Ubuntu has been causing a stir since Canonical announced the release of the mobile operating system. We recently talked about a complementary launcher called Ubuntu Phone Experience, which sought to bring to Android what would become the Linux operating system of the future. However, it is now available for Google Play, and it comes with a new name. Now it is Glovebox.
Glovebox It's still the same as it was when it was called Ubuntu Phone Experience, a secondary launcher that lives in a hidden sidebar. This bar is easily accessible by swiping from the left end to the right, thus opening a small list with the icons of the applications that we had previously configured. The best thing is that the style that has been used is really striking, with large icons, something that Android lacks in essence, unless we opt for modifications and third-party applications how are you.
Glovebox adds an interesting detail, and it seems that in the future we will have icon packsIn the example itself, you can see a square Chrome icon with rounded corners. There's no doubt that this icon isn't Google's, but it has a very pleasing aesthetic. If all icons could be changed by selecting the desired icon pack, it would be a feature many users would benefit from.
On the other hand, we can also acquire Glovebox paid, a version that allows us to add more icons than the limit indicates. In any case, the free version is quite complete and allows us to customize the basic elements, which is more than enough for us to take advantage of the application and adapt it to our tastes. Glovebox It is now available on Google Play so that we can download it directly from the store officially.
How it works and what it provides
the key of Glovebox is accessibility from any screen: You can open the sidebar without returning to the desktop and switch between apps in one gesture. It also allows locate the trigger on the left, right, and even the top and bottom edges, to adapt it to your hand or screen size. The gesture is natural: swipe in from the edge and, without releasing, swipe through the icons until the app launches.
Compared to traditional navigation (exit, go to the launcher and tap another app), this bar reduces steps and speeds up multitaskingFor those who work with messaging, browsing, and maps simultaneously, this is an immediate productivity boost.
Advanced customization
Beyond icon packs, you can sort shortcuts to prioritize the ones you use most at the top and leave the less frequently used ones at the bottom. trigger It is configurable in size, opacity, and style, so it doesn't get in the way when browsing full-screen apps. The design adopts a clean aesthetic, with big icons and smooth animations that fit Android.
Versions and limits
The free version allows you to create a functional bar with a limited number of accesses (usually in the range of 8–9, depending on configuration). The version Premium Unlock unlimited access, add extra customization options and even support for widgets on the bar, ideal for immediate actions such as playing music or toggles.
Version Premium Unlock unlimited access, add extra customization options and even support for widgets in the Notification bar, ideal for immediate actions such as playing music or toggles.
Compatibility, performance and important note
Glovebox is designed to offer a light consumption and move smoothly on most modern Android devices. Like any complementary launcher, it is a good idea to adjust the edge sensitivity and opacity to prevent accidental activations in games or videos.
There is a third-party application called GloveBox oriented payments; is not related to this launcher for AndroidIf you're looking for the Ubuntu-style sidebar, make sure you've identified the correct app on Google Play.
For those who want to improve their daily workflow with quick access, gestures and careful aesthetics, Glovebox offers an effective solution that brings the spirit of Ubuntu to Android without complications or complex configurations.
