To install apps on a Samsung phone, you can use the Google Play Store or Samsung Galaxy Store directly on the device, or install from a computer via Google Play. Both official stores require you to sign in with the appropriate account, a Google Account for the Play Store and a Samsung account for the Galaxy Store, before you can download and install apps.
How to install apps on Samsung phone: 4 methods
- Method 1: Install apps from the Google Play Store
- Method 2: Install apps from the Samsung Galaxy Store
- Method 3: Install apps from APK files
- Method 4: Install apps from a computer
Method 1: Install apps from the Google Play Store
To install apps from the Google Play Store on your Samsung phone, you need to be signed in with a Google Account. Open the Play Store app on your device, then search or browse for the app you want. Select the app and tap Install for free apps or the item’s price for paid apps. The app will download and install automatically. From the Play Store app, you can install to another Android device (watch, TV, car) by selecting the down arrow next to Install and choosing devices.
Device compatibility is handled by Google Play, it will show whether an app is available for your specific phone. You can also install apps to a compatible device from a computer by visiting play.google.com, signing in with the same Google Account, finding the app, clicking Install, and choosing your Samsung phone from the list of devices. Availability may vary by device.
Method 2: Install apps from the Samsung Galaxy Store
Before you can install apps from the Samsung Galaxy Store, you must sign in with a Samsung account. Open the Galaxy Store app on your Galaxy phone or tablet, then search or browse for the app. Select the app and tap Install. This store is designed specifically for Galaxy devices and offers apps optimized for Samsung hardware. For support contact options, go to Menu → Settings in the Galaxy Store app.
Method 3: Install apps from APK files
To install an app from an APK file, you first need to enable the “unknown sources” setting for the source you are using, such as Chrome. Samsung documents this as tapping the switch next to the source you want to allow. APK files from untrusted sources can contain malware.
Method 4: Install apps from a computer
If you want to install apps remotely, use a computer to go to play.google.com. Sign in with the same Google Account linked to your Samsung phone, find the app, click Install, and choose your phone from the list of compatible devices. Google Play will show whether the app is available for your device. This method is useful when you want to browse apps on a larger screen or install multiple apps at once, and you can also use it to transfer data from one Samsung phone to another by installing apps that help with migration. Samsung Smart Switch is the dedicated software for installing apps from a computer to a Samsung phone. For a curated list of top picks, check out the most essential mobile apps you must download in 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I install apps on my Samsung phone?
Open the Google Play Store or Samsung Galaxy Store on your phone, sign in with the required account, search for the app, and tap Install. You can also install from a computer via play.google.com or by enabling unknown sources for APK files.
Can I install apps from sources other than the Play Store?
Yes, you can install apps from the Samsung Galaxy Store, from APK files by enabling unknown sources, or from a computer through Google Play. However, only the Play Store and Galaxy Store are officially supported by Samsung and Google for safe, verified installations.
Why can’t I install apps on my Samsung phone?
Check that you have a stable internet connection, sufficient storage space, and are signed in with the correct account. For Play Store issues, ensure your Google Account is properly linked. For Galaxy Store issues, confirm your Samsung account is active.
Are apps installed on my Samsung phone automatically updated?
Yes, both the Play Store and Galaxy Store can update apps automatically. You can manage these settings in each store’s settings menu, where you can enable or disable automatic updates for individual apps or all apps.
How do I uninstall apps from my Samsung phone?
Press and hold the app icon on your home screen or in the app drawer, then select “Uninstall” or drag it to the “Uninstall” option. You can also go to Settings > Apps, select the app, and tap “Uninstall.” Some pre-installed system apps cannot be removed.
