Sideload Launcher - Android TV for Android

Overview: what this utility does for Android TV

Sideload Launcher for Android TV is a free tool from Chainfire that helps you access apps the default TV launcher may hide. It functions as an alternative launcher that reveals installed APKs — including apps you sideload yourself — so you can open and use them on a TV or other Android TV-compatible device.

Why this is useful

Android TV is a streamlined version of Android designed for big screens and remote control navigation. That simplification means some sideloaded or non–TV-optimized apps don’t appear in the stock launcher. Sideload Launcher fills that gap by showing those overlooked apps in a simple, phone-like app drawer so you can try running them without altering the system launcher permanently.

Important features at a glance

• Drawer-style view that lists every installed app, including ones the default launcher hides.
• Ready to use immediately after installation; no extra configuration required.
• Can act as your primary launcher if you prefer to always see sideloaded apps.

Things to know before you try it

• Compatibility varies: an app that launches may not function correctly on a TV (controls, layout, or performance may be affected).
• It’s primarily a visibility/workaround tool, not a compatibility fixer; it won’t magically optimize phone-only apps for remote control.
• Use it as a quick way to test whether a sideloaded APK can run instead of letting the OS decide it should be hidden.

How to use it

1. Install the APK or download Sideload Launcher from a trusted source.
2. Launch Sideload Launcher and browse the drawer for the app you want to open.
3. Tap or select the app to run it; if it behaves poorly, consider uninstalling or trying a TV-optimized alternative.

Bottom line

If sideloaded applications aren’t appearing on your Android TV, Sideload Launcher is a fast, low-effort way to surface and test them. It doesn’t guarantee full functionality for every app, but it’s worth installing to determine whether a hidden app will run on your device.