And if you want to sideload Android apps on Chromebooks without messing around with Linux, this is the path you'll want to take.īefore enabling Developer mode, you'll first want to make sure any and all important files on your Chromebook are backed up and/or saved elsewhere.
With the latter, you are able to test out new ChromeOS features that Google is working on before they are moved to either the Beta or Stable Channels.ĭeveloper mode essentially unlocks your Chromebook's bootloader, making it possible to install Android apps through APK files, as opposed to the Play Store. When it comes to Chromebooks, there's a difference between enabling Developer mode and using the Developer channel. Provided that the APK was properly installed, you have successfully sideloaded your first Android app onto your Chromebook! As a reminder, make sure that whatever APK file you install comes from a trusted source.