: ReadMe Docs · Browse ReadMe Docs tactics
ReadMe automatically redirects the original `readme.io` subdomain to the custom domain after setup.
Source discovered: May 28, 2026
When to use it
Use this when Documentation, SEO, Brand is relevant to migration, brand trust, technical seo and you can run a bounded test with a free budget.
When not to use it
Do not use it as a substitute for customer evidence, a clear owner, or a measurable stop condition. Local platform rules and market behavior still need checking.
Founder checklist
- Read ReadMe Docs and identify what is directly supported.
- Choose one channel context: Documentation, SEO, Brand.
- Define the test around ReadMe automatically redirects the original `readme.io` subdomain to the custom domain after setup..
- Set an owner, evidence window, and stop condition before launch.
Explore the context
Apply this with an operator
Turn isolated search tactics into a crawlable visibility system tied to demand and proof.