How to Install APK Files on Android

How to install an APK file on Android

Installing an app from an APK file takes less than a minute. The exact steps vary slightly by Android version, but the process is the same everywhere.

Step 1: Download the APK

Tap the download button on the app's page here on APK01. Your browser will warn you that the file "might be harmful" — this is a standard warning Android shows for every file downloaded outside the Play Store. If you trust the source, tap Download anyway.

Step 2: Allow installs from your browser

When you open the downloaded file, Android will ask for permission to install apps from that source (your browser or file manager). Tap Settings on the prompt and toggle Allow from this source on. You only need to do this once per app.

Step 3: Install

Go back and tap Install. Android will show you the permissions the app wants — read them before continuing. The install usually finishes in a few seconds.

Step 4: Open the app

Tap Open, or find the app in your app drawer. Done.

Tips

• Updating: to update a sideloaded app, just download and install the newer APK over the old one — your data stays intact.
• Unknown sources on older Android: on Android 7 and below, the toggle lives at Settings > Security > Unknown sources.
• Stay safe: only install APKs from sources you trust, and check app permissions before tapping install. Read our safety guide for the full checklist.