5 Tips for sideloading Android apps on BlackBerry Z10
Tags :BlackBerry Android Z10 sideloading
As I use my BlackBerry Z10 from Verizon more and discover more things it does, sideloading Android apps is a highlight. Here are some top tips
1. Load the very latest BlackBerry updates from your provider. Numerous native and Android apps will fail to work without the recent updates. For example, Verizon is currently in the 10.0.10.XXX version. If you were still running 10.0.9.422 then apps like WhatsApp would fail to install or update. See this Verizon community thread for an example
2. Find a good source off Android app for BlackBerry 10. GoodEReader is an excellent source I have found so far. Check for the latest update for the Android apps on the site. For example Instagram versions from March 2013 are not blocked by Instagram. You will need to make sure you have the latest. The comments do a great job of letting you know if people are successful with that version.
3. Get the BlackBerry 10 / Playbook app manager Chrome extension to make everything run smooth. Load the extension into your browser first. Then simply place your Z10 in development mode in settings, connect via USB and browse to the IP address your phone shows. This is usually a 169.254.0.x address. NOTE: Disable Mass Media Storage mode just when doing this step as it blocks the browsing.
4. Go a bit fancier (for geekier users) and load either vnBB10, Schibar or DDPB onto your PC to sideload the apps. This is like the Chrome extension but without the simplicity of the web browser. It is not more difficult but some people just like the look and feel of the browser.
5. Do not be afraid to test and play. You can easily remove the apps just as you installed them. Launch the Chrome extension and just pick the ones to remove. Remember some apps will not be perfect in terms of camera access and navigation.
I have quite a few loaded now including Instagram and Tripit. I am hoping they finally update native applications (mainly Tripit that is a business users travel app need). Some apps like Dropbox and WhatsApp are already native and Skype is still in beta.
What are your favorite Android apps you have loaded on to your BlackBerry 10?
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On Wednesday, September 11th, 2013 by Chris Miller
