The functionality of mobile devices using the Android operating system, the world's most popular mobile operating system, can be enhanced by installing "apps" - specialised software that allows users to use their devices for extra purposes. Apps in this format are compiled in the Android-native APK file format, which enables for easy redistribution to end-users.

The Main List of Android App Stores

The majority of programmes are released through Google's Play Store, but there are a slew of other software repositories, or app shops, to choose from. Alternative app stores install APK files directly via the Android Package Manager using the "Unknown Sources" option of Android devices.

The Google Play Store

The Google Play Store (formerly known as the Android Market) is Google's official app store for Android, allowing users to download apps created with the Android software development kit (SDK) and published through Google. Both free and premium apps are available in the shop. Apps that take advantage of a device's hardware capabilities might be tailored to users of devices with specific hardware features, such as a motion sensor (for motion-based games) or a front-facing camera (for online video calling). In 2013, the Google Play store has over 50 billion app downloads, and by 2020, it would have over 2.96 million apps available.

The Play Store is only available on devices that have been approved by the "Android Compatibility Program," despite being preloaded with most Android smartphones. As a result, developers of so-called "custom ROMs," or modified versions of Android, are prohibited from embedding Google apps, such as the Play Store, in their software. Installing Google programmes from a different source, such as OpenGApps, or using alternative app stores, can restore compatibility.

Android App Stores for Manufacturers:

Aside from not producing certified compatible versions of Android, several manufacturers have elected to bundle their own app stores, either in addition to or instead of the Play Store.

  • Samsung Galaxy Store, which is installed alongside the Play Store on Samsung mobile devices, is one such app store. The Samsung Galaxy store in India is powered by Indus App Bazaar and provides consumers with a localised experience in 12 Indian languages.
  • On Amazon's Fire Phone and Kindle Fire, the Amazon Appstore replaces the Google Play Store. The Amazon Appstore can also be downloaded from the Amazon website and installed on other Android devices. This will be the default method for installing Android apps on Windows 11.
  • AppGallery by Huawei
  • GetApps for Xiaomi Mi
  • VIVO App Store OPPO App Market

Android App Stores Run by Third Parties:

Alternative app shops that do not rely on the manufacturer's pre-installation are another way to find Android apps. Third-party apps are those that are distributed through third-party app stores or websites and are not linked with the device or operating system (OS).
  • Amazon Appstore 
  • APKMirror 
  • Aptoide 
  • XDA Labs 
  • F-Droid 
  • GetJar 
  • Itch.io 
  • Uptodown 
These are examples of such marketplaces.

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