Android TV Box
Android TV Boxes are a great way to turn your regular TV into a smart entertainment system. They give you access to the Google Play Store, but sometimes the app you want isn’t available there. That’s where sideloading comes in.
In this post, I’ll show you how to sideload apps on your Android TV Box safely and easily — no tech skills required.
What is Sideloading?
Sideloading simply means installing apps from sources other than the Google Play Store. It’s completely legal and safe when done properly. Many developers or streaming apps release APK files (Android Package Files) that you can install manually.
Just remember: only sideload apps from trusted sources to avoid malware or security risks.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, here’s what you’ll need:
- An Android TV Box with internet access
- A file manager app (like File Commander or X-plore File Manager)
- The APK file of the app you want to install
- A USB drive or a cloud storage service like Google Drive or Dropbox
Step-by-Step: How to Sideload Apps on Android TV Box
Step 1: Enable “Unknown Sources”
- Go to your Android TV Settings
- Scroll to Device Preferences > Security & Restrictions
- Find and enable the option: Unknown Sources
- Choose the file manager app you plan to use (like File Commander) and allow it to install apps
This lets your TV Box install apps from outside the Google Play Store.
Step 2: Download the APK File
You have two options:
- On a computer or phone: Visit a trusted website (e.g. APKMirror or APKPure), download the APK file, and move it to a USB drive or upload it to Google Drive.
- On the TV Box itself: Use a browser to download the APK file directly onto your device (you may need to sideload a browser first).
Step 3: Transfer the APK File to Your TV Box
- If using a USB drive: Plug it into your Android TV Box’s USB port. Open your file manager app and locate the APK.
- If using cloud storage: Open your file manager app and connect it to your Google Drive or Dropbox account. Then find and download the APK to your TV Box.
Also Read: How To Send a File to TV
Step 4: Install the APK
- Locate the APK file in your file manager app
- Click on it to launch the installer
- Follow the prompts to install the app
- Once installed, you’ll see the app icon in your list of apps
Step 5: Launch the App
Some sideloaded apps may not show up on the home screen. If that happens:
- Download the Sideload Launcher or TV App Repo from the Play Store — these will show all installed apps, including sideloaded ones.
- Alternatively, go to Settings > Apps to open the app from the list.
Bonus Tip: Use “Send Files to TV” App (No USB Needed)
If you don’t want to use a USB drive or cloud storage, you can use an app called Send Files to TV.
- Install it on both your Android TV Box and your phone or tablet
- Open the app on both devices
- Use your phone to send the APK file to your TV
- Open it with a file manager and install as usual
This method is fast and wireless!
Final Thoughts
Sideloading apps on an Android TV Box opens the door to a lot more functionality and content. As long as you stick to reputable sources, it’s a safe and effective way to get the apps you want.
Whether it’s a streaming service that’s not in your region or a custom app from a developer, sideloading gives you control over what’s installed on your device.
