Android apps are also available as APK files, which can be manually installed by sideloading them onto any Android device. There are several situations where you might prefer to install an APK manually rather than downloading the app directly from the Play Store.
For instance:
- When the Play Store shows that an app is incompatible with your device, but you still want to try it.
- When a specific app isn’t available in your country.
- When you want to download a game once and install it on multiple devices to save time and bandwidth.
Unfortunately, the Google Play Store doesn’t allow you to download APK files directly, for obvious security and piracy concerns. Fortunately, there’s an easy workaround using an online tool – Evozi APK Downloader.
Easily Download APK Files Directly from Google Play Store
APK Downloader, created by Evozi, is a free online tool that allows you to quickly download the APK file of any Android app from the Google Play Store directly to your desktop.
Note: To prevent piracy, the tool does not support downloading paid apps.
How to use Evozi APK Downloader:
- Visit apps.evozi.com/apk-downloader.
- Enter the URL of any Android app or its package name (found in the Play Store link after
?id=). - Click on ‘Generate Download Link’.
- Once the file is ready, download it and sideload the app on your Android device.
You can also verify the APK using the MD5 hash provided. If the APK isn’t the latest version, use the ‘Advanced Settings’ to force a re-fetch from the Google Play server.
APK Downloader Chrome Extension (Alternative Method)
If the online tool doesn’t work, you can try the APK Downloader Chrome Extension.
This method requires:
- The latest version of Chrome.
- Your device ID, Google account email, and password (stored locally on your device to fetch the Play Store cookie).
Use the extension if you want to download APKs directly from Google’s servers and also download paid apps you’ve already purchased.
Refer to the official FAQ and guide on the Evozi website for complete information.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re testing an app, installing it across multiple devices, or accessing region-locked apps, APK Downloader is a handy and free tool that makes the process simple and efficient.
ALSO READ: How to Remove Your Credit Card from Google Play Store
