Safe ways to download Android apps without using the Google Play Store

The Google Play Store is the default way to download Android apps, but Android also allows installing apps from other sources through “sideloading.” The article outlines four approaches to do it more safely. First, it recommends downloading APK files directly from a developer’s website, since it bypasses some of Google’s protections, though Play Protect can still scan for malware. It then advises enabling “install unknown apps” in Android settings and granting installer permission to the relevant file manager. Second, it mentions trusted APK repositories like F-Droid, APKPure, APKMirror, and GitHub, warning that ads and user errors can lead to malicious downloads. Third, it covers alternative app stores such as Samsung Galaxy Store, Mi Store, Amazon Appstore and Epic Games Store, plus Aurora Store for open-source needs.