It's a fair question: why does Glass Analytics use Google Analytics with Google Ads, especially when our core mission is to provide a privacy-first alternative?
Why We Use Google Analytics on GlassAnalytics.com#
At first glance, using Google Analytics might seem contradictory for a company that champions privacy-friendly analytics. However, there's a straightforward reason: Google Analytics is required for effective Google Ads conversion tracking.
While Glass Analytics offers robust, privacy-focused features—like real-time insights, heatmaps, and automatic event tracking—we also rely on paid advertising to grow. And Google Analytics is deeply embedded in how Google Ads measures success.
Glass Tracks Conversions Too – But There's a Catch#
Glass is fully capable of tracking conversions on its own. With automatic event detection, support for ad network integrations, and real-time dashboards, Glass helps you analyze what matters without invading user privacy.
But here's the catch: Google Ads doesn't accept third-party analytics tools for its native conversion tracking. It's designed to work hand-in-hand with Google Analytics.
So if you're running campaigns through Google Ads, you're often required to implement Google Analytics or Google Tag Manager to access full functionality.
Dual Tracking: Glass + Google Analytics#
Unlike some other privacy-first tools like Plausible or Fathom, we don't take a purist stance. Glass is designed to integrate into your existing analytics ecosystem, whether you want to replace Google Analytics entirely or run both side-by-side.
We believe dual tracking is often the most practical solution. It allows teams to reconcile differences between platforms, experiment with new tools without disruption, and maintain compatibility with legacy setups like Google Tag Manager.
How We Handle Privacy When Using Google Tools#
When visitors arrive at GlassAnalytics.com through a Google Ads campaign in a GDPR region, we explicitly ask for consent before loading Google Analytics. This is part of our commitment to user privacy and GDPR compliance.
Glass itself does not rely on cookies or invasive tracking. It's built to respect user privacy by default.
Why We Use Google Ads at All#
To grow Glass Analytics quickly, we need to reach people where they already search for analytics solutions. Google Ads is one of the most effective ways to scale a SaaS business, especially in a competitive space.
The more people who use Glass, the better the product becomes. Paid acquisition helps us onboard new users faster, gather feedback, and accelerate development.
In Summary#
- Yes, we use Google Analytics – but only for Google Ads conversion tracking.
- Glass can track everything independently, but Google Ads doesn't allow third-party tracking for conversions.
- We believe dual tracking is a smart strategy, especially for teams migrating away from legacy tools.
- Consent is always requested before loading Google tools on our website.
- Paid ads are a growth lever to help us build a better product for more people.
Extra Notes for the Determined Reader#
"Google Ads requires Google Analytics for conversion tracking."
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Not strictly true.
Google Ads has its own conversion tracking pixel, and you don't have to use Google Analytics. However:
- If you want advanced tracking (e.g. behavioral goals or GA4 audience retargeting), Google Analytics is recommended.
- Using GA4 can streamline reporting and audience setup, especially when using enhanced conversions or cross-domain tracking.
- Google pushes the GA4 + Ads combo hard, and many features (like Smart Goals, remarketing lists) require it.
"Google Ads doesn't accept third-party tools for conversion tracking."
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Again, not entirely true. You can use third-party tools, but:
- You'd need to manually import offline conversions or use the Google Ads API.
- Google won't automatically optimize for conversions from third-party tools unless they're passed back in the way Google supports.
Want privacy-focused, powerful analytics?
👉 Try Glass Analytics today and get actionable insights – without compromising data privacy.
