How to Install an APK on Android

Before we proceed, we’re going to assume you already have the APK file you want to install. If you don’t, you’ll need to acquire it from a safe and respectable place — I’ve added some guidance below on how to do just that, including what to do if you run into any issues with unknown source apps.

Once you’ve downloaded an APK file on Android, you can install it. This should be a fairly straightforward process and the steps should remain the same for most versions of Android.

To install an APK file on Android, follow these steps.

You may also see additional steps, depending on your device and the permissions the app requires. Follow any additional on-screen instructions, as required.

Installing Unknown Source Apps on Android 10 and Later

Having trouble installing an APK on Android? Android has a number of safety mechanisms to try and protect you from installing rogue app files.

If you try to install an unknown source app from an APK file, Android will block you. To bypass this, you’ll need to allow Android to install unknown source apps on your device.

The steps to do this will vary slightly, depending on your version of Android and your device manufacturer. This guide assumes you’re running a device running Android 10 and later.