Sideload(Install) any app on Android TV

Android TV is a great way to turn your normal TV into a smart one. But the Android TV playstore is not as rich as it's smartphone counterpart. But Android is known for its flexibility and Android TV is no exception. 

We can install almost any Android app on Android TV by sideloading it and it's not as hard as it sounds. I will keep it short and simple.

What is sideloading?

Sideloading is basically the process of installing unofficial apps on a device. Many apps are not available due to many reasons like: location restrictions or the not being published for the TV version.

[Do note that most of the apps are made for touch screens. So some of them may misbehave. It is better to have a mouse to use those apps]

Sideloading Prerequisites

1.TV Work

1(a) Search File Manager on The Google Play Store. Install any of them. I will be using FX File Explorer.

1(b)Search for 'Side Load Launcher' in the Google Play Store and install it.

1(c) Now go to Settings->Security & restrictions->Unknown Sources->FX File Explorer (On)

2.Download APK In Another Device

2(a) Search for the app in Google in another device(your phone or pc). Search "'App name' apk". For example: to install Chrome, we will search "Chrome apk"

2(b) We suggest you to download the apk file from reputed sites like apk mirror or apk pure.

Note: Make sure you use the right apk. Some apps can be malicious so be careful and download the right app.

3.Final Step

3(a) If you downloaded the apk file on your PC, then you will have to copy it in a pendrive.

3(b) Connect the pendrive with the Android TV box. If you downloaded the apk in your phone, then you will have to connect it with a USB cable.

3(c) Now open FX File Explorer and go to the location where you saved the apk and click on it to install.

3(d) Use the sideload Launcher to launch and use the app

By sideloading you can access the rich library of apps of Android on your TV. But do keep in mind that some apps could be illegal and you can always avoid getting into copyright mess by using a reliable VPN and stay on the right side of law.

Enjoy your feature riched Android TV to the fullest