Android: Install APK - Here's how
With apk files, you can install apps on your Android smartphone without the Google Play Store. It is also possible to use applications or updates that are not officially compatible with your smartphone model. This practical tip shows you how exactly the installation of such apk files works.
Install apk files without Google Play Store: the preparations
First of all, you have to make minor preparations on the smartphone. These affect the security settings and allow your smartphone to install apps of unknown origin, i.e. apk. Files.
- To do this, open the settings app on your smartphone.
- Select the "Security" item, then activate the "Unknown origin" function under "Device management".
Install apk files without Google Play Store: The installation
After the prerequisites for this have been created, it is now time to install it.
- The easiest way is to download the apk file directly to the smartphone using the mobile browser. You may have to confirm a note at the bottom of the screen that indicates possible dangers of the download.
- Now a message should appear in the notification bar about the download. Tap this note and open the installation screen.
- The only thing left to do is to go through the usual installation process.
An installation via apk file is useful, for example, for the Messenger WhatsApp, provided your Android device is not officially supported. The next page shows you how to pin favorite chats with the latest version of Messenger.