
Where to Sideload an APK fileĪn Android Package Kit (APK) is an executable file that installs an Android app. However, updates for the app may require the option to be enabled again. NOTE: You CAN disable unknown sources after the third-party installation is complete. If your smartphone is not protected enough, it could get infected. This option can put your device at risk since it allows all unknown sources to store files rather than on an app-by-app basis. Using the above steps, you will have access to any APKs you want to install, as long as they are compatible with your device.
Instead, you have to trigger an option for downloading files from all available sources. With older Android versions (7.0 Nougat or lower), the system doesn’t split the sources. Install from Unknown Sources in Android 7.0 Nougat, 6.0 Marshmallow, or Older Android 8 controls the installation permissions through individual apps rather than all of them at once, so you need to allow the browser to perform installations. The above steps allow your browser to get apps from sources other than Google Play.
Choose the internet browser that you will use for the third-party stores. Find and select the Apps & notifications menu. Install from Unknown Sources in Android 8.0 Oreo Tap the toggle switch next to Allow from this source. Tap on the application that you’ll use to download the files. Scroll down and tap on Biometrics and security. Swipe down from the top of your screen and tap on the Settings cog. Install from Unknown Sources in Android 10 We’ll review the methods for various versions below. There are a few different methods, depending on your Android version. After all, why would Google want that option? Since all other methods are not as reliable, you should venture beyond the Play Store with care.īefore you start sideloading apps, you have to modify the system settings on your Android device. The Android operating system doesn’t allow you to download any apps outside of Play Store by default. Modify Your Android Settings to Download Apps Outside Google Play This article will explain how to download your Android apps from sources other than Google Play. However, there are several ways to obtain what you need if you despise the Play Store or it doesn’t have the app you desire. However, Google has security holes, too, as proven with all the deleted malware and spyware apps in 2020 that copied other apps, changed their names, and injected malware. If you are an Android user, the Google Play Store is the most secure and convenient way to get apps.