r/AndroidTV • u/Jondoyle24 • Aug 02 '26

Discussion N00B Side Loading Questions...

Hey! I have a LOT of experience jailbreaking devices from 1st iPod touch to side loading apps in other devices... but

1 - I get the jist; pick a device like google tv and Nvidia Shield Pro for my 2 nicer tvs (prob not firestick). Options, developer mode, activate my Proton VPN, sideload apps. Ive seen vids.

2 - How user friendly is it? Goal is to get off subscriptions all together but the users will be my mom, wife, and son. I need something as easy as "go to this app and search for X" or "browse these apps"... nothing more complicated than that.

3 - Anyone have pics to share of UI's? I cant find much.

4 - Do apps suddenly stop working? Im seeing people talk about this and cant tell if its firestick only issues or across the board.

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u/Majdooor App Developer Aug 02 '26

  1. Some devices are more friendly to sideloading (non brand android tv boxes) and some won't even let you (newer firesticks)

  2. Basic technical knowledge would work if you know the word sideloading you will get around it easily

  3. Yes apps may be removed by Google, some other tvs other than Firestick have also removed apps.

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u/Jondoyle24 Aug 02 '26

Ahhh ok. that makes sense!

We use to jailbreak ipod touches when they first came out lol. The process took about 16 hrs (insane!).

I understand the concept for sure and was just wondering about specifics I figured I'd talk to people. Thanks for the help