Keeping apps up-to-date is essential to ensure smooth functionality, enhanced features, and increased security. While apps downloaded from the Google Play Store update automatically, APK-installed apps require manual updates. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of updating APK files and ensuring you’re running the latest versions of your favorite apps.
Why APKs Don’t Update Automatically
When you install apps from the Google Play Store, the Play Store manages the updates automatically. However, APK-installed apps don’t have this feature since they aren’t linked to the Play Store’s infrastructure. This means you must manually download and install updates for APK files. The good news is that updating APKs is easy once you know where to look and what to do.
Step 1: Check the Current Version of the App
Before updating an APK, you need to determine the version you currently have installed. This allows you to confirm if a new update is available.
- Go to Settings on your Android device.
- Scroll down and tap on Apps or Apps & notifications.
- Find the app you installed via APK.
- Tap on it and scroll to the bottom to view the app version.
You’ll need this version number to compare with the version available for download.
Step 2: Find the Updated Version of the APK
Once you know the version you have installed, visit a trusted APK website like APKMirror, APKPure, or others to search for the latest version of the app.
- Go to your preferred APK download site.
- Search for the app you want to update.
- Check the version number to ensure it’s newer than the one currently installed.
- Download the APK file to your device.
Make sure you are downloading from a reputable source to avoid malicious files.
Step 3: Install the New APK Version
Once you have downloaded the latest version of the APK file, you can install it directly. Here’s how to do it:
- Locate the downloaded APK file in your device’s Downloads folder or use a file manager.
- Tap on the file to start the installation.
- A prompt will appear asking if you want to install the update. Confirm by tapping Install.
This process will overwrite the older version of the app without deleting any of your app data or settings.
Step 4: Clear Cache (Optional)
Sometimes, after updating an app, it’s a good idea to clear the app’s cache to avoid conflicts between old and new files.
- Go to Settings on your device.
- Tap on Apps.
- Select the app you just updated.
- Tap on Storage and then Clear Cache.
Clearing the cache can resolve issues like slow performance or glitches after an update.
Step 5: Verify the Update
After installation, you’ll want to verify that the update was successful and that you’re now running the latest version of the app.
- Open the app and check if there are any new features or changes.
- Go to Settings > Apps, find the app, and confirm that the version number has changed to the one you just installed.
Managing APK Updates: Tips and Best Practices
- Stick to Trusted APK Sites: Always download APK files from reputable sources like APKMirror, APKPure, or F-Droid to avoid malicious files.
- Backup Your Apps: Consider using an app backup tool before updating APKs, especially for apps that store important data or settings. This ensures you don’t lose data in case something goes wrong during the update.
- Check for Updates Regularly: Since APKs don’t update automatically, regularly check the websites where you downloaded them for new versions.
- Compare Permissions: When updating an APK, pay attention to the permissions requested by the new version. If the updated version asks for unnecessary or suspicious permissions, proceed with caution.
Common Issues When Updating APKs and How to Fix Them
- Installation Blocked: If you haven’t enabled installation from unknown sources, the APK installation may be blocked. Go to Settings > Security, then toggle Allow installation from unknown sources.
- App Not Installed Error: This error can occur if there’s a conflict with the app. Clearing the app’s cache or uninstalling the old version before installing the new one can resolve this issue.
- Compatibility Issues: Ensure the APK you’re downloading is compatible with your device’s Android version. If the update is for a newer Android version than what your device runs, the installation may fail.
Conclusion: Stay Updated with Manual APK Updates
While updating APKs may not be as seamless as automatic updates through the Play Store, the process is easy once you know the steps. By regularly checking trusted sources, comparing version numbers, and manually installing updates, you can ensure your APK-installed apps remain current and secure. Following best practices like backing up your apps and clearing caches after updates can also help maintain smooth app performance.