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If you cannot download the ExpressVPN Android app from Google Play or an equivalent app store, you can download its APK file from the ExpressVPN website. APK, which stands for Android Package Kit, is the file format that Android uses to distribute or install apps. It allows you to install apps on your device manually without Google Play or an app store.

Important: Only download the ExpressVPN APK directly from the official ExpressVPN website. Do not download it from third-party sites, as they may contain viruses or malware.
Important: The ExpressVPN Android app requires Android 7.0 or above to run.

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Note for Chromebook users
1. Enable APK installations on your Android device
2. Download and set up the ExpressVPN APK app

Note for Chromebook users

The Google Play Store is unavailable on Chromebook models released before 2021 that receive extended security updates. However, it is not recommended to attempt APK installations on Chromebooks because the process requires turning on ADB debugging or developer mode.

Enabling ADB debugging requires you to use the Linux terminal and debugging commands, which can be difficult. Turning on developer mode, which we strongly advise against, will disable important built-in protections and erase local data on your Chromebook.

You can regain access to the Play Store by downgrading ChromeOS to version M149 via a USB recovery method and opting out of extended updates. However, this leaves your device vulnerable to unpatched security vulnerabilities.

A safer option is to set up ExpressVPN on your router so that all devices connected to it, including your Chromebook, use the VPN connection.

1. Enable APK installations on your Android device

By default, Android disables APK installations for security reasons. To download the APK file of the ExpressVPN Android app, you will have to enable APK installations on your device. Follow the instructions specific to your device version and phone brand below.

Android 8 or above

Samsung devices

  1. On your device, tap Settings > Apps.
  2. At the top-right, tap Vertical ellipsis..
  3. Tap Special access > Install unknown apps.
  4. Tap the browser you are using to download the APK, such as Chrome.
  5. If prompted, toggle Allow from this source on.

Non-Samsung devices

  1. On your device, go to Settings.
  2. Tap Apps.
  3. Tap Special app access.
  4. Tap Install unknown apps.
  5. Tap the browser you are using to download the APK, such as Chrome.
  6. If prompted, toggle Allow from this source on.

Android 7

  1. On your device, tap Settings.
  2. Tap Security.
  3. Under Device administration, toggle Unknown sources on.

Need help? Contact the ExpressVPN Support Team for immediate assistance.

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2. Download and set up the ExpressVPN APK app

Follow these instructions to download and install the ExpressVPN APK to your device.

Important: After the download is complete, you should immediately disable APK installations for the app you used to download the file. This helps you prevent installing potentially harmful or malicious apps from unsafe sources.

Need help? Contact the ExpressVPN Support Team for immediate assistance.

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