Updated on January 25, 2026
Installing apps from outside the official Google Play Store, a process known as sideloading, is one of the biggest perks of the Android ecosystem. However, on living room devices like the Chromecast with Google TV and other Android TV boxes, Google has added a few extra security hoops to jump through. As of 2026, to enable unknown sources on Google TV, you first have to unlock “Developer mode.”
This is your definitive, all-in-one guide for 2026. We’ll walk you through the complete, updated process step-by-step, so you can install any APK file you want on your device without jumping between different tutorials. Let’s get it done.
Important Security Warning!
Before you proceed, it’s crucial to understand the risks. By installing APKs from unverified sources (sideloading), you are bypassing the security measures of the Google Play Store. This can expose your device to malware, viruses, or apps that compromise your privacy and data. Only proceed if you fully trust the source of the APK file. We are not responsible for any potential damage to your device.
The Complete 2026 Guide to Enabling Unknown Sources on Google TV
To grant permissions to install unknown apps, you first have to become a “developer” in the eyes of the system. Don’t worry, it sounds more complicated than it is. Here’s the streamlined process.
Step 1: Enable Developer Mode on Your Google TV
This is the essential first step that unlocks the option we need. Without it, the “Unknown sources” setting will be grayed out and you won’t be able to change it.
- From your Google TV home screen, navigate to the gear icon (Settings) in the top-right corner.
- In the Settings menu, scroll down and select System.
- Next, go into the About section.
[Screenshot: ‘System’ menu with the ‘About’ option highlighted.] - Scroll down until you find the Android TV OS build option.
- Here’s the trick: Highlight “Android TV OS build” and press the center button on your remote 7 times in a row. You’ll see a small toast message counting down the remaining steps.
- On the seventh press, a confirmation message will appear: “You are now a developer!”
[Screenshot: “You are now a developer!” confirmation message at the bottom of the screen.]
That’s it! You’ve successfully enabled developer mode on your Google TV. Now we can move on to part two.
Step 2: Grant Permissions to Install Unknown Apps
With Developer options active, the setting that was previously locked is now accessible. Let’s head back to the main Settings menu.
- From the main Settings screen, select Apps.
- Scroll down and click on Security & Restrictions.
[Screenshot: ‘Apps’ menu with ‘Security & Restrictions’ selected.] - You’ll now see the Unknown sources option. Select it.
- A list of installed apps capable of managing and installing APK files will appear here. For example, if you have the “Downloader” or “Send Files to TV” app installed, you’ll see them in this list.
- Simply toggle the switch on for the app you plan to use to install APKs on your Google TV. In my case, I’m granting permission to the Downloader app.
[Screenshot: List of apps under “Unknown sources” with the toggle enabled for the “Downloader” app.]
With that, your Google TV is officially ready for sideloading. The app you just granted permission to can now install any APK file you download or transfer to your device.
Popular Methods for Sideloading APKs on Google TV
Now that you’ve configured the permissions, you need a way to get the APK files onto your device. Here’s a comparison of the most efficient methods in 2026 to sideload apps on your Chromecast with Google TV.
| Method | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downloader App | An all-in-one web browser and download manager. Lets you enter direct URLs to download APKs. | Very direct and fast. No other devices needed. Great for downloading from known repositories. | Typing long URLs with the remote can be tedious. |
| Send Files to TV | Lets you easily transfer files from your phone, tablet, or computer to your Google TV over your WiFi network. | Perfect for APKs you already have on another device. Simple interface and fast transfer speeds. | Requires the app on both the Google TV and the source device. |
| Cloud Storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) | Upload the APK to your cloud service, then download it on your Google TV using a compatible file manager (e.g., FX File Explorer). | Reliable and accessible from anywhere. Good for keeping a collection of APKs handy. | More complex: involves uploading, installing a file manager, signing in, and then downloading. |
Personally, for direct downloads from a URL, the Downloader app on Google TV is my go-to for its simplicity. For files I already have on my PC or phone, Send Files to TV is unbeatable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Let’s clear up some of the most common questions that pop up during this process.
- Why is the “Unknown sources” option still grayed out?
- The almost certain cause is that you haven’t enabled “Developer options.” Follow Step 1 of this guide (tapping the build number 7 times), and the option will become selectable.
- Is it safe to install any APK?
- No. As noted in the warning, you should only install APK files from trusted sources and reputable developers. Unknown websites or suspicious links can contain malware.
- After installing an app this way, will it update automatically?
- No. Sideloaded applications are not linked to the Google Play Store, so they will not auto-update. You will need to manually download and install new versions (APKs) the same way you installed the original.
- Can I reverse these changes?
- Yes. You can disable the permission for each app individually by going back to Settings > Apps > Security & Restrictions > Unknown sources. To hide the “Developer options” menu completely, a factory reset is usually the easiest way, although some Android TV versions may have a switch to disable it within the developer menu itself.
Conclusion: The Power of Sideloading in 2026
Knowing how to enable unknown sources on Google TV opens up a world of possibilities, from installing open-source media centers like Kodi and its best addons, to powerful tools not available on the official store. While Google has made the process slightly more convoluted by requiring developer mode activation, it’s still a straightforward procedure for any user.
Remember to always prioritize your security and only download files from sources you trust. With this guide, you have everything you need to take full control of your Google TV device in 2026.