What Are SMS Magic Links?
SMS magic links are secure, one-tap links sent via text message that give clients instant access to project updates. No passwords to remember. No app to download. Clients tap the link and see their project timeline immediately in their browser.
This is why clients actually use Trace—zero friction.
How Magic Links Work
Contractor posts update
Takes 30 seconds from the mobile app. Add photos, update stage progress, write a note.
Client receives SMS
Automatic text message with a unique, secure link. No action needed from contractor.
Client taps to view
One tap opens the project timeline in their browser. No login, no password, instant access.
Link expires for security
Links are time-limited and can be revoked. Only the client's phone number can access.
Why Magic Links Beat Passwords
Traditional client portals require passwords. Here's why that fails:
- Clients forget passwords — they haven't logged in since last month
- Password reset friction — they give up and just text you instead
- Security issues — clients reuse passwords or write them on sticky notes
- Support burden — you waste time helping clients log in
Magic links solve all of this. The client's phone number is their authentication. They tap and they're in.
Are Magic Links Secure?
Yes. Trace magic links include multiple security layers:
- Encryption — Links are cryptographically signed
- Expiration — Links expire after a configurable time period
- Phone verification — Only works from the client's registered phone
- Revocation — Contractors can invalidate links instantly
- No stored credentials — Nothing to hack or leak
Security experts actually recommend magic links over passwords for consumer applications because they eliminate the #1 attack vector: reused and weak passwords.
What Clients See
When a client taps their magic link, they see:
- A clean, mobile-optimized timeline of their project
- Photos from the latest update
- Current stage and progress percentage
- Upcoming milestones and estimated dates
- History of all previous updates
No confusion, no clutter, no login screens. Just their project status.
See Magic Links in Action
Try the demo to experience how your clients will view updates.