Install step by step
- Download the APK in Chrome (or copy it to the phone over USB, email or a messaging app).
- Open it from the download notification or from Files → Downloads.
- Allow the source. Android 8.0 and newer ask per app: tap Settings, switch on Allow from this source for Chrome or your file manager, then go back.
- Tap Install.
- Tap Open — the icon also appears in your app drawer.
On Android 7 and older the switch is global: Settings → Security → Unknown sources.
Sending the APK to other people? Generate copy-paste instructions for them with the APK install instructions generator.
Google Play Protect prompts
Play Protect may say the app is from an unknown developer or offer to scan it. For an app you built yourself this is expected — choose More details → Install anyway, or let it scan. Never disable Play Protect permanently to install something.
Common errors and fixes
| Message | Usual cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| App not installed / package conflicts | An app with the same package name but a different signing key is installed | Uninstall the old version, or sign updates with the same key |
| There was a problem parsing the package | Incomplete download, or the app needs a newer Android version | Download again; check the phone's Android version |
| Install blocked | Unknown sources not allowed, or a work/school device policy | Allow the source; managed devices may forbid it |
| Not enough storage | Installing needs more free space than the APK itself | Free up space and retry |
| App opens to a blank screen | Content issue, not an install issue | See ZIP folder rules |
Installing updates
An update installs over the existing app — keeping its data — only if it has the same package name, the same signing key and a higher version code. That is why keeping your signing key matters: see app signing explained.
Install from a computer with ADB
Developers and testers can install over USB with Android Debug Bridge, which skips the unknown-apps prompt:
- On the phone, enable Developer options (tap Build number seven times in About phone) and turn on USB debugging.
- Install Google's Platform Tools on your computer and connect the phone.
- Run:
adb devices
adb install my-app.apk
adb install -r my-app.apk # reinstall / update, keeping dataIf ADB reports INSTALL_FAILED_UPDATE_INCOMPATIBLE, the installed app was signed with a different key — uninstall it first with adb uninstall com.your.package.
Tablets, Android TV and Chromebooks
- Tablets install exactly like phones.
- Android TV needs a file manager app from the TV's Play Store, or ADB over the network.
- Chromebooks need Android apps enabled and, for APK files outside Play, developer mode or ADB from the Linux environment.
Quick checklist when an install fails
- Is the download complete (file size matches)?
- Is "install unknown apps" allowed for the app you opened it from?
- Is an older version signed with a different key installed?
- Is the phone's Android version new enough for the app?
- Is there enough free storage?
Make your APK now — free
No Android Studio, no code, no watermark. Pick what you are starting from:
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to install APKs from outside Google Play?
It is safe when you trust the source — for example an app you built yourself. Only install APKs from people and sites you trust, and keep Play Protect on.
Why does my phone say 'App not installed'?
Most often a version with the same package name but a different signature is already installed. Uninstall it first, or sign every update with the same key.
Do I need to keep 'unknown apps' turned on?
No. You can turn the permission off again after installing; the app keeps working.