
What is an APK file and how do I use one?.While that might seem contradictory with providing a guide on how to install from outside Google Play, as long as you know (and trust) where your apps are coming from. There's a reason that installing APKs from unknown sources is switched off by default in Android: it's inherently unsafe to download random APKs from the web and install them on your phone. Allowing this kind of blanket access can be risky, so if you want to do this, it's a good idea to head back into settings and toggle off the unknown sources option once you've got the app you wanted. This will enable you to install apps downloaded from any source outside of the Google Play Store. On devices running Android 7.0 Nougat or earlier, try the following path: Settings > Security > allow installation from unknown sources. Keep in mind that there can be additional security prompts or prompts to allow the installation of files from unknown sources on some devices or older versions of Android. You can always go back to the settings menu and disallow this after you're done installing your APKs of choice. If you still have trouble finding these options in settings, you can simply use the search option and type in ' unknown' or ' install', which should save you some time.īy checking 'allow from this source', you'll now be able to install APK files downloaded from your browser. How to find the sideloading options on an Oppo. Chrome), tap it and select Allow from this source.


