What to Know

  • Allow Chrome to install unknown apps by going to Settings > Apps > Menu > Special access > Install unknown apps.
  • Install a file manager (such as Cx File Explorer or File Manager) so that you can find the APK file after you download it to your phone.
  • Download an APK file and open it to install it. Alternatively, transfer the APK Installer from your computer using USB.

If you want to use an app from outside of the Google Play Store, you can install the app's APK file. This article explains how to install APKs on Android 7 or later.

Allow Unknown Apps on Android

Before you can download APK files using Chrome or any other browser, you must first allow unknown apps:

1, Go to your device settings and tap Apps & Notifications (or Apps in older versions of Android).

2, Tap the three dots in the upper-right corner.

3, Tap Special access.


4, Tap Install unknown apps.

5, Tap Chrome (or whichever web browser you use)

6, Move Allow from this source to the On position.


Install an Android File Manager

Now that you've configured your phone to let you install unknown apps, you'll need a way to find the application file (APK file) on your phone so that you can run it.

Android phones typically come with a file manager app you can use, but if you don't have one, search for one of the best Android file managers on Google Play. For example, you can download Cx File Explorer or get File Manager.

Download the APK Installer From Your Android

The easiest way to install an APK file on your Android is to download the file using the default browser, Chrome.

1. Find a website offering the Android app and tap the link to download the APK file. Accept any pop-ups, including “This type of file can harm your device.”

Only download APK files from reputable sources. A quick Google search can often let you know if an app (or company that makes the app) has a questionable reputation.

2. If your phone's web browser doesn't give you the option to open the file after downloading, open your file explorer app, go to the Downloads folder on your device, then tap the APK file.

3. Allow the app any required permissions it asks for. Then, at the bottom of the installer window, tap Install.

4. Now you'll see the app available in your list of installed apps.

Why Use an APK?

If the Android app you want to install isn't available on Google Play, you can download the APK file from the web and install it manually.

Finding APK Installers

There are many websites where you can find non-Google Play apps to install. For example, visit Apk Pure, Reddit's Apk Directory, or APKMirror.

FAQ

Can APK files harm your Android?

Possibly. Any file you download online can contain a virus, which is why it's important to only download APKs from safe sources.

Can I delete APK files on my Android?

Yes. APK files are only used to install apps, so once the app is installed, you can delete the APK.

What is ConfigAPK on Android?

ConfigAPK comes preloaded on Android devices. It's used to run APK files and install apps.