Not all apps are available on the official Play Store. Developers often use alternative distribution methods, such as third-party app stores or tools like Updraft, to share their apps with testers or teams before an official release. This approach helps gather valuable feedback early in the development process.
By default, Android blocks the installation of apps from outside the Play Store. If you attempt to install an app from a platform like Updraft, you’ll see a message like this:
"Install blocked. For security, your phone is set to block installation of applications not obtained from Play Store."
Don’t worry—this is a standard security feature. To proceed, you’ll need to update your device settings to allow installations from “unknown sources.” As a precaution, only install apps from developers or sources you trust.
Follow these steps to install Android apps from platforms like Updraft:
Now, go back and reopen the app you downloaded—it should install without any issues.
Once you enable installation from unknown sources, the setting remains active. If you wish to revert this after installing the app, simply return to your device settings and disable the Unknown Sources option. By doing so, your device will block any future installations from outside the Play Store, adding an extra layer of security.