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This guide walks you through installing an APK (Android Package) file on your Android device. This is sometimes called “sideloading” because the app comes from outside the Google Play Store.You will 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

1

Locate the APK on your device

Find the APK file on your 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.
2

Tap the APK to start installation

Open your device’s Files or Downloads app and 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.
3

Allow unknown app installs

If this is your first time installing an APK, Android may block the install and show a warning.
  1. Tap Settings in the popup.
  2. Toggle on Allow from this source.
  3. Tap the back arrow to return to the install screen.
Android settings screen showing Allow from this source toggle enabled.
By default, Android blocks third-party app installs. Enabling this setting allows trusted installs from your chosen app source without repeating the step each time.
4

Finish installing

Tap Install and wait a few seconds. Once done, you will see App installed. Tap Open to launch it, or find it later in your app drawer.
After installation, consider 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.

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What’s next?

Publish to Google Play

Ready for production? Submit your app to the Google Play Store.

Share via web link

Launch your mobile app as a web app so anyone can access it from a browser.

Sharing vs. stores

Compare web links, downloadable builds, and app store submissions.