Most users use the Android Market to download and install their applications.  But what if you have an .apk file you want to install manually via Windows XP?





The Android Application Package File (apk) is the native file format to Android.  It is the package of installer and program files rolled into one simple format.


I recently had this problem with the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 4G LTE tablet that I use here at Softonic in San Francisco.  My HTC Thunderbolt is recognized by Windows XP and I can use Windows Explorer to control my music (though now with Music WithMe, I sync wirelessly from iTunes).

The problem that arose was the Galaxy Tab is not recognized as a removable device in Windows XP.  It’s recognized through the Android SDK, but not in Windows OS.  So what happens when you need to install an apk, but the device is not recognized by Windows XP?

There are multiple ways to install an apk, but all of them use the Android SDK in some way.  This system uses the Android SDK and tools in the same package to install the apk and I found that it is the easiest.

Download the Android SDK and install in Windows XP.

The install will take some time and even after the completing, the Android SDK likes to constantly update itself.  Make sure you install updates because they always contain the latest files for devices.

Download and install Astro File Manager to your Android device.

Honestly, Astro File Manager should be one of the first apps installed on a new Android device.  The utilities included in the program are really useful.



Connect your device via USB to the computer and run the Android SDK executable.



In the folder where the Android SDK was installed, there should be a folder called “tools.”



Find the MS-DOS Batch File called “ddms” and open it. You should see your device listed in the name box.



Head over to the “Device” tab and click for the pull down menu.  You can also take screenshots of the tablet through this as well. Click on “File Explorer” and a new window will open.  There are a lot of different folders, but locate the folder where the majority of your data is stored.



On the tablet, it’s under sdcard.  Clicking the "+" button gives the option of adding a new folder.  Rename the folder to whatever you want and click ok. I called my folder “fire."



Now you can import the apk onto the device. Click on the button to push the file onto the device. A new pop-up window will appear, find the location of the file and press open.  It will import the apk onto the device.



Now that the file is on the device, go and open Astro File Manager.  Click on the folder where you imported the file and you will see the apk sitting inside.



It will give two options: browse file and open app manager.  We want to choose the second option.



Now click install and the app will be installed on the device.



The app is installed and now playable.




The user controlled apk install process is relatively painless and takes around five minutes to complete, not including installing the necessary software.  Android users should have the Android SDK and Astro File Manager because they are essential utilities.

Users should explore all the options of the Android SDK and especially Astro File Manager.  Being able to directly control files from the device is a very useful tool.  Sometimes those files you thought were deleted are still hiding on the device.