Top 10 Must-Have APK Apps for Android Users
As we live in a digital world, having a mobile phone today is common for almost everyone. Apart from making phone calls, people use mobile devices for many other purposes like browsing, texting, clicking pictures, and many more. Moreover, a smartphone is nothing without apps. Every user has their own preference when it comes to app usage. As per reports, more than 3.5 million apps are available on the Google Play store, with App Store trailing behind it. However, have you ever wondered how can you download apps that are not available on the Play Store? One such solution is .apk app files.
An APK or Android Package Kit is a file format for Android users to install applications and middlewares on their devices. APK files are mostly used by Android app developers for testing purposes. An APK file has a unique application code that helps in identifying the app, its developer and version it belongs to. To install an APK file, you need to have a source from where to download the APK file. However, always ensure that you download APK files from authentic sources. Some popular sources include APKMirror and APKPure.
Let us understand the process of downloading and installing an APK file in your Android device. The initial step is choosing a reliable source to download the APK file, preferable from the official source of the app developer. Once you download the APK file, the next step is to enable ‘unknown sources’ in the settings of your device. This helps in accepting the APK file installation from unknown sources. After granting permission, you can tap on the APK file link and download it on your device. A prompt will appear, asking for permission to install the APK file. Click on ‘install’ and the installation process will begin.
APK files have a lot of benefits for users. Firstly, users can download apps that are not available on the play store. Some developers choose not to publish their apps on third-party app stores like Google Play store, and in such cases, APK files become a great solution. Secondly, users can download old versions of the apps. Some users prefer using the older version of an app instead of the latest one for better compatibility or user interface. APK files allow users to download the specific version of the app they need. Thirdly, APK files help to bypass device compatibility issues. Sometimes an app may not support a specific device due to some compatibility issues. Users can download the APK file on their device, which may resolve the compatibility issues.
However, APK files may come with their own set of risks. One of the significant risks is the download of malware or viruses along with the APK file. As APK files are downloaded from third-party sources, it becomes essential to ensure that the source is trustworthy. Users should research online or look for the developer’s authenticity to avoid any malicious content in the download. Another risk is the lack of security updates. As the APK files are not downloaded from the official source or the Play Store, the app version may not be updated regularly, leaving the app vulnerable to the latest cyber threats.
Many popular apps like WhatsApp, Netflix, and Spotify have their APK version available for download. Likewise, some applications are exclusively available only as APK files. For example, VidMate and TubeMate are apps available only from APK files. Using APK files to install apps may seem like a complicated process, but it is not so if done carefully. Moreover, APK files may come in handy in case a user cannot access Google Play Store due to regional or legal restrictions.
In conclusion, APK files have become an integral part of Android device usage. While some users prefer the official Play Store, others opt for APK files for exclusive app downloads. Although there are risks associated with downloading APK files, users can take necessary precautions to avoid any malicious content. APK files open up multiple options for app download, particularly for those who cannot access Play Store or are looking for specific app versions. It is essential that you research and use authentic sources while downloading APK files.