How to download Android apps without Google Play

When you would need this

Devices without Google services (Huawei since 2019, many Android TV boxes, e-readers), countries or networks where Play is blocked, apps not offered in your region, or an app that was removed from Play but still works.

The sources

The developer. Some apps publish their APK on their own site (Signal, Firefox, VLC, most open-source apps). It is the most trustworthy source and always the developer's signature.

F-Droid. A catalogue of free and open-source apps, built from source by the F-Droid team. Install the F-Droid client once and it handles updates. Coverage is limited to open-source software.

Manufacturer stores. Samsung Galaxy Store, Huawei AppGallery, Xiaomi GetApps and Amazon Appstore carry many mainstream apps and update them. Coverage varies by region.

Aurora Store. An open-source client that downloads directly from Google Play's servers, anonymously or with your account. It gives you the exact Play build and handles split bundles. It works on devices without Google services, though apps that need Google Play Services still will not run.

APK mirrors. Sites such as this one that catalogue apps and link to a mirror holding the packages developers uploaded. They are the only practical way to get an older version. Check the safety guide before installing.

What will not work without Google services

Apps that depend on Google Play Services: anything using Google sign-in, Firebase push notifications, Google Maps inside the app, or Play Integrity. On Huawei devices, microG or the GBox sandbox can provide part of this; on other devices without Google, expect banking and streaming apps to refuse.

Updates

Apps installed outside Play do not update themselves. F-Droid and Aurora manage their own installs. For APKs from a mirror, the app's version page shows when a newer build appears; see how to update apps installed from an APK.