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Android devices are among the most popular and versatile on the market. And if you have an Android device, sooner or later you are going to use some apps. The primary source of those for Android is Google Play. While they do offer millions of applications that do anything and everything, it is not the only source you have.
There are a large number of different stores online where you can find and download Android apps. But you must stay cautious. If there is a wonderful “store” offering that app you wanted for free, it doesn’t mean you should download it. You could be putting yourself at risk, so take necessary precautions.
So instead of searching for an app store yourself, check these 6 Google Play alternatives.
1. Aptoide
Aptoide is a community-driven store that has been around for quite some time now. It offers a different way to find applications, as users make apps available in their own stores. It means that you are not going to have a primary seller like in a lot of the other stores.
Aptoide acts as a virtual flea-market for app developers. You buy apps from different users themselves. It allows for a more personal type of transaction. Some developers prefer this platform due to their freedom and ability to be more creative. If you are looking for a new kind of app store, Aptoide may be just what you need.
2. Amazon App Store
Since Amazon seems to do absolutely everything these days, it makes sense that they would have a marketplace for digital goods. They are, by far, the most significant competitor that the Google Play store has, and offer a vast selection to Android users. Amazon also often has lower prices on popular apps and games as well, so it is an excellent alternative for anyone.
Another reason to look into the Amazon App Store is the free premium apps you get with a membership. Every day they choose one premium app to give members for free. Add in a massive selection of movies, television, music, and books, and you have a new service to check out.
3. F-Droid
If you are looking for an app marketplace that is entirely devoid of monetization, this is the place for you. F-Droid is run by volunteers and only stocks apps that are free and open-source. Members of this community are dedicated to designing and building apps for everyone to use. You may find some unique things that are not available anywhere else.
4. SlideME
This particular app store is very much akin to Google Play and the Amazon App Store. It gives you a choice between premium and free-to-download apps and has a larger selection than a lot of the other stores. SlideME is a great place to check for deals on those expensive apps you have been waiting to go down in price.
5. Uptodown
Uptodown is a popular app store alternative all across the world, as it is available in twelve different languages. It is not only an app store that offers free and paid apps, but it also does a lot more. It has a blog that provides advice on development and technical issues. Plus, it has a bevy of information about software.
Moreover, the Uptodown marketplace is under the protection of VirusTotal. The service comprises scans from 50 different antivirus programs every day. It scans and tests all apps in this marketplace to make sure they are virus-free.
6. Mobogenie
The last alternative on this list has a bit of a reputation for helping people find that needle in the haystack. If you have been struggling to find a particular app, the best place to look is Mobogenie. You can choose from categories of free and premium apps, and they host some unique and tough to find options.
You Must Be Careful
If something seems too good to be true, then it most likely always is. You have a lot of different alternatives available to the Google Play Store. Some of the free offers can be pretty enticing. But if you don’t stay alert, you open your device and network to risk of malware, viruses, and hackers looking to cause problems.
One example is free apps. If you download a free VPN or antivirus, instead of keeping your connection or device secure, it can log and sell your data. That’s why you should be cautious with free apps and instead buy premium VPN or cybersecurity apps.
Moreover, make sure to only download apps from trusted sources that have a good reputation. Always check the app permissions before downloading. If an app wants to access more than it needs to function, rather choose an alternative.