A Samsung TV cannot support APK file installations like an
Android device. Unlike Android, Samsung TVs rely on TPK files instead of APK
files. TPK files are specific to the Tizen OS. While Android has a vast Play
Store, the Tizen Store offers fewer apps.
To address this, you can opt to install third-party TPK
files for desired apps on your Samsung Smart TV. Various online guides detail
this process, which might initially seem complex. However, no advanced
technical skills are needed. This article aims to simplify the steps, making
them accessible even if you're not tech-savvy.
Why might you need to install third-party apps on a Samsung
Smart TV? APK files, designed for Android devices, won't work on Samsung TVs
powered by Tizen OS. Although both OS are Linux-based, they differ
fundamentally, with Tizen developed in C++ and Android in Java. Consequently,
attempting to install APK files on a Samsung TV won't succeed due to
compatibility issues and built-in security measures.
Two Approaches to Installing Third-Party Apps on Samsung
Smart TV There are essentially two effective methods: one using command prompts
and SDB, and the other involving the installation of third-party TPK files via
USB or external hard drives.
This article delves into the details of successfully
installing and running third-party apps on Samsung Smart TVs through either of
these pathways.
Installing Third-Party Apps on Samsung Smart TV via Command Prompts
To achieve this, you can download TPK files for desired apps
and install them using SDB. Alternatively, copy the files directly to the TV
and then install these third-party apps. For the entire process, including
setting up a debug bridge and allowing app installation from unknown sources,
follow these steps.
1. Activating Developer Mode on Samsung Smart TV
Enabling Developer Mode is necessary for testing and
debugging apps before TPK installation. You'll also need to connect your TV to
a computer.
To enable Developer Mode:
- Access the Smart Hub on your Samsung TV.
- Choose "Apps."
- Enter the "Magic Sequence" 1-2-3-4-5 using your
remote or on-screen keypad.
- Turn on Developer Mode.
This step activates Developer Mode. Next, establish a
connection between your computer and TV. On Windows systems:
- Simultaneously press Win key + R key.
- In the Run box, type "cmd" and hit Enter.
- In the appearing dialogue box, type "ipconfig"
and hit Enter.
- Note the IPv4 address displayed.
- Enter this IP address as the Host PC IP on your TV.
- Reboot your TV.
On macOS systems:
- Open Terminal.
- Type "/sbin/ifconfig" and hit Enter to get the
IPv4 address.
- Enter this IP address on your TV as the Host PC IP.
- Reboot your TV.
With these steps, you're prepared to perform advanced tasks
on your Samsung TV, including app installation from various third-party
sources.
2. Allowing "Installation from Unknown Sources"
To install apps from TPK files, you must enable
installations from unverified sources:
- Select "Settings" from the TV's bottom right
corner.
- Navigate to "Security" >
"Personal."
- Activate "Allow Installation From Unknown
Sources."
Now, with this setting enabled, you can proceed to install
third-party apps on your TV.
3. Adding Third-Party Apps Using Command Prompt
Tizen OS offers a debug bridge that connects via USB or
Wi-Fi for app debugging, installation, and data copying with admin permissions.
Before using Command Prompt, install SDB (Smart Development Bridge) and Tizen
Studio on your Windows PC.
To install apps using SDB:
- Ensure the app's TPK file is in the same location as SDB.
- Inside the SDB folder, right-click and choose "Open
In Terminal."
- Ensure your computer and TV are on the same local network.
- Enter the IPv4 address in the "sdb connect"
field and press Enter.
- Once connected, entering "sdb devices" will
display your TV.
- If displayed, type "sdb install <file
name.tpk>" and press Enter.
- Wait for installation completion.
- Check your TV to confirm successful app installation.
Installing Third-Party Apps on Samsung Smart TV via External Storage
You can also use properly formatted external storage (USB or
hard drive) to add TPK files to your Samsung TV. This involves two steps:
adding the TPK file to the storage device and then installing it on the TV.
1. Adding a Third-Party TPK File to External Storage
Ensure your USB drive is formatted as FAT, exFAT, or NTFS
(NTFS for Full HD TVs) to match your Samsung TV model. To add a third-party
app:
- Connect your computer to the storage device.
- Copy the TPK file to the storage drive.
- Disconnect the drive from the computer and connect it to
the TV.
- Use the TV remote's Input key to select the USB storage
device.
- You'll see the TPK file for installation.
2. Installing the Third-Party TPK on Your TV
Proceed to install the TPK file, accepting prompts and
warnings:
- After installation, use the Home key on the TV remote to
view the newly installed app.
Alternate Methods for Enjoying Third-Party Apps on Samsung
Smart TV While installing Google Play Store on a Samsung TV is ineffective and
potentially risky, other options exist. For older Samsung TVs lacking app
features, consider purchasing a Roku or Fire TV Stick. Both bring apps and
Smart TV features. The Fire TV Stick, particularly for Alexa and Amazon
services users, offers a great experience akin to Roku.
Devices with HDMI connectors, like Chromecast, are
compatible with Samsung TVs, allowing content casting from third-party apps.
However, installing apps directly from the app store is
still advised. Remember that proper TPK selection is essential for security. If
you encounter issues, seek help from Samsung support.
In Conclusion
Installing third-party apps might seem daunting to typical
TV viewers unfamiliar with technical terminology. Choosing trusted TPK files is
vital for device safety. This guide aims to simplify installing third-party
apps on Samsung Smart TVs. If assistance is needed, contact Samsung support for
guidance. Remember, even without technical expertise, you can enhance your
Samsung TV experience through third-party apps.
