App side loader for Android TV
Sideload Launcher - Android TV
is a free
utility
application developed by Chainfire. It's an
Android TV
tool that lets users
sideload apps
that would otherwise not be possible with the default launcher interface. It's quick to install and
is ready to use straight out of the box
without any additional setup.
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Apart from officially supported apps like
YouTube for Android TV
or
Puffin TV Browser
, Sideload Launcher - Android TV serves as a
workaround solution
for when users are unable to locate and open
unrecognized APK files
that are stored on their devices and make them work.
Simple solution to a simple problem
Android TV is basically a stripped-down version of the Android mobile OS, thus you can
install apps directly
from the Google Play Store. However, that's not always the case and you're left with
unrecognized applications
that you can see or open on the default launcher interface. Enter Sideload Launcher - Android TV, an app that was made specifically to address this particular problem.
Sideload Launcher - Android TV is essentially
an alternative launcher
that you can use for your smart TV and other compatible media devices. What's different is that it's more akin to a
phone or tablet launcher
that can display every single installed app that the default one can't see or simply hides due to possible compatibility issues, lack of optimization, and other similar concerns.
All your sideloaded apps will be displayed in a
drawer-style layout
for you to browse. From there, it's just a matter of launching them and using them as you would any other. On the same note, this is where things can get complicated as
there's no guarantee
that an application will run properly despite being recognized and can be opened — your mileage will vary.
Worth a shot
If you're experiencing issues with sideloaded apps not appearing on Android TV, give Sideload Launcher - Android TV a try. While it's not a complete certainty that they will run properly, it's
worth the effort of finding out
for yourself instead of letting the OS decide for you. It takes no time at all to install and can serve as a replacement launcher if needed.