Installing Third Party Apps for Android

To install a third party app on Android, you download its .apk file, allow the app that opened it (usually your browser or file manager) to install unknown apps, and tap Install. This is called sideloading. Android allows it by design, which is why developers use it to share test builds before they reach Google Play.

This guide covers the three common ways to install apps outside Google Play, the steps on current Android versions, and how to stay safe while doing it.

Three ways to install apps outside Google Play

1. From an APK file: downloaded from a website, a link a developer sent you, or a file shared by email or chat.
2. From another app store: such as the Samsung Galaxy Store (preinstalled on Samsung phones), the Amazon Appstore or F-Droid for open source apps.
3. From a test distribution link: a developer uploads a build to a service such as AppForShare and sends you an install link or QR code.

Is it safe?

It depends entirely on the source. Apps on Google Play are scanned before release. An APK from an unknown website may contain malware, so only install files from people or companies you trust, such as your own development team or a known store. Google Play Protect also checks apps you install from other sources and may warn you or block a harmful app.

How to install an APK on Android 8.0 and later

These steps apply to Android 8.0 (Oreo) through Android 15. Menu names vary slightly between manufacturers.

1. Open the download link in your browser, or find the .apk in the Files app under Downloads.
2. Tap the file. If this is the first time, Android says the app is not allowed to install unknown apps. Tap Settings.
3. Turn on Allow from this source, then tap back.
4. Tap Install. When it finishes, tap Open, or find the app in your app drawer.

You can also set the permission in advance under Settings, Apps, Special app access, Install unknown apps. Full steps with screenshots are in How to enable unknown sources on Android.

Older devices: Android 7.1 and earlier

Before Oreo there was one switch for the whole phone. Go to Settings, then Security, and turn on Unknown sources. Then open the .apk from your file manager and tap Install. Turn the switch off again afterwards.

Installing from another app store

1. Install the store app. Some come preinstalled, such as the Galaxy Store on Samsung phones. Others are installed from their own website as an APK, using the steps above.
2. When the store installs its first app, Android asks you to allow that store to install unknown apps. Allow it.
3. From then on, install apps from the store as you would from Google Play.

Installing a test build from AppForShare

If a developer shares a build with you through AppForShare:

1. Open the link on your phone, or scan the QR code with your camera.
2. Enter the password if the developer set one.
3. Check the app name, version and build number on the install page, then tap Install.
4. Allow your browser to install unknown apps the first time, then confirm the install.

You do not need an AppForShare account to install a shared build. Links are live for a set time depending on the developer's plan, from 3 days for guest uploads to as long as the subscription lasts on Pro and Team, so install soon after you receive the link.

If you are the developer, see How to use AppForShare to send .apk or .ipa files to your clients.

When the app will not install

• "App not installed" or a conflict message: an existing version of the app was signed with a different key, or is newer than the one you are installing. Uninstall the existing app first. Its data will be lost.
• Incompatible device: the app needs a newer Android version, or a processor type your phone does not have.
• App built for a very old Android version: recent Android releases refuse to install apps that target very old SDK levels. The developer has to update the build.
• An .aab file: Android App Bundles cannot be installed directly. Ask for an .apk.
• Blocked by Play Protect: if you trust the source, check the warning details. If you do not, do not install it.

Frequently asked questions

How do I install a third party app on Android?

Download the .apk, tap it, allow the browser or file manager to install unknown apps when Android asks, and tap Install. On Android 8.0 and later the permission is per app.

Is installing APKs from outside Google Play safe?

It is as safe as the source. Only install files from developers or stores you trust, and leave Google Play Protect turned on.

Do I need an AppForShare account to install a build someone shared with me?

No. Open the link or scan the QR code on your phone and tap Install. Only the person uploading builds needs an account, and guest uploads work without one.

Why does Android say "App not installed"?

Usually because a version of the app signed with a different key is already installed, or the app does not support your device. Uninstall the existing version and try again, or ask the developer for a compatible build.