How to Install Apps from APK Files on Android Phones and Tablets

Sometimes Android users find it difficult to get their favorite app or the game from Google Play Store. In such a scenario, the only option left behind is to install the app or the game from its APK file. If you aren't sure how to do it, then this guide will teach you precisely and briefly.

What are APK Files: APK files are executable files which are similar to the .exe files on Windows. These files contain all needed scripts that are responsible to run the game or the app. Google Play Store itself sends the APK files when you request to install an app or the game and once the APK file is downloaded by the Google Play Store app on your device, it starts the installation of the app in a secure way to ensure that everything is safe and secure.

Although Google Play Store installs the apps and games with APK files too but the direct installation is disabled by default on Android devices as a security measure. The OS doesn't allow users to install apps and games outside of Google Play to ensure that any malicious stuff doesn't get into the system.

To be able to install an app with its APK file, you need to follow these instructions:

1. - Go to security settings on your Android device

2. - Look for 'Unknown sources' option and enable it

3. - Open APK file downloaded from any source like RoidBay to install the app

Once the option is enabled, you will be able to install any app of your choice with just its APK file.

Benefits: There are a lot of benefits of installing apps and games with their executable files. For example in most countries, like China for instance, Google Play Store isn't available entirely. Or in some other countries, certain apps aren't available when their status is 'Geo Specific'.

In such a situation, you can download the app's APK file from any source to install it. In addition, you can install those apps and games also which aren't listed on Google Play Store yet or Google Play Store has delisted them for some reason.

Concerns: Although installation of apps and games with their APK files is a great way to get stuff of your choice on your device but sometimes it proves to be risky when proper measures aren't taken. For example in addition to legit and clean apps and games out there, you will encounter with malicious stuff also. Hackers aren't only targeting PCs but Android apps are also been injected with malware, spyware and other scripts.

To stay safe and sound, you must download APK files from a reputed source. Also consider MD5 checks against APK files and compare it with original APKs released by the developers to ensure that they haven't been modified. Otherwise your privacy may be compromised or your data may be lost just in case you install a bad app unknowingly.

We hope that you find these instructions helpful! If you weren't able to install your favorite game before or if the app you are looking for wasn't available for you in your region, then just find its APK file, install it and enjoy on the fly!