The Google Play Store is not the only one application catalog which you can count on. There are other websites that will provide you with very useful apps in a convenient and secure way, and you can even install programs manually from their installer file. In this article, we'll show you how. How to install apps that aren't on Google PlayWhat exactly is an APK, how to configure your mobile to allow these installations, and which alternative catalogs are more reliable.
First of all, you should know that you have to set up your phone to be able to install applications from places other than the official Play Store, as well as update apps without Google PlayThis won't take more than a minute. Later on you'll also see a basic security protocol to minimize risks when installing external apps.
What is an APK file and why is it used outside of Google Play?
When you install an application from Google Play, the system downloads a file in the background. installable packageThat package is, in most cases, a file with the extension . . Apk, acronym for Android Application PackageIt is the approximate equivalent of a EXE in Windows or a DMG on macOS: a file that contains all necessary resources, code, and metadata to install an app on your Android device.
Today, Google Play internally uses more advanced formats such as App Bundles (AAB)However, the result for the user is still a final APK file, which is what gets installed on the phone. When you download apps from external repositories like Uptodown, APK Mirror, or APK Pure, you usually get that APK file directly. APK file ready to install on your phone or tablet.
Using APKs has several advantages: you can access beta versions, get apps that haven't yet arrived in your region, install previous versions If an update has given you problems, or if you want to try modified versions from the developers, the price to pay is that... You lose Google's filtering and control layerTherefore, choosing the right font becomes essential.
Authorize applications from "unknown sources"
To allow your phone to download and install apps from outside the Google Play Store, follow these steps: Go to your [app name/device/etc.] Settings. Then click on the tab Advanced settings and then in Security. Here you will find an option called "Apps of unknown origin". Activate it, since with it you can install those applications that the phone does not consider as official. Check out these screenshots if you need it.
From here you can install apps from any other source. You will only have to open your mobile browser and access any of the websites that offer app downloads. Some of them even have own app so that it is more convenient for you to access its contents. Some reliable catalogs where you can find very popular .apk files are the following. Take note!
Differences between modern and older versions of Android
The system to allow Unknown origins It has changed over time. Android is an open system, but Google has been adding features. additional layers of security to the process of installing external apps.
In the most recent versions, there is no longer a single master switch; instead, you must decide. app by app Which apps can install APKs (for example, your browser, your file manager, etc.). This means that if you use Chrome to download an APK, you'll have to grant Chrome permission; if you want to install an APK from your file explorer another time, you'll also have to grant that specific app permission.
The positive thing is that You will only grant that permission once. to each application: from then on, the system will remember your choice. Additionally, you can go to Settings to revoke the permit whenever you want if you no longer need to install apps from that source.
In older versions of Android, the process was simpler but also less granular: it was enough to activate a checkbox "Unknown origins" in the system security section, and any app could initiate external installations.
It is not recommended under all circumstances, but if you need an app or APK from an external site, follow this security protocol.
This tutorial will teach you how to Enable "unknown sources" on Android and install apps from outside the Google Play StoreIt's a simple process that can be very useful. Android is an operating system that offers great freedom, and one of its key aspects is the ability to install apps from outside the official store.
However, it's important to remember that downloading apps from sources other than Google Play can be harmful. It could cause our Android device to become infected with malware. If we don't choose our software provider carefully, although it wouldn't be the first time that dangerous applications have slipped into the official store.
However, the process for enabling "unknown sources" is different depending on the Android version that you have. If you don't know which one your mobile phone or tablet includes, you can check it in one of these sections, depending on the manufacturer:
Settings -> System -> About of the phone
Settings -> Phone information / About the phone
The location may vary depending on the version, the manufacturer, and its customization layer, but in any case You'll see a similar section. Refer to the image, where it indicates which Android version you have. With this information, we will learn how to install apps from outside the official Google Play Store.
Android 8 and later
Since this version was released, "unknown origins" no longer exists in Android 8.0 OreoHowever, it still allows you to install APKs. In fact, it's simpler, so the new procedure has been maintained in Android 9, 10, 11 and later, although it can be a bit confusing the first time you try it.
The process almost always begins downloading the application's APK file from a website that interests us. Let's see how to do it by putting Fortnite For example, what is the most popular game outside of Google Play?
- After downloading the installer file From the corresponding website, we must click on "Open" at the end of the screen:
- Chrome (though it could be another browser or app) warns you that it cannot install unknown applications. Tap on «Settings» To solve it:
- In the window that appears, check the box. "Allow app downloads"Most often you'll install them from Chrome, but if you use other apps the menu is the same, only the name changes:
- Now press the back button and you'll see that the app is ready; you just need to tap on it. "Install" at the bottom of the screen after reviewing the permissions it requests:
- With this already We would have the application ready outside of Google Play.We can open it and use it normally.
- Fortnite is a peculiar example, because the initial APK only serves to install the Epic Games Store. Therefore, the store requests this permission again, but with the vast majority of apps, you only need to do it once.
- A will be displayed in the system bar notification to withdraw the permit that you have granted to Chrome. You must click it to make it disappear, although it is your decision whether you want to disable app installation from Chrome again or keep it for the future:
- The menu it takes you to is the equivalent to "unknown sources" in Android 8.0 Oreo and later, which is now organized by specific applications.
