Recommended Windows Software

Download a trial or buy instantly
Backup4all
Back-up from/to the cloud. Protect your data.
Configure once and forget about it.

doPDF
Create PDF files as simple as clicking on Print.
Free. No uploads. Available 24/7 on your computer.

Enable Third-Party App Installation on Android


Before you install APKs on your mobile device, it's important to know that by default, the Android OS doesn't allow it. This is a security measure, but it’s very easy to change this setting and allow installing APKs from unknown sources.

To enable the installation of apps from Unknown Sources on your Android device, please follow the instructions based on your Android version. For Older Android Versions (4.0, Lollipop 5.0, Marshmallow 6.0, Nougat 7.0):
  • Open your Android Settings.
  • Tap on Security.
  • Enable the option labeled Unknown sources
  • When prompted with a message, tap OK
  • Select Trust to confirm and enable Unknown Sources.

If you are using Android 9.0 or later, you need to allow Unknown Sources for each browser individually that wishes to install APK files. For example, if you have multiple browsers like Chrome and Firefox, you must enable Unknown Sources for both Chrome and Firefox.
For Older Android Versions (4.0, Lollipop 5.0, Marshmallow 6.0, Nougat 7.0):
  • Open your Android Settings.
  • Tap on Apps & Notifications.
  • Select Advanced or the three dots located at the top-right corner of the screen (options may vary depending on your device).
  • Choose Special App Access
  • Select Install Unknown Apps.



Now, you can choose the specific apps for which you want to allow sideloading of APK files. By following these steps, you can enable the Unknown Sources option on your Android device according to your specific Android version.

Installing APK Files on Android


Once you have download the APK on your phone, you will need to locate it. By default, your internet browser will automatically save it in the Downloads folder. Furthermore, most browsers provide a button to open the downloaded file immediately.

You can use this button, and a prompt will appear notifying you that you are about to install an app from unknown sources and displaying the permissions it requires. At the bottom of the prompt, you'll find the Cancel and Install buttons. After selecting Install, the installation process will commence, and once completed, you're all set.

There is one important aspect to note during the APK installation process. When you install an APK directly, a shortcut won’t be added to your home screen, but you can still find the app in your list of apps. You can manually add a shortcut to the home screen afterwards.

You don't necessarily have to download APK files directly on your mobile device. You can also download the files on your PC and transfer them to your phone or tablet (or use them in an emulator).