Google considers its Play Store to be the only reliable platform for app installations on Android devices. The term 'Unknown Sources' refers to other locations outside of the Google Play Store where you might obtain an APK file.
This is how to install an application from an unverified source:
If you intend to install apps from sources other than the Google Play Store, please follow the steps that correspond to your Android version:
For Android versions 4.0 to 7.0 (from Ice Cream Sandwich to Nougat):
- Open Settings
- Tap ‘Security’
- Enable ‘Unknown sources’
- Confirm your selection by tapping 'OK' and then choose 'Trust'
For Android 8.0 (Oreo) and newer:
- Open Settings
- Tap ‘Apps & notifications’
- Select ‘Special app access’
- Tap ‘Install unknown apps’
- Select your preferred web browser (for example, Chrome or Firefox)
- Toggle on ‘Allow from this source’
Important: Activating installations from unknown sources may lead to security issues. It's crucial to download apps solely from reputable sources and to be cautious when handling APK files.
For safety, consider disabling the 'Unknown sources' option in your security settings once the installation is complete.