How to Install APK on Android for RCDLAND

This article explains what you need to do to permit your Android device to install apps from outside the Play Store via APK files.

What Is an APK?

An APK (Android Package Kit) is a type of file that installs an application for Android. Its purpose is similar to other file types, like EXE files on Windows and PKG files on Macs.

If you've ever installed an Android app from the Google Play Store, then you've used an APK file without realizing it. When you tap the Install button, the app store automates the process of transferring the file to your phone and running it for you.

Why do we Use an APK?

Sometimes the Android app you want to install isn't available on Google Play, you can download the APK file from the web and install it manually. This might be necessary if the mobile app provider couldn't get their app approved for the app store, or if it's a private app and might not be for the general public.

First things first, is to allow your device to install an APK

Open the Settings app and tap Apps or Apps & Notifications.

Tap the three dots in the upper-right corner. If you don't see that, skip down to the next step.

Tap Special access, or Special app access on some Android devices.

Next is to allow your Device to access the APK from your browsers like Chrome to donwload the APK. Do this also from your other preferred sources.

1. Tap Install unknown apps.
2. Tap Chrome (or whichever web browser you use).
3. Switch the toggle next to Allow from this source so it turns on.

Install an APK File on Android

The easiest way to install an APK file on your Android is to download the file using the default browser, Chrome. Other web browsers definitely work, just make sure to give them the same permission described above. Here's how to install APK files through Chrome:

Click the Download button for the APK file, simply tap the download option below like you'd download any file.

Download RCDLAND app below

Accept any prompts you might see about the file being potentially harmful. For example, tap Download anyway or OK.

Once the APK is downloaded to your device, it's time to install the app. In Chrome, tap the three-dot menu button, then choose Downloads to see the file. You can also use a file manager if you prefer to install apps that way.

Tap the file name followed by Install. After a few moments, the app will be fully installed and show up next to all your other apps.

Transfer the APK Installer via USB

If you don't have internet access on your phone, or for any other reason you can't use a browser to download the file, you can still install apps from your computer. Using your desktop web browser, download the APK file just like described above. Then, connect to your Android phone and transfer the file.

If you've never connected your Android to your computer, first turn on USB debugging mode. You can then plug your phone into your computer with a USB cable, and it'll mount the phone like it would a memory stick.

Your phone will show up as another drive in File Explorer. Move the APK file you downloaded into the appropriate folder on your phone, which might be called Download or /sdcard/download, or an equivalent.

Once the file is transferred, use a file explorer app on your phone to tap the APK file and install the app.

Watch this quick video tutorial on how to install an APK app.