Most users use the Android Market place to download and install their applications.  But what if you have an .apk file you want to install manually via Windows XP?

The Android Awarding Package File (apk) is the native file format to Android.  It is the package of installer and program files rolled into 1 simple format.
I recently had this problem with the Samsung Milky way Tab x.one 4G LTE tablet that I use here at Softonic in San Francisco.  My HTC Thunderbolt is recognized past Windows XP and I tin employ Windows Explorer to control my music (though now with Music WithMe, I sync wirelessly from iTunes).
The problem that arose was the Galaxy Tab is non recognized as a removable device in Windows XP.  It's recognized through the Android SDK, but non in Windows OS.  So what happens when you need to install an apk, merely the device is not recognized by Windows XP?
There are multiple ways to install an apk, but all of them utilize the Android SDK in some mode.  This system uses the Android SDK and tools in the same package to install the apk and I plant that it is the easiest.
Download the Android SDK and install in Windows XP.
The install will take some time and even after the completing, the Android SDK likes to constantly update itself.  Make sure y'all install updates because they e'er incorporate the latest files for devices.
Download and install Astro File Manager to your Android device.
Honestly, Astro File Manager should be 1 of the outset apps installed on a new Android device.  The utilities included in the programme are really useful.

Connect your device via USB to the computer and run the Android SDK executable.

In the folder where the Android SDK was installed, there should exist a folder called "tools."

Find the MS-DOS Batch File called "ddms" and open up it. You should come across your device listed in the name box.

Head over to the "Device" tab and click for the pull downwards menu.  Yous can also take screenshots of the tablet through this as well. Click on "File Explorer" and a new window will open.  There are a lot of dissimilar folders, but locate the binder where the majority of your information is stored.

On the tablet, it'south under sdcard.  Clicking the "+" button gives the choice of adding a new folder.  Rename the folder to whatever you want and click ok. I called my folder "fire."

At present yous can import the apk onto the device. Click on the button to push the file onto the device. A new pop-upward window will appear, discover the location of the file and printing open.  It will import the apk onto the device.

Now that the file is on the device, get and open Astro File Manager.  Click on the folder where y'all imported the file and you volition see the apk sitting inside.

It volition give two options: browse file and open up app managing director.  We want to choose the 2d option.

Now click install and the app volition be installed on the device.

The app is installed and now playable.

The user controlled apk install process is relatively painless and takes effectually five minutes to consummate, non including installing the necessary software. Android users should have the Android SDK and Astro File Managing director because they are essential utilities.
Users should explore all the options of the Android SDK and especially Astro File Manager.  Being able to directly command files from the device is a very useful tool.  Sometimes those files you thought were deleted are withal hiding on the device.