Google has recently released the new version of Chromecast, and the internet giant is now ready to compete with devices such as the Amazon fire stick and Roku. The new Google Chromecast comes with Google TV interface and a remote for the first time ever. Now, you donโt need your phone or tablet to control the device, and you can install any apk you desire.
However, sideloading apps on the device arenโt as straightforward. There are several steps that you need to follow that arenโt necessary for other devices that run Android TV. In this guide, we will show you how to install apks on Chromecast.
The risk of using third-party apps with Chromecast
Google does not prevent you from installing third-party apps. However, the reason for making installation a little more difficult is because most sideloaded apps are used for illegal streaming.
Remember that accessing copyrighted material is illegal, and there are organizations working hard to curb the practice. This means that if you decide to sideload streaming apps, you need to take some precautions.
Use a VPN
The best way you can stay private and anonymous is by using a VPN. A VPN will encrypt your traffic to ensure that your ISP canโt know what you are doing, and it will also change your IP address to make your online activities anonymous. These IP addresses are usually shared between many users, and so it will be hard to trace you down.
Nevertheless, the level of privacy you get as well as the streaming experience depends on the VPN you choose.
The best VPN for Chromecast
At BestDroidPlayer, we highly recommend that you go for IPVanish as itโs the best VPN for streaming. Hereโs a quick overview of the VPN.
- โก Superb Speeds: Guarantees a smooth live streaming experience.
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- ๐ Best in Privacy: The VPN doesnโt keep any activity logs, and so your activities are only known to you.
- ๐ Top-notch Security: This VPN uses AES 256-bit encryption and provides multiple protocols alongside other security features such as a kill switch, DNS & IPv6 protection and WireGuard.
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On top of the above, the VPN is currently offering a 81% to BestDroidPlayer readers. You can subscribe using the button below, and youโll still be eligible for the 100% money-back guarantee.
Also, check out 15 awesome things you can do with a VPN
How to install APKs on Google Chromecast
Step 1: Install Downloader app
To be able to install apks on Chromecast, we need to install an app that will facilitate the download as well as the installation. There are several file managers that you can use to do this, but we recommend that you opt for the Downloader app.
The app is readily available on the Play Store, and so you only need to do a few things to install it.
- Go to the search option on the top side of the homepage
- Type โDownloader appโ and search
- The app should open with an option to install. Just hit the โinstallโ button.
Once itโs installed, do not open it yet.
Step 2: Unlock developer mode
Before you can install apks on Chromecast, you first need to activate developer permissions. To do this:
- Hold down the home button and select โSettingsโ from the menu on the top right.
- Scroll down and open โSystemโ
- Select โAboutโ
Now, scroll down to the bottom and youโll see the option โAndroid TV OS build.โ Press several times until you get the message that says, โYou are now a developer!โ at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3: Enable โUnknown Sourcesโ
Now, go back to the main settings page. From there:
- Select โAppsโ
- Scroll down to โSecurity & Restrictionsโ
- Select Unknown sources.
On that page, you will find the Downloader app we installed as a potential source. After reading the warning, flip the toggle to blue in order to enable its ability to install unknown apps.
Now, you can launch downloader.
Step 4: Configuring Downloader app
When downloader opens for the first time, it will request permission to access files. Select โAllowโ to grant.
Now, since Google doesnโt allow browsers on the Google TV app store, you need to download a browser plugin for downloader. To do so, simply type browser.aftvnews.com into the URL field and select Go.
The plugin will start downloading, and the Downloader will then give you an option to install it. After that, click โDoneโ, and you will get an option to delete the file and free up space.
Step 5: Download the apk file using Downloader
Now, everything is set for you to download apks using direct links or by visiting the applicationโs website.
To download an apk file, enter the URL into the URL field on the Downloader page
If itโs a direct link, the file should start downloading. If itโs not, you can scroll to the download button, and the apk file will download. You can also use the browser option in the Downloader to search for the app on Google.
From there, just click โInstallโ, then โDone.โ After that, you will get the option to delete the file and clear space.
To know the apps you can install to enhance your streaming experience, we usually provide updated guides for the best and the latest Apks. You can check out our compilation of the best Apks to stream Live TV and best Apks for movies and TV shows.
You can now find the newly installed application in your app list. Launch your app, and enjoy safe streaming.
Wrap up
For the first time, the new Google Chromecast comes with Google TV and a remote. Once you have settled and installed the right Apps, you are ready to get the most from this excellent device.
But before you launch it, ensure that your IPVanish app is connected to a server. For the best streaming speeds, you can use a server near you. After that, open your app and enjoy your streaming!
Have good streaming!
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