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How to Install APK Files on Android

Mitch BartlettAugust 4, 2021 Comments (4)

How do you install APK files from other places outside of the Google Play app to your Android device? We’ve got the steps for you.

Option 1 – From the Device

  1. Enable installation of APK files by enabling “Unknown sources”. Use one of these steps to enable the option depending on your device:
    • “Settings” > “Applications” > “Unknown sources“.
    • “Settings” > “Security” > “Unknown sources“.
  2. Download the APK file to the device, or copy it via a USB connection to your PC.
  3. Do one of the following:
    • Swipe down the notification bar using two fingers, then tap the file that you downloaded.
    • Open a file manager interface. You can usually go into “Settings” > “Storage” > “Explore“, Some devices may offer an app called “File Manager“, “Files“, or “My Files“.
  4. Navigate to the file and open it. You will be prompted to proceed with the installation

Option 2 – From ADB Command Line

Use one of these commands as desired.

  • “adb install appname.apk” = Standard install
  • “adb install -r appname.apk” = Reinstall
  • “adb install -s appname.apk” = Install to SD Card
  • “adb uninstall appname.apk” = Uninstall

яндекс

Categories: Android

Author Mitch Bartlett

Through my career that spans over 20 years I have become an expert in Microsoft Systems Administration, Android, and macOS. I started this site as a technical guide for myself and it has grown into what I hope is a useful knowledgebase for everyone.

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Comments

  1. Stevie Ray says:
    April 24, 2020 at 5:03 am

    There’s no need to use USB to transfer apk files from PC to your phone because now we already have third-party websites that provide free and original apk files like apktovi or apktoide.

  2. James says:
    March 28, 2019 at 10:58 pm

    Tks for your instruction. I think the fastest and safest way is using well known 3rd party sites like apkpure, apknite

  3. olusegun says:
    January 3, 2019 at 9:06 am

    Google play service not working

  4. Joe Smo says:
    March 5, 2018 at 6:55 pm

    Thanks for apk install instruction (via adb)

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The Experts Behind Technipages

My name is Mitch Bartlett. I've been working in technology for over 20 years in a wide range of tech jobs from Tech Support to Software Testing. I started this site as a technical guide for myself and it has grown into what I hope is a useful reference for all.

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Last Updated on August 4, 2021 by