Sideloading apps on Google TV or Android TV involves installing applications from sources other than the Google Play Store. Here are the general steps to sideload apps using APK files on Google TV or Android TV:
Enable Unknown Sources:
- Navigate to Settings:
- On your Google TV or Android TV device, go to the home screen and select “Settings” (gear icon).
- Select Device Preferences:
- Inside Settings, find and select “Device Preferences.”
- Enable Unknown Sources:
- Look for “Security & Restrictions” or a similar option, and then enable “Unknown sources.” This allows you to install apps from sources other than the Google Play Store.
Obtain the APK File:
- Download the APK:
- Use a web browser on your computer or the TV’s browser to download the APK file of the app you want to sideload. You can find APK files on various websites, but be cautious and download from reputable sources to avoid security risks.
Transfer the APK to Your TV:
- USB Drive:
- If your TV has a USB port, you can copy the APK file to a USB drive and connect it to your TV.
- Cloud Storage:
- Upload the APK file to a cloud storage service like Google Drive or Dropbox. Use the TV’s browser or a file manager app to download the APK from the cloud.
- Network File Sharing:
- Set up network file sharing on your computer and transfer the APK to your TV over the local network.
Install the APK:
- File Manager:
- Use the built-in file manager or download a file manager app from the Google Play Store on your TV.
- Navigate to the APK File:
- Locate the APK file on your USB drive, cloud storage, or network storage using the file manager.
- Install the App:
- Select the APK file, and you will be prompted to install the app. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
- Open the App:
- Once installed, you can find the app on your home screen or in the app drawer. Open it and configure as needed.
Note:
- Sideloading apps comes with risks, so only download APKs from trusted sources.
- Make sure your device is set to allow unknown sources only temporarily, and disable it once you’ve installed the desired apps.
- Some apps may not be optimized for the TV interface, so their functionality may vary.
Keep in mind that the specific steps might vary slightly depending on the brand and model of your TV, as different manufacturers may use customized interfaces for their Android TV devices.