How to Install Third-Party Apps on Android TV

Edited 4 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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In this vast world of technology, learning how to install third-party apps on Android TV opens up a universe of possibilities that can improve your multimedia experience. Android TV is a unique operating system designed by Google to work on televisions to deliver the best TV viewing and streaming experience. Due to its versatility and the huge range of apps available for Android, Android TV supports more apps than many competitors. This guide will introduce you to different ways to install third-party apps on your Android TV. We'll go through each method step by step, simplifying any technical terminology in an easy-to-understand way.

Understanding android tv and third-party apps

Before getting into the installation process, it's important to understand what Android TV is and what third-party apps mean.

Android TV is an Android-based operating system designed by Google for digital media players and television sets. Apart from watching TV channels, it provides a platform to install applications and stream content over the Internet, making your TV interactive and smart.

Third-party apps refer to applications that are not downloaded directly from the Google Play Store. These apps can come from different sources such as other app stores or downloaded from the web. Installing third-party apps allows you to enjoy a variety of functionalities on your Android TV that may not be available in the Play Store.

Ways to install third-party apps

There are several ways to install third-party apps on your Android TV. Here, we'll go through these methods in detail, and make sure each step is broken down for easy execution.

Method 1: Using APK files

An APK file (Android Package Kit) is a type of file format used by the Android OS to distribute and install applications. Follow these steps to install third-party apps using APK files:

Step 1: Allow unknown sources

To install APK files, you need to allow your Android TV to install apps from unknown sources. Here's how you can do it:

1. On your Android TV, go to Settings.
2. Go to the Device section and select Security & Restrictions.
3. Look for the Unknown Sources option and enable it. A warning message will pop up, usually informing you of the risks. Press OK.

Step 2: Download the APK files

To install a particular app, you need an APK file. You can download an APK from many trusted sources on the Internet using a computer or mobile device.

Step 3: Transfer the APK to Android TV

There are several ways to transfer APK files to your Android TV:

• Using a USB drive: Copy the APK file from your computer to a USB drive. Insert the USB drive into your Android TV's USB port.
• Using cloud storage: Upload the APK file to a cloud service such as Google Drive or Dropbox. Access the file by connecting to the service through the app installed on your Android TV.

Step 4: Install the APK

Once the APK is on your TV, you can proceed with the installation:

1. Use a file manager app like FX File Explorer or Solid Explorer to locate the APK file on your Android TV.
2. Click on the APK file to begin the installation process.
3. Follow the prompts to complete the installation. Once done, the app will be ready to use.

Method 2: Using ADB commands

Android Debug Bridge (ADB) is a tool that allows developers to communicate with Android devices from a computer. ADB can be used to sideload apps onto Android TV without requiring a file explorer on the TV.

Step 1: Enable developer options

1. On your TV's Settings, open About.
2. Find the build and tap it several times until the message says, "You are now a developer."

Step 2: Enable debugging

1. In Settings, find Developer options.
2. Scroll down and turn on ADB debugging.

Step 3: Connect the PC and TV

1. Make sure both your PC and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Run adb connect <TV_IP_Address> command from a Command Prompt or Terminal window on your computer, replacing <TV_IP_Address> with your TV's IP address, which you can find in Settings under Network options.

Step 4: Install the app

1. Use adb install <path-to-apk> command to install the app. Make sure that <path-to-apk> is replaced with the actual path of the APK file on your computer.
2. This will install the app on your Android TV and can be accessed from the Apps section.

Method 3: Download the app via an alternative app store

If you don't like downloading and transferring APK files manually, there are alternative app stores like Aptoide TV or Downloader on Android TV where you can search for and install third-party apps.

Step-by-step: Using the downloader app

1. First, install the “Downloader” app from Google Play Store on your Android TV.
2. Open the Downloader app, where you can enter a URL or search for favorite apps to download APK files directly to your TV.
3. Once found, highlight the application, press Download, and Downloader will automatically manage the installation for you.

Thoughts and recommendations

When working with third-party apps, it's important to maintain safe practices:

• Download APKs only from trusted and reliable sources to minimize potential risks such as malware or security vulnerabilities.
• Keep third-party apps updated periodically to ensure they’re running the latest and most secure version.
• Understand the warranty limitations of your Android TV as sideloading apps may void the warranty.
• Keep track of each sideloaded app to effectively manage performance and storage on your Android TV.

Conclusion

With Android TV, the possibilities for a better entertainment experience are limitless. Although the process described may seem technical, following these steps can help you overcome the limitations of the Google Play Store. Installing third-party apps can provide access to a wide range of applications and features, enriching the way you consume content. By following good practices and following the steps in this guide, you can sideload apps safely and efficiently, turning your Android TV into a comprehensive smart entertainment hub. Enjoy the expanded functionality of your smart TV using the vast array of third-party applications available, remembering to always prioritize safety and legality in your downloads.

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