How to allow installing apps from unknown sources (APK) on a Google Pixel (Android 17)

Device

Android

Shown on

Google Pixel 10a, Android 17 (build CP3A.261005.005)

App

Settings

Path

Settings › Apps › Special app access › Install unknown apps

Real screenshots

5 of 5 steps

Checked

October 2026

Sources

4 official, linked below

Step by step

1. 

   Open Special app access

   Open Settings and tap Apps. Scroll to the bottom and tap Special app access.

   Done

2. 

   Tap Install unknown apps

   Install unknown apps is near the bottom of the list, below Unrestricted mobile data.

   Done

3. 

   Pick the app that has the APK

   The list shows apps that can install other apps. Ours had Chrome, Drive, Files by Google and Gmail, all Not allowed. Tap the one you'll open the APK with; for a download from the web that is usually Chrome.

   Done

4. 

   Turn on Allow from this source

   Turn on Allow from this source. On ours the switch simply turned on, with no extra pop-up. We turned it off again straight after.

   Done

5. 

   Read the warning

   The page says your phone and personal data are more vulnerable to attack by unknown apps, and that you are responsible for any damage or loss of data.

   Done

If you do not see this option

• No "Unknown sources" switch for the whole phone? There isn't one on our Pixel. The permission is set app by app, under Install unknown apps. Google says some of these steps only work on Android 8.0 and up. Source: Download apps to your Android device
• Switch blocked by Advanced Protection? Google says that with Advanced Protection on, installing apps from unknown sources is blocked, and so are updates to apps installed that way. It is turned on and off under Security and privacy. Source: Improve device security with Advanced Protection for Android

If this does not work

• Play Protect warns or blocks the install? Google says Play Protect checks apps when you install them and may block an app that is known to be harmful. Don't install it. To check your phone, see how to scan for harmful apps with Play Protect. Source: Use Google Play Protect to help keep your apps safe & your data private
• Warned about an unverified developer? Google says you first turn on Allow apps from unverified developers in Developer options, which has a 24-hour delay, then tap Install anyway. See how to turn on Developer options. Source: Allow app installs from unverified developers
• Still blocked after allowing Chrome? Allow the app that actually opens the APK. If you open it from Files by Google, allow that app too. It was on our list.

About this guide

Apps from outside the Play Store come as APK files. A Pixel only installs them from an app you have allowed.

The screenshots are from our Google Pixel 10a with Android 17 (build CP3A.261005.005), in Dark mode. Every app on our list was Not allowed. We turned Chrome's switch on for one screenshot, turned it off again and didn't install anything.

Good to know

Google warns that apps from unknown sources can put your device and personal information at risk. Only install APKs from a source you trust, then turn the switch off again.

Keep your other apps up to date: how to update a Google Pixel and its apps.

In short: Settings, Apps, Special app access, Install unknown apps, pick the app, Allow from this source.