Summary
A supported app may fail to install because of insufficient storage, blocked installations from unknown sources, a corrupted download, or an incompatible app build; the steps below remove these common blockers.
Steps
Confirm you are installing a supported version of the app.
Use the app version recommended by Sidephone (from our official website and in a trusted repository)Check available storage.
Go to Settings → Storage and ensure you have at least 1–2 GB free.Delete the existing APK and re-download it.
Remove the installer file, download a fresh copy, and try again.Restart the phone and try again.
Reboot Sidephone and attempt installation once more.Reformat the phone and try again.
Reset Sidephone to factory settings and attempt installation once more.
Considerations
De-Googled limitation (expected behavior): Some apps distribute only Google Play builds or require Google Play Services; these will not install or function on Sidephone even if the APK installs. This guide applies only to apps that are already supported on Sidephone.
Split/Bundle apps: If an app uses app bundles (.apkm/.xapk), you must use a compatible installer that supports bundles.
Security blocks: Very old apps or apps targeting outdated Android versions may be blocked by the system.
Corporate profiles: If the device is managed, your organization may block certain app installs.
When to Contact Support
Contact Support if a supported app still fails to install after all steps above.
What to Collect for Support
Sidephone model and OS version
Have you ever added your own OS or ROM, or attempted to do so?
App name and exact version you tried to install
Source of the APK
Exact error message shown
Approximate storage free at time of install
Did this app ever install successfully before?