Can you install normal android apps on devices with android tv?

by Lowfryder7

Like let's say I wanted to sideload an app from fdroid. Would that work?

Boris-Lip

Yes, but... a pretty damn BIG butt. While you definitely can upload an APK to it any way you want, and there are plenty (ADB, specialized apps and whats not), prepare to experience the following:

  • not seeing the apps in the stock launcher unless you use a helper app (this isn't because of the sideloading, but because of the way apps register on that launcher)

  • countless apps cannot be fully operated by remote, you'll end up hooking up keyboard/mice (or an "air/gyro-mouse")

  • some apps refuse to go landscape, those are going to be rotated 90 degrees.

  • apps counting on notifications that you can't see

... and probably a gazillion of other annoyances.

ceeehhh8990_

Yep but you will have to get the sideload app from play store to view them otherwise you'll have to go to settings>apps and find them. The one I use is sideload channel cos you can set up customized channels and add apps like native/non-native apps and have them displayed on the home screen for easy access 👌