What is Glide?

Glide is a no-code app builder that empowers anyone to create a fully functional barcode scanner app in minutes, turning raw data into intelligent, mobile-ready solutions without writing a single line of code. By connecting spreadsheets or databases directly to a drag-and-drop interface, Glide provides instant access to camera-based scanning, data storage, and real-time updates—so you can go from concept to deployment faster than ever.

Whether you need to track inventory in a warehouse, manage event check-ins, or streamline retail checkout, Glide’s intuitive platform handles the complexity behind the scenes. From automated workflows that update stock levels to dashboards that visualize scan history, every element is designed to support modern operations and eliminate manual bottlenecks.

Glide Overview

Founded in 2018 by David Siegel and his team, Glide set out to democratize app development by putting powerful, code-free tools into the hands of nontechnical users. The mission: make building professional-grade software as simple as creating a spreadsheet. Since its inception, Glide has attracted tens of thousands of organizations—ranging from local nonprofits to global enterprises—who rely on its flexible platform to optimize workflows.

Key milestones include launching AI-powered features in 2022, expanding integrations with services like Google Sheets and Airtable, and rolling out advanced Enterprise plans with SSO and priority support. Today, Glide stands out as a leader in the no-code space, consistently innovating to meet the needs of businesses seeking agile, data-driven applications.

Pros and Cons

Pro: Build a complete barcode scanner app without coding experience, saving time and development costs.

Pro: Seamless integration with popular data sources—Google Sheets, Glide Tables, and Airtable—ensuring your data stays in sync.

Pro: AI-powered workflows automate manual tasks like stock adjustments, notifications, and reporting.

Pro: Mobile-friendly layouts and camera access come out of the box for instant barcode scanning functionality.

Pro: Flexible pricing tiers—from a free plan for small projects to custom Enterprise solutions with up to 10 million data rows.

Pro: Custom branding, custom domains, and advanced security features (SSO, role-based access) for professional deployments.

Con: Offline scanning capabilities are limited; a stable internet connection is required for real-time syncing.

Con: Advanced API calls and complex automations may require a learning curve for users new to no-code platforms.

Features

Glide’s feature set is designed to address every stage of your barcode scanner app project, from data collection to reporting, with minimal setup.

Drag-and-Drop App Builder

Create interfaces by simply dragging components—lists, forms, buttons—onto screens. No scripting needed.

• Instant preview on desktop and mobile.
• Prebuilt templates for inventory, retail, events, and field service.
• Customizable layouts for branding and user experience.

Camera-Based Barcode Scanning

Enable scanning of 1D and 2D barcodes using device cameras, with scan results automatically populating your database.

• Supports UPC, QR, Code128, EAN and more.
• Real-time validation and error handling.
• Auto-focus and torch control for faster scans in low light.

Data Integrations & Storage

Connect your app to Google Sheets, Airtable, and Glide Tables to store scan records and related details.

• Bidirectional sync keeps data current across platforms.
• Row-level security to protect sensitive information.
• Automated backups and version history.

Workflows & Automation

Set triggers for barcode scans to automate tasks like stock updates, email notifications, or Slack alerts.

• Conditional logic for complex scenarios.
• Built-in connectors to popular apps (Zapier, Integromat).
• AI suggestions for workflow improvements.

Real-Time Dashboards

Visualize scan metrics—daily scans, top products, regional activity—on interactive charts and tables.

• Filter by date range, product category, or user.
• Custom KPIs and alerts for anomalies.
• Embed dashboards in portals for stakeholder access.

Glide Pricing

Select a plan that matches your team size, data volume, and support needs. Every plan gives you access to core barcode scanning and app-building features.

Free

Price: $0/month

• 1 app, 10 personal users
• Up to 25k data rows
• 40+ components
• Community support

Explorer

Price: $25/month

• 1 app, 100 personal users
• Workflows and integrations unlocked
• AI support
• 250 automated updates per month

Maker

Price: $60/month

• 3 apps, unlimited personal users
• Custom branding and domains
• Integration with Google Sheets and Airtable
• 500 automated updates per month

Business

Price: $249/month

• Unlimited apps, 30 users (expandable)
• Call API and Glide API access
• 5,000 automated updates per month
• Priority Glide Express support

Enterprise

Custom pricing

• Unlimited apps and users
• Up to 10M data rows
• SSO, custom terms, account manager
• Dedicated AI consultation and priority support

Glide Is Best For

Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, Glide adapts to your unique requirements, making it ideal for a variety of audiences.

Small Retailers

Manage store inventory and checkout processes using a mobile barcode scanner app that updates stock levels in real time.

Field Service Teams

Let technicians scan parts on the go, submit work orders, and capture proof-of-service without returning to the office.

Event Organizers

Accelerate attendee check-ins with QR code scanning, ticket validation, and on-the-fly badge printing.

Warehouse Managers

Optimize receiving, picking, and shipping workflows by tracking every item movement through barcode scans.

Enterprise IT Departments

Deploy secure, branded mobile apps across your organization with SSO, advanced user roles, and compliance controls.

Benefits of Using Glide

• Rapid Deployment: Launch a fully functional barcode scanner app in hours, not months.
• Cost Efficiency: Eliminate development fees and ongoing maintenance costs.
• Scalability: Scale from a single-user prototype to a global enterprise solution seamlessly.
• Flexibility: Customize workflows, interfaces, and data models to fit your exact needs.
• Real-Time Insights: Access up-to-the-minute dashboards to make data-driven decisions.
• Secure & Compliant: Ensure data integrity with role-based access, SSO, and encryption.

Customer Support

Glide’s support team is highly responsive, offering email, in-app chat, and dedicated help center resources. Business and Enterprise customers gain access to expedited responses through Glide Express and priority support channels.

From beginner tutorials to advanced API documentation, Glide provides step-by-step guides, video walkthroughs, and live webinars. A vibrant community forum connects you with other users, experts, and Glide’s product team for real-time advice and best practices.

External Reviews and Ratings

Users consistently praise Glide for its ease of use and rapid prototyping capabilities. Many highlight the barcode scanning feature as a game-changer for inventory management, noting how quickly they replaced legacy systems with custom apps built on Glide.

On G2 and Capterra, Glide holds an average rating of 4.8/5. A few users mention limitations around offline functionality and advanced API complexity, but Glide’s roadmap shows active development to address these gaps through upcoming updates and improved documentation.

Educational Resources and Community

Glide University offers structured courses covering app design, data modeling, and workflow automation. Regular live webinars and office hours let you get questions answered by Glide experts in real time.

Join the official Glide Community on Slack and the Glide Forum to share templates, ask for feedback, and collaborate on best practices. A robust library of blog posts, case studies, and tutorial videos ensures you’ll find guidance at every step of your barcode scanner app journey.

Conclusion

Building a robust barcode scanner app has never been easier than with Glide’s no-code platform. From instant camera scanning to automated workflows and real-time dashboards, Glide provides all the tools you need to streamline operations without writing code. Experience the difference today—Get Started with Glide for Free Today and transform the way you track, manage, and analyze your inventory.

Get Started with Glide for Free Today