Four safe ways to get Android apps without the Google Play Store

Android phones can install apps without the Google Play Store, and it is easier than many people expect. How-To Geek lays out four safe ways to do it. The biggest risk is not the method. It is tapping the wrong download button on a shady page.

What sideloading means

Installing an app from outside the Play Store is called sideloading. Unlike on iOS, it is straightforward on Android. People do it for different reasons. Some do not want a Google account. Others use a de-Googled phone, which is set up without Google services, for privacy.

The four ways

• The app maker's own website. This is the safest route. Open-source apps such as VLC media player are easy to find there.
• APK sites such as F-Droid, APKPure, APKMirror and GitHub. An APK is the installer file for an Android app.
• Other app stores, such as Samsung Galaxy Store, Mi Store, Amazon Appstore and Epic Games Store.
• Progressive Web Apps, or PWAs. These are websites you can install on your phone like an app.

Not every company offers a direct download. Popular apps like Spotify and Netflix send visitors to the Play Store from their websites. In that case, an APK site is the fallback, but it is less reliable than going to the source.

Getting your phone ready

Android turns off the permission to run APK files by default. After downloading one, open Settings and search for the option to install unknown apps. Give your file manager permission to install apps. Then open the APK to install the app. Skipping the Play Store bypasses some of Google's protection, though Play Protect still scans the app on your phone for malware.

Stores and web apps

Many phones come with a store from their maker already installed. If yours does not, you can download these stores from their official websites in your phone's browser. Aurora Store is an open-source option. It lets you download, install and update Play Store apps anonymously, with no Google account.

A PWA needs no file at all. Open a compatible website in a supported browser such as Chrome or Samsung Internet. A prompt should offer to add a shortcut to your phone. If it does not appear, look in the browser settings. Firefox can install PWAs but does not support all their features.

Staying safe

APK sites are full of ads, and one wrong touch could download a virus instead of the file you wanted. This can happen even on a trusted site. Avoid shady-looking websites. Watch for warning signs such as a fishy site or strange permission requests.

Extra care matters on a de-Googled phone, especially if Play Protect is turned off. Before installing, a screening service like VirusTotal can check a file for malware.