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Add additional applications

How to install additional apps on Sidephone via the App Library and by sideloading.

Updated over a week ago

Summary

Add apps to Sidephone through the App Library by scanning QR codes for App Packs and then installing apps in a second step.

If you purchased the Compact QWERTY keypad, you should install and enable JakeType first, as it is required for the compact QWERTY keypad to function.

Steps

Prerequisite (Compact QWERTY users only)

  1. If you are using the Compact QWERTY keypad, open App Library first

  2. Scan the Input App Pack QR code and install JakeType before downloading other apps. JakeType is then enabled in Settings -> System -> Languages & Input -> On-screen keyboard -> JakeType

Using the App Library (recommended)

  1. Open App Library from the Home screen

  2. Tap the QR code button

  3. Tap Scan QR code and scan the App Pack that contains the app you want (e.g., Maps)

  4. Confirm the new apps now appear in your App Library

  5. Tap an app and select Install to add it to your device

  6. Repeat Step 7 for any additional apps you want

Browsing supported apps

  1. Browse available App Packs inside the App Library

  2. Install only the apps you intend to use (two-step installation is intentional)

Sideloading (advanced / optional)

  1. Download a trusted .apk file to Sidephone via the Internet, USB, or LocalSend

  2. Open the file and follow on-screen prompts to install

  3. Review permissions before confirming installation

Considerations

  • Compact QWERTY not typing correctly: Ensure JakeType is installed and selected as the active keyboard

  • No QR code button visible: Go to App Library → Settings → Repositories → ‘+’ → Scan QR code

  • Two-step install confusion: Step 1 adds apps to your Library; Step 2 installs them to the device

  • No Wi-Fi/LTE: You cannot download apps without connectivity (Wi-Fi recommended)

  • App doesn’t fit the screen well: Only “supported apps” are optimized for Sidephone’s 2.8" display

  • Third-party F-Droid repos: These can be scanned, but apps are not guaranteed to work perfectly

When to Contact Support

Create a support ticket if apps consistently fail to appear in the App Library after scanning, or if installations repeatedly fail despite working internet and sufficient storage.

What to Collect for Support

  • Whether the user is connected to Wi-Fi or LTE

  • Whether the QR code button appears in App Library

  • Which App Pack or .apk they are trying to install

  • Whether the user has (or needs) the Compact QWERTY keypad

  • Whether JakeType is installed (if using Compact QWERTY)

  • Exact error message (if any)

  • Whether the app appears in App Library but fails to install

Related Articles
Setting up Sidephone as a first phone (eg. for kids)
Set up Sidephone for the first time
Configure your keypad
Officially supported applications
Set up and enable Sidephone's Compact QWERTY keypad
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