When you first install from a non-Google source on newer Android versions, you see a prompt like this. Search online for an APK file and download it to an easy-to-find location on your computer (like your desktop).

Here's how it works.įirst, you must find the APK file you want. You don't need a smartphone to download and install APK files. How to install APK Files from your computer

The app will begin installing on your device.

Once it's downloaded, open the Downloads folder, tap on the APK file, and tap Yes when prompted.

Just open your browser, find the APK file you want to download, and tap it–you should then be able to see it downloading on the top bar of your device.

You can install APK files on your Android smartphone or tablet directly from your browser.

How to install an APK on your Android device Do some research before you download so you don't do anything against the law or contaminate your device. Worse still, sketchy APK files may contain malware, as many who thought they were getting early versions of Fortnite for Android discovered to their dismay. Some APK services let you download pirated apps.

Accidentally deleted the Google Play Store?, here's how to get the APK and restore itīe careful though, you don't want to download stolen apps.

Getting the latest APK for your favorite apps will let you jump the queue. Or you might even not like a particular app after an update, and want to install an older version instead.Īnd if your Android device lacks access to the Google Play Store, APK files may be your only option for installing apps on your device. App updates can take a frustrating amount of time to arrive automatically over the air. Also, some apps are restricted to regions outside of your own.

How to install AAB files on your Android smartphone?ĪPK files of new Android builds are often leaked ahead of time, giving you early access to all the exciting new features that otherwise wouldn't be available to you.

But because AAB files are custom-made for each device, they require different steps to install. In 2021, Google started phasing out APK files on the Play Store, replacing them with the more flexible AAB format. But there are occasions when you would want to do otherwise. Most users get apps from the Google Play Store, without ever seeing the word APK. When you download an APK online, you're essentially getting an app.

exe file for installing software, the APK does the same for Android. How to install APK Files from your computerĭevice Offer: Google Pixel 6a (with fallback offer from AMAZON) What is an APK File?Īn Android Package Kit (APK for short) is the package file format used by the Android operating system for the distribution and installation of mobile apps.How to install an APK on your Android device.Why would I want to install an APK File?.

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