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In this guide, you’ll learn how to:
  • Enable your Android device to install apps from outside the Play Store.
  • Locate and launch the APK you downloaded.
  • Complete installation safely in just a few taps.

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Before you begin

You’ll need:
  • An Android device running version 8.0 or higher.
  • The APK file, downloaded or transferred to your device.

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Install your APK manually

1

Get the APK onto your device

Save the APK file to your Android phone or tablet.
  • If you downloaded it from a browser, check the Downloads folder.
  • If you received it via email or chat, open the file from that app.
Success check: You see a file ending in .apk inside your Files app.
2

Start the installation

Open your device’s Files or Downloads app, then tap the APK file.
  • A system prompt will appear asking if you want to install the app.
System prompt triggered after tapping the APK file to start installation.

Install prompt from APK file

Success check: Android asks whether you want to install the app.
3

Allow unknown app installs

If this is your first time, Android may block the install and show a warning.
  • Tap Settings in the popup.
  • Toggle on Allow from this source.
  • Tap the back arrow to return to the install screen.
Android settings screen showing 'Allow from this source' toggle enabled.

Enable install from this source

Why this matters:
By default, Android blocks third-party app installs. Enabling this setting allows trusted installs from your chosen app source without repeating the step.
Success check: You’re back on the install screen and can proceed.
4

Finish installing the app

Tap Install and wait a few seconds.
  • Once done, you’ll see App installed.
  • Tap Open to launch it, or find it later in your app drawer.
Success check: The app opens or appears in your app list.
Security tip:
After installation, we recommend disabling “Allow from this source” to protect your device.Go to:
Settings → Apps & notifications → Special app access → Install unknown apps
Select the app you used (like Chrome or Gmail), then turn off the permission.

You did it!

Your app is installed and ready to test.
You can launch it directly from your device anytime.
Need help or hit a roadblock?
Email us at [email protected]. We’re here to help.