- To locate the future in this adjustment, the The route changes depending on the manufacturer., These are some examples:
Settings -> Apps & notifications -> Special app access -> Install unknown apps (Stock Android, including OnePlus, Motorola, Nokia, and Google Pixel)
Settings -> Security and privacy -> Additional settings -> Install apps from external sources (Huawei and Honor)
Settings -> Privacy -> Manage -> Special app access -> Install unknown apps (Xiaomi)
Settings -> Biometrics and security -> Install unknown apps (Samsung)
- If you ever need to enable or disable "unknown sources" starting with Android 8.0 Oreo, this section is the closest thing you'll find, and always It would have to be done in the different apps separately., it cannot be activated in a general way.
Android 7.0 Nougat and earlier versions
Android 7.0 Nougat It's been around for a while, but some smartphones still use it. So we'll see how to enable "unknown sources" in this version (and previous ones) with a step-by-step explanation:
- Go to «Settings» in the operating system's application menu.
- There, choose the section «Security«.
- You should look for the option of «Unknown origins» and activate it.
- A security warning will appear; you must accept it.
If you have a really old mobile phone, that uses Android 2.3 or earlierThe process differs slightly:
- Go to «Settings» in your device's application menu.
- There, choose the section «Applications«.
- You should look for the option of «Unknown sources» and activate it.
- A security warning appears; you have to accept it.
Uptodown
This Spanish catalog It offers apps for Android and other operating systems. If you want to avoid using Google Play at all costs, this website can be a good option, because you'll find many of the apps offered by the Google store there.
Uptodown has web version and own applicationThis allows you to download the APK directly or manage your apps from within the alternative store itself. It's especially useful if you want update manually your apps without going through Google Play, as it usually offers the latest versions quickly.
APK Mirror
This catalog offers a large number of popular apps that many users are eagerly awaiting. For example, sometimes an app that everyone is waiting for is launched but isn't yet available in the Spanish catalog. Don't worry, you can probably find it on APK Mirror. It's a safe and reliable website because they only offer apps with the developers' signatureYou can also find there beta versions of applications, in case you want to test news.
APK Mirror works like a very detailed repositoryYou can choose specific versions, check the compatible processor type or architecture, and in some cases, you'll need to use the installed app. APK Mirror Installer for handling App Bundle-type formats. It's an excellent option when you want a version concrete of an app and not just the latest one available.
Pure APK
If you are looking for an application that is not available in your country, this is one of the best options to get it. If in addition, you would like download the APK file of an application or a game, this website allows you to obtain it by pasting the url provided by Google Play of said game or application.
APK Pure also offers own installer in the form of an app, which lets you update games and applications almost as if you were on the Play Store. It's especially useful for those who need to install region-restricted titles or access alternate versions of very specific games.
APK Downloader
There are those who avoid using Google Play for different reasons. For example, one of them may be that we do not want to create an account in the Google Play Store. If this is your case, you can always access any app available in it without having to visit it. Therefore, APK Downloader puts all the content on Google Play at your fingertips without having to go through it.
Its operation is based on introducing the App URL on Google Play or the package name, and the service generates a downloadable APK. This method is interesting if you want to stay away from the store But at the same time, make sure that the file comes from the official version of each application.
Other stores and alternative methods for installing apps without Google Play
In addition to the repositories mentioned above, the Android ecosystem has other third-party app stores and alternative methods that may be useful to you depending on your needs.
Some manufacturers include their own store: the Galaxy Store on Samsung mobiles or the AppGallery on Huawei devices, for example. We can also find very comprehensive alternatives online, such as Amazon Appstore, Aptoide or F-Droidwhich allow you to download apps and games or even access open source software that does not depend on Google services.
For business environments, there is the possibility of using solutions from mobile device management (MDM) They distribute apps en masse to employees without requiring each individual to use Google Play. This method is designed for businesses and involves costs, so it's not usually the best option for personal use.
Another interesting avenue is the peer-to-peer (P2P) sharing applicationsThese tools allow you to send apps directly from a friend's phone who already has them installed. They enable sharing installation packages without going through central servers, reducing reliance on Google or other app stores, although trusting the person sending you the app remains important.
What to do with "Unknown sources" enabled?
With this option you have the possibility to Install any app from outside of Google Play that the search engine brand does not approve., from tools for rooting (unlocking extra Android functions) to repositories with adult content.
Usually We will download an APK installer file from its creator's website., which would give us more precise instructions if necessary, although it is not usually necessary.
It is also possible to download content from alternative stores to Google Play, or applications that the Play Store does not support, such as TDTChannels to watch TV online. If we're gaming enthusiasts, it's the system that lets us download Fortnite to our smartphone.
However, sometimes the purpose of enabling "unknown sources" is more questionable, as it is used to distribute pirated apps, or even to They distribute copyrighted content without permission from their owners.
Es It's easy to enable "unknown sources" on your Android device to install apps not available on Google Play, but it is advisable to combine this power with responsible use, always using trusted repositories, checking permissions and disabling installation from unknown sources when you don't need it.