Here’s what Glance’s Android lockscreen actually does in the US, and how to turn it off [Gallery]

Glance’s U.S. Debut: A Subtle Start on Android Lockscreens

Glance, the company known for transforming Android lockscreens into personalized content hubs, has officially made its way to the United States. In contrast to its more aggressive approach overseas, where users encounter a mix of ads, games, and content, the U.S. version presents itself as a gentler addition to the lockscreen landscape.

Already a common sight on phones in India, Glance’s lockscreen application offers a variety of personalized content, including news and games, often accompanied by advertisements. This week, reports confirmed that Glance is initiating its U.S. presence, a move that was previously hinted at with its appearance on select Motorola devices.

The Moto G Power (2024) serves as a showcase for Glance’s U.S. iteration. During the setup process, Motorola prompts users to activate Glance, enticing them with a “lockscreen reimagined” that promises live information and tailored recommendations. Once enabled, users can expect to see local weather updates and a stream of personalized news directly on their lockscreen.

So far, the Glance experience seems to be centered around news delivery, particularly political stories, which appear in a dedicated widget above notifications. Users have the option to customize the content feed, choosing from categories like politics, sports, entertainment, and international news.

Despite initial concerns, the Glance feature appears to be relatively unobtrusive, functioning similarly to a persistent news notification. It’s a seamless integration that could be seen as a positive development, although it may set the stage for future expansions, including advertisements and interactive content.

For those who prefer a traditional lockscreen, disabling Glance is straightforward. A quick visit to the Settings menu allows users to turn off the feature without hassle. However, as noted by Android Central, the app may occasionally prompt users to reconsider their decision with a full-screen reminder.

With Glance’s entry into the U.S. market, the conversation around lockscreen content and advertising is sure to continue. The company’s approach will be closely watched as it balances user experience with its content and advertising ambitions.

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