The great freedom Android offers allows users to install apps only from the Google Play Store. It is also possible, at your own risk, to download an .apk file and install other applications called “unknown sources”.
For example, some developers allow their apps to be beta tested this way. All you have to do is click a download link to install it on your smartphone or tablet, taking care to allow downloading of files from unknown sources in the settings.
- Also read: Tutorial – How to quickly choose your default apps on Android
Google apps are also often available in .apk files before the official release. Many users like to start experimenting and tweaking a bit there. we understand you 😉
The problem with these .apk files is: Unlike Play Store apps, we don’t get alerts when an update is available.. Some users have many apps downloaded via .apk files, so it is difficult to browse the web individually and search for updates. If you are in this situation, we have a solution for you. Yes, we’re still beautiful, aren’t we?
Thanks to a simple application you will be able to automatically detect all available updates of all your apps, from Play Store or from a downloaded .apk file. Here are the steps to follow.
A little precision before we begin: We give you the method to follow to perform this manipulation. Under no circumstances can Moyens I/O be held responsible for any misuse that inconveniences your smartphone.
- start with allow uploading files from unknown sources. If you are used to downloading .apk files, you know the way. Otherwise go to Settings=>Security=>Unknown Sources
- Install the ApkTrack app available here (.apk file)
Well, you did the hardest part. Once the ApkTrack app is installed, when you want to detect the availability of updates for all your apps, do the following:
- Start ApkTrack
- Tap the search button (magnifying glass in a square) to show all your apps (including Apk and Play Store)
- Tap the “Browser” button (circle with two arrows) to check if all your apps are up to date
- If an app is out of date, a red message will appear, then you can choose to search for the new version. ApkTrack will take you directly to your preferred browser or even Apk Mirror directly. At this point, you can make your preferences in the settings.
You see, there is nothing too complicated in this manipulation that can save us a lot of time. For those of us who regularly test apps (I prefer not to say what state the menu is in), for example, it’s a great way to know where we are.
Moreover, the app is relatively easy to use and verification is super fast. As you can see from the screenshots, I have lots of apps and ApkTrack took less than a minute to scan my full smartphone.
- Also read: Tutorial – How to protect your privacy on Android
As always, we invite you to give us feedback if you try the experience. If you know of any other way to achieve the same result, or if you know any other app of this type, feel free to let us know and the rest of the Moyens I/O community.
