Google Android Play is the primary way of finding and installing apps on your Android phone or tablet - but it's not the only way. You can also download Android apps installers (called APK files) from other website or apps store.
But in order to do so, you need to make some changes to how your Android device handles software installation permissions.
here is how to install third party apps on an Android 4 device:
First, go to the Settings menu. This, too, may be different on your Android 4 device. You can find the Settings menu either by locating the icon on a Home Screen or by using the drop-down notification area and tapping the sliding bars icon:
From the Settings menu, where you would choose Applications to make the necessary change in previous versions of the OS, in Android 4 you'll go to the Security menu under the PERSONAL header:
In the Security menu, scroll down until you see the area labeled DEVICE ADMINISTRATION. Here you'll see a section called Unknown Sources. This is the option you'll need to change. Check the box (if it isn't already) in the Unknown Sources section:
Once this box is checked, you are free to install Android apps from outside the Android Market, though you can, of course, continue to use the Market as you did before.
Security Concerns:
The purpose for forcing the user to opt-in to allowing app installations from outside the Android Market is security; Google at least attempts to be sure that applications offered in the Market don't pose a threat to your device or your personal information. Installing apps from third-parties makes it easier for bad guys to misuse your device and its data.
However, as long as you're smart and install apps only from trusted sources via APK files, you should be fine.
Just be aware that there is additional risk with the Unknown Sources option box checked.
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