Ultimate Guide: Installing and Updating Open-Source Android Apps Directly from GitHub

Updated at: 09/06/2025

Tired of waiting for app updates? This ultimate guide shows you how to install and update open-source Android apps directly from GitHub, bypassing the Google Play Store. Learn how to safely download APKs, manage updates, and contribute to your favorite projects. Unlock a world of flexibility and control over your Android experience – let's dive in!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Install RSS Reader

    • Download and install an RSS reader app (e.g., Readr).
    Download and install an RSS reader app (e.g., Readr).
    Install RSS Reader

  2. Locate App's GitHub Repository

    • Find the GitHub repository for the app you want to install.
    Find the GitHub repository for the app you want to install.
    Locate App's GitHub Repository

  3. Find and Copy Release URL

    • Go to the 'Releases' section of the GitHub repository.
    • Copy the URL of the releases page.
    Copy the URL of the releases page.
    Find and Copy Release URL

  4. Add Feed to RSS Reader

    • Open your RSS reader app and add the copied URL, appending '.atom' to the end.
    • Enable notifications for the feed.
    • Subscribe to the feed.
    Subscribe to the feed. Subscribe to the feed. Subscribe to the feed.
    Add Feed to RSS Reader

  5. Update App

    • When a new release is available, you'll receive a notification. Open the notification, navigate to the release page on GitHub, and download the APK.
    • Manually install the downloaded APK.
    Manually install the downloaded APK. Manually install the downloaded APK.
    Update App

  6. Handle Update Conflicts (Signature Mismatch)

    • If updating an app, uninstall the existing version before installing the new APK from Github to avoid signature mismatch issues.
    If updating an app, uninstall the existing version before installing the new APK from Github to avoid signature mismatch issues.
    Handle Update Conflicts (Signature Mismatch)
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Tips

  • Use f-droid.org or its Cloudflare mirror (cloudflare.f-droid.org) to easily find the source code links for apps.
  • Only install releases tagged as 'latest' to avoid installing pre-release or beta versions.
  • Be mindful of multiple APK versions (e.g., f-droid, Google Play, public) available on some app's GitHub pages; download the correct one.
  • Back up your RSS feed (redo.opml) regularly to avoid losing your subscriptions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Downloading the wrong file

Reason: Users often download the source code instead of the compiled APK file.
Solution: Ensure you download the `.apk` file, not a `.zip` or other source code archive.

2. Ignoring security warnings

Reason: Installing apps from unknown sources can be risky; ignoring security warnings from the Android system can lead to malware installation.
Solution: Carefully review the developer's reputation and enable 'Unknown sources' in Android settings only temporarily for trusted sources.

3. Incorrect installation method

Reason: Simply downloading the APK doesn't install it. Users might fail to locate the downloaded file or use the incorrect method to install it.
Solution: Locate the downloaded APK file using a file manager and tap on it to initiate the installation process.

FAQs

Is it safe to install APKs from GitHub?
While generally safer than untrusted sources, installing APKs from GitHub still carries risk. Always verify the app's developer and source code before installing. Look for reputable projects with many contributors and positive reviews. Consider using a reputable antivirus app after installation.
How do I update an app installed from GitHub?
The update process depends on how the developer releases updates. Some developers provide direct download links for newer versions. Others might require you to manually download the updated APK from a new release on GitHub and reinstall it. Always back up your data before updating.