In this tutorial, learn how to install APK files from a PC on Android. This way is normally used in cases where you are unable to download apps or games to your Android phone due to memory restrictions or other possible reasons.
If you wish to install an app from an APK file you have obtained from outside of the Google Play Store, this post is useful for you.
How to install an Android app from an APK file using a Windows PC
Step 1. Enable APK installs on your Android device
1. Go to your Android’s Settings. It’s a gear icon typically found in the app drawer.
2. Scroll down and select Security.
3. Under the Device administration, toggle Unknown sources ON.
Allow App Installations from Unknown Sources
Now you’ll be able to install apps from APK files.
Step 2. Copy/Move APK files from a PC to an Android device
1. Download the APK file to your PC.
You may also like: Download APK files from Google Play to your computer
2. Connect your Android device to the PC via a USB cable.
3. On your Android device, tap the Use USB to Transfer files notification. A list of options will occur as shown in the image below:
4. Create an empty folder on your Android device. You can name it My APK or anything that makes sense to you.
5. On the computer, browse to the APK file. Copy or move APK files from a PC to My APK folder your Android device.
Step 3. Install the App from APK
1. On your Android device, download and install a free file manager from the Play Store, such as ZArchiver or ES File Explorer. In my example, I am going to use ZArchiver.
Download ZArchiver from Goolge Play store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ru.zdevs.zarchiver
2. Open ZArchiver, look for the APK file in My APK folder.
3. Tap on the APK file. A confirmation message will pop up, asking if you really want to install the file.
4. Tap on Install button. Wait until the installation is complete, tap Done.
Now your new app is ready to use.
In this video, we will show you how to install an Android app from an APK file using a Windows PC.
Hope something helps you.
