If you want to install an app that isn’t available in the Google Play Store, you can sideload it. Sideloading is installing an app from another source than an official app store. Usually, you sideload apps on your Android TV by downloading the APK file onto your PC or Mac, then transferring it over to the TV with a USB drive.
Before you can sideload any apps, though, you need to enable a setting called “Unknown Sources” which will tell your Android TV that it’s okay to install apps from sources other than the Play Store. Once Unknown Sources is enabled, transferring and installing APK files is pretty simple:
- Connect your Android TV to your computer with a USB cable. If you’re using a Mac, you’ll need to download and install Android File Transfer first.
- On your computer, open up a file explorer window and navigate to the location of the APK file you want to sideload. For this example we’ll use VLC for Android.
- Drag and drop the APK file onto your Android TV’s home screen or into its files app (depending on what kind of interface it has). If prompted, confirm that you want to allow installation from this source.
- Once the transfer is complete, open up your Android TV’s files app (if necessary) and locate the APK file. Tap on it to begin installation—you may see a warning letting you know that this type of file could harm your device, but as long as you trust the source of the APKfile go ahead and tap OK here too .
What are the benefits of sideloading apps on Android TV?
How to sideload apps on Android TV?1. Sideloading apps on Android TV is a great way to get the latest and greatest app content without waiting for it to be released through the official Google Play Store.2. By sideloading an app, you’re also bypassing any potential security risks that may come with downloading and installing apps from unknown sources.3. Finally, by sideloading an app, you can ensure that your device always has the latest and most up-to-date features and bug fixes available.
How do I find compatible apps for my Android TV?
There are a few ways to find compatible apps for your Android TV. You can browse the Google Play Store, or use an app search engine like AppBrain. You can also check out the official Android TV app store, which is available on certain devices and in some countries. Finally, you can sideload apps from outside of the Google Play Store by using a third-party app installer.
How do I enable Unknown Sources on my Android TV?
To enable Unknown Sources on your Android TV, open the Settings app and navigate to Security. Under “Unknown sources,” tap the toggle switch to turn it on.
How do I install a sideloaded app on my Android TV?
1. Open the Android TV’s Settings app2. Select System3. Under “Apps”4. Select “Sideload apps”5. Scroll to the bottom of the list and select a sideloaded app6. Tap on it7. Follow the on-screen instructions8.
Are there any risks to sideloading apps on my Android TV?
There are a few risks to sideloading apps on your Android TV, but they’re generally pretty low. For example, if you install an app that’s not from the Google Play Store, it could potentially damage your device or even give you malware. Additionally, some apps may not work properly if they’re not from the official Google Play Store. However, these risks are generally minor and can be easily avoided by using caution when downloading and installing apps.
