5 Android app stores you should use instead of the Google Play Store

Credit: Andy Walker / Android Authority While sideloading might be a bit harder in 2026 than in the past, it still remains one of the most distinctive features of Android compared to more locked-down platforms like iOS. This not only lets you sideload your work-in-progress app ideas, but also run unofficial apps or even third-party app stores . For those who want the widest selection and prefer to go straight through an official source, Google Play remains the very best storefront, but there are