An APK file is a file format that is used to install software on the Android OS. The APK files of Android builds are leaked in advance which means that you get an early access to new features that otherwise would not be available to you.What is an APK file?Some applications restrict their APK files to regions. Moreover, the APK files let you bypass carriers, this mean that you can get the most recent Google updates before they are aired on your network. More so, in case your smartphone cannot access the Google Play Store, the APK files are the only option you have for installing applications on your handsets.You should be cautious when installing the APK files. This is because you may download stolen applications since some of the services allow you to download pirated applications. Do some extensive research before downloading any APK file so you don’t go against the law.

How to install APK files on your Android phone

You must install the APK files on your device so that you can run it. There are 3 easy ways to install the files on your Android device:
  • Download the app from any website or Android Market directly to your SD card in your device. Tap on the APK file to install it. This is the easiest way to go.
  • Secondly, you can download the file to your PC and then mount your SD card in the PC or (connect the smartphone with the SD card inserted through a USB cable) and then copy the APK file to your SD card. Insert it back to your phone and then install the file from the SD using the File Manager or an application install. This method is recommended for installing apps that are not available on Android Market.
  • Last but not the least, install Android Software Development Kit on your PC and connect your smartphone via USB cable. Use Android Debug Bridge found in the Software Development Kit to install the APK file on your smartphone. This method is good for technical users and developers who need to install the non-market apps.
Source: Android Police

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What's my model number?

There are several ways to locate your model number:

Option 1
On your device, go to Settings, then "About device" and scroll down to "Model number"
Option 2
Often times you can view the model number inside the device, by removing the battery
Option 3
Using Samsung's model/serial number location tool

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