Used Glovebox for Android?


Editors’ Review

Download.com staff

Glovebox, from FBarrosoApps, is a gesture-driven sidebar launcher for Android that exposes app shortcuts and widgets via an edge swipe. The app provides a quick-access panel for launching apps, folders, and pinned widgets without returning to the home screen or app drawer. It supports custom themes, third-party icon packs, and configurable trigger zones. Glovebox targets Android power users and enthusiasts who want faster multitasking and visible control over sidebar placement and sensitivity.

Top Recommended Alternative

The app replaces repeated navigation steps with a persistent edge panel that users summon with a swipe from a configurable screen edge. It hosts app shortcuts, folders and widgets so users can jump directly to commonly used items instead of opening the app drawer or switching home panels. Visual behavior follows an Ubuntu Touch-inspired movement style, with fluid animations that aim to keep interaction brief and focused.

What does Glovebox add to Android multitasking?

How much can you customize the sidebar with Glovebox?

Customization covers visual and interaction layers: users can apply custom themes, use third-party icon packs, group apps into folders inside the panel, and pin widgets and system shortcuts. Trigger zones are fully adjustable for position, size and sensitivity so the sidebar can fit different hand grips. A blacklist option prevents the panel from appearing in specified foreground apps, letting users avoid interference during full-screen tasks.

Does Glovebox affect device performance or startup?

Glovebox presents itself as a lightweight alternative to full launcher replacements, which suggests a modest background footprint compared with replacing the home experience. Contemporary reports cited fluid performance and polished animations during normal use. Animated transitions and pinned widgets can increase resource use on lower-end hardware, so users with older devices should expect a measurable but contained impact while the panel is active.

Is Glovebox easy to set up and keep using?

Initial setup centers on defining the trigger area and adding shortcuts or widgets, steps exposed through the app interface rather than deep system menus. Power users can fine-tune sensitivity and placement to match handling habits, while the blacklist and folder support make daily use predictable. The app targets enthusiasts who accept a short configuration phase to achieve faster multitasking workflows.

Enlarged image for Glovebox
Glovebox 0/4
  • Pros

    • Edge-swipe activation for quick app access without the app drawer
    • Per-monitor-like trigger tuning via adjustable position, size, and sensitivity
    • Supports third-party icon packs and custom themes for visual alignment
    • Blacklist feature prevents the panel in chosen foreground apps
  • Cons

    • Requires manual trigger tuning to avoid accidental activations
    • Animated transitions and widgets increase resource use on older devices
    • Not a full replacement for a home launcher, it's a sidebar utility

Bottom Line

The app suits users who accept a bit of setup for faster access

The app is a practical option for Android power users who want edge-access to apps and shortcuts without replacing the home launcher. Expect a short configuration phase to tune trigger placement and sensitivity, and consider older devices may show higher resource use when animations and widgets are active. The tool fits anyone looking to speed app switching via a persistent, gesture-activated panel.


Used Glovebox for Android?


Explore More


Full Specifications

GENERAL
Release
Latest update
Version
1.7b
OPERATING SYSTEMS
Platform
Android
Operating System
Android 13.0
POPULARITY
Total Downloads
63
Downloads Last Week
0

Report Software

Program available in other languages


Last Updated


Developer’s Description

Glovebox brings to android the best way of multi tasking.
Glovebox brings to android the best way of multi tasking.Swipe without lifting the finger to select an application to open.Features:- Apps/Shortcuts/Widgets on side bar.- Reorder apps.- Personalize side bar.Full Review:http://www.droid-life.com/2013/02/21/glovebox-for-android-a-beautiful-app-switcher-taking-design-love-from-ubuntu/XDA Developers Thread:http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=37600464#post37600464Help:Got the old premium version?Send an email so you don't have to purchase it again.Extra InfoIcons used on main screenshothttp://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1701281Keywords & Tags:multitasking, side launcher, sidebar, ubuntu, unity, apps, touch os, task, switch, widgetsRecent changes:Version 2.0.905:-Fixed fc when screen rotate;-Fixed other bugs;Version 2.0.902:-New mode to configure the margin;-Fixed default values of configuration;-New option to disable in landscape mode;Version 2.0.9:-Fixed bug starting app already open;-Fixed widget fc;-Fixed applications selection duplicates;-Fixed other bugs.Version 2.0.8:-Improved speed;-Improved user interface;-Fixed screen freezing on some devices;-Fixed other bugs.Content rating: Everyone

Download.com
Your review for Glovebox