As a parent, it can be quite challenging to manage your child’s device usage. With the advent of technology, children have access to various apps and games that may not always be appropriate for them. But, with Google Family Link, parents can control and monitor their child’s device activity, including the apps they can download.
However, there may be times when you want to allow your child to download an APK that is not available on the Google Play Store. In this article, we will discuss how you can allow your child to install an APK file using Google Family Link.
What is an APK file?
Before we dive into the process of installing an APK file using Google Family Link, let’s first understand what an APK file is. An APK (Android Package Kit) file is a package format used by Android operating systems for the distribution and installation of mobile apps.
Why would you need to install an APK file?
There are several reasons why you may need to install an APK file. Some developers choose not to publish their apps on the Google Play Store due to various reasons. In such cases, developers make their app available via their website or other sources in the form of an APK file.
How do I allow my child to install an APK using Google Family Link?
Here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Enable app installs from unknown sources
- Open the Family Link app on your device
- Select your child’s account
- Tap “App activity”
- Select “More”
- Toggle on “Allow app installs from unknown sources”
This will allow your child’s device to install apps from sources other than the Google Play Store.
Step 2: Download and Install the desired APK file
Once you have enabled app installs from unknown sources, you can download the desired APK file on your child’s device. You can do this in two ways:
Method 1: Download the APK file on your computer and transfer it to your child’s device
- Download the APK file on your computer
- Connect your child’s device to the computer using a USB cable
- Transfer the APK file to your child’s device
- Open the File Manager app on your child’s device
- Navigate to the folder where you transferred the APK file and tap on it
- Select “Install”
Method 2: Download the APK file directly on your child’s device using a web browser
- Open a web browser on your child’s device (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.)
- Navigate to the website where you can download the desired APK file (make sure it is a trusted source)
- Download the APK file by tapping on the download button/link
- The downloaded APK file will appear in your notifications or downloads folder. Tap on it.
- Select “Install”
Note:
Before downloading any app from sources other than Google Play Store, make sure that you are downloading it from a trusted source. Some apps may contain viruses or malware that could harm your child’s device.
In conclusion, allowing your child to install an APK using Google Family Link is not complicated. By following these simple steps, you can provide access to apps that are not available in Google Play Store while ensuring their safety and security.