How to find APK files for Sideloading via Google

pbrauer

Administrator
Staff member
Sep 24, 2010
3,649
561
So almost a year ago I posted this on how to Google for basically any APK file that is out there available for download. Since we have added about 50,000 users since then I thought there may be people that would like having this reposted. This is great for older app versions, and especially for those that have Tablets that do not have Android Market support.

[h=2]Trick to Find any APK you are looking for[/h]
A lot of times I get requests for specific APK files from places other than the Google Market, or I see an app written up that I think looks great but when I look for it I cannot find the APK anywhere easily.

In order to try and come up with a search for Google to resolve this I have been tinkering with a reusable and customizable string that will look for me through all of the indexed items that are available via Google. Before I share this, please keep a couple of things in mind. I DO NOT condone sharing licensed APK files, this is illegal. Also, if you find that YOUR files are listed here, then it is because Google found them, not me and you should examine your security and/or posting history.

Here are the links:

1. If you are just looking for a canonical listing of all APKs:

http://www.google.com/search?q=-inurl:htm+-inurl:html+-inurl:asp+intitle:%22index+of%22+%2B(apk)

2. If you are looking for a specific APK and you know what it is called add it right before the end of the string:

http://www.google.com/search?q=-inurl:htm+-inurl:html+-inurl:asp+intitle:%22index+of%22+%2B(<appname>.apk ) -- where you replace <appname> with the name of the app and do not include the <> braces.

3. Wildcards in the appname area are supported but do result occasionally in unexpected results.

Cheers,
Peter​
 

joe2jacks

Member
Feb 3, 2012
1
0
hi m8, just a quick one, i have searched as you suggested and gotten the files , they mostly are zipped files so i have unzipped them but having done so i cannot see any way to install them on my tablet as there is no install file, can you help please????
 
Last edited:

rich_l

Member
Nov 2, 2011
5
1
on my xoom, if I click on an .apk file it asks if I want to install it.

Say yes :rolleyes:
 

takyoko34

Member
Jun 19, 2012
32
2
You may need to enable sideloading first. Which is on settings> applications > check "unknown sources"
 
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