i3CONNECT Studio provides a streamlined interface for collaboration, but sometimes you may need to install specific applications not found in the i3Store. This article explains how to manually install Android Package (APK) files using a USB drive or remotely via i3CONNECT Cortex. These methods are useful for side-loading custom tools or legacy applications.
Before you start
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Ensure you have the .apk file downloaded to your computer.
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For remote installation, ensure your display is registered to i3CONNECT Cortex.
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ensure that you have a USB drive formatted to FAT32.
Option 1: Manual installation via USB
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Prepare your USB drive by copying the desired .apk file onto it from your computer.
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Open the File Manager (sometimes labeled "Finder" or "Files") from the i3CONNECT Studio home screen or app list.
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Navigate to your USB drive within the file manager and locate the APK file.
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Tap the APK file to begin the installation.
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Grant permission to install from unknown sources if prompted. If a "Settings" button appears, tap it, toggle the switch for the File Manager to On, and then press the back arrow to return to the installation.
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Select Install at the bottom of the prompt. Once the process is complete, you can choose to open the app immediately or find it later in your apps list.
Option 2: Remote installation via Cortex
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Log in to your i3CONNECT Cortex account.
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Navigate to the App Repository in the side menu.
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Upload the APK by clicking the "+" button. You can optionally assign it to a category for better organization.
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Select your device (or a group of devices) from the device list.
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Go to the Apps section at the bottom of the device details page.
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Find your uploaded app in the list (it will show as "Not installed") and select Install from the actions menu. The app will be pushed to the display automatically.
Troubleshooting
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Installation Blocked: If the display prevents installation even after toggling the file manager permission, you may need to enable "Unknown Sources" in the service menu. Contact the service team for more information: Get support under warranty
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App Not Visible: If the app installs successfully but doesn't appear on the home screen, check the All Apps section of i3CONNECT Studio.
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Compatibility Issues: Some apps require Google Play Services to function. If you are using a non-EDLA display (like older Elm or Aspen models), these apps may crash or fail to open. In these cases, look for alternative versions of the app that do not rely on Google services.
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Corrupt File: If you receive a "Parse Error," the APK file may be corrupted or incompatible with your version of Android. Try downloading the file again or checking for a version compatible with Android 13/14/15.