From 7d6880e24b45c0c47da2d8cfd86761a8b055f2c6 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Thu, 8 Jan 2026 16:24:47 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 01/18] Update install-android.md: Complement for #1107 Make the "Installation notes" and its sub-sections visible in the menu bar --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 10 +++++----- 1 file changed, 5 insertions(+), 5 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index d218668c38..1dad26c100 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -31,19 +31,19 @@ RetroArch is available on the Google Play Store, but has not been updated for ye A more detailed difference between the Play Store versions can be found in [this libretro blog post](https://www.libretro.com/index.php/retroarch-android-new-versions-for-play-store-please-read/). -# Installation notes +## Installation notes -## Side-loading +### Side-loading * Android may tell you that `the app doesn’t have permission to install APKs`. Click the available `Settings` button in that prompt. * In the next menu, turn on the toggle allowing the app install APKs. * `Hit the back button` to return to your installation. -## Allowing APK installations blocked by Google Play Protect +### Allowing APK installations blocked by Google Play Protect To install RetroArch from non-Google Play sources (F-Droid, retroarch.com, etc), ensure Google Play Protect either approves it or disable the service entirely. -### Method 1: "Install anyway" in Google Play Protect +#### Method 1: "Install anyway" in Google Play Protect ![google-play-protect_-_install-anyway-1.png](../image/guides/google-play-protect_-_install-anyway-1.png) @@ -51,7 +51,7 @@ To install RetroArch from non-Google Play sources (F-Droid, retroarch.com, etc), * When you select “Install anyway”, Google Play Protect will ask you to authenticate your identity. For security reasons, this step cannot be captured in a screenshot, which is why it's described here instead. If Play Protect still fails to install the app even after you’ve entered the correct password, you’ll need to disable Google Play Protect. For instructions, see [Method 2: Disable Google Play Protect](#method-2-disable-google-play-protect). -### Method 2: Disable Google Play Protect +#### Method 2: Disable Google Play Protect If Google Play Protect still blocks the app installation even after you entered the correct password in Method 1 (a common issue on older Android versions), you'll need to temporarily disable Play Protect to proceed. From ee02ac8c5e4b81aa77dac2c64ba3e67c72e63a03 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 00:24:59 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 02/18] Update install-android.md DeGoogle notices --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 19 +++++++++++-------- 1 file changed, 11 insertions(+), 8 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index 1dad26c100..5c82f4535f 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -31,6 +31,8 @@ RetroArch is available on the Google Play Store, but has not been updated for ye A more detailed difference between the Play Store versions can be found in [this libretro blog post](https://www.libretro.com/index.php/retroarch-android-new-versions-for-play-store-please-read/). +DeGoogle notice: Google Play requires sign-in with a Google account. Aurora Store and Yalp Store offer free alternatives, enabling anonymous downloads and updates from Google Play servers without a Google account. + ## Installation notes ### Side-loading @@ -49,17 +51,18 @@ To install RetroArch from non-Google Play sources (F-Droid, retroarch.com, etc), ![google-play-protect_-_install-anyway-2.png](../image/guides/google-play-protect_-_install-anyway-2.png) -* When you select “Install anyway”, Google Play Protect will ask you to authenticate your identity. For security reasons, this step cannot be captured in a screenshot, which is why it's described here instead. If Play Protect still fails to install the app even after you’ve entered the correct password, you’ll need to disable Google Play Protect. For instructions, see [Method 2: Disable Google Play Protect](#method-2-disable-google-play-protect). +When you select “Install anyway”, Google Play Protect prompts for identity authentication (password or fingerprint). For security reasons, this step cannot be screenshotted, so it's described textually here. This method requires no Google account—unlike [disabling Google Play Protect](#method-2-disable-google-play-protect), needed if authentication still fails after entering the correct password. #### Method 2: Disable Google Play Protect -If Google Play Protect still blocks the app installation even after you entered the correct password in Method 1 (a common issue on older Android versions), you'll need to temporarily disable Play Protect to proceed. +If Google Play Protect still blocks the app installation even after you entered the correct password in Method 1 (a common issue on older Android versions), you'll need to disable Play Protect to proceed. The downside of this method is that it **requires** a Google account to sign in to the Google Play Store. -Disable Google Play Protect: -* Open the Play Store app first -* Tap your profile icon -* Select Play Protect -* Tap the gear icon in settings -* Toggle off "Scan apps with Play Protect" +* Create a Google account if you don’t already have one. +* Open the Google Play Store app +* Click on the "Sign in" button and sign in with your Google account. +* Tap your profile icon. +* Select Play Protect. +* Tap the gear icon (Settings). +* Toggle off "Scan apps with Play Protect". Once disabled, install the APK — Play Protect will no longer interfere with the process. From c508bd99ce98e504f387537107d31dae4f13ba9f Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 00:30:13 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 03/18] Update install-android.md Removed Yalp Store, not maintained --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index 5c82f4535f..48e44794d7 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ RetroArch is available on the Google Play Store, but has not been updated for ye A more detailed difference between the Play Store versions can be found in [this libretro blog post](https://www.libretro.com/index.php/retroarch-android-new-versions-for-play-store-please-read/). -DeGoogle notice: Google Play requires sign-in with a Google account. Aurora Store and Yalp Store offer free alternatives, enabling anonymous downloads and updates from Google Play servers without a Google account. +DeGoogle notice: Google Play requires sign-in with a Google account. Aurora Store offers a free alternative, enabling anonymous downloads and updates from Google Play servers without a Google account. ## Installation notes From e31d54fb58918f4a1e0b07f915c89cc61b3f8e89 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 00:35:10 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 04/18] Update install-android.md https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.aurora.store/ --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index 48e44794d7..8589f9645f 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ RetroArch is available on the Google Play Store, but has not been updated for ye A more detailed difference between the Play Store versions can be found in [this libretro blog post](https://www.libretro.com/index.php/retroarch-android-new-versions-for-play-store-please-read/). -DeGoogle notice: Google Play requires sign-in with a Google account. Aurora Store offers a free alternative, enabling anonymous downloads and updates from Google Play servers without a Google account. +DeGoogle notice: Google Play requires sign-in with a Google account. Aurora Store, avalible from the [F-droid](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.aurora.store/) repository, offers a free alternative enabling anonymous downloads and updates from Google Play servers without a Google account. ## Installation notes From 24b1bc1b0232a68e3fadca1210cf14cb6bd126f0 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 01:09:22 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 05/18] Update install-android.md Added "Installation via Obtainium" section --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 18 +++++++++++++----- 1 file changed, 13 insertions(+), 5 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index 8589f9645f..16d23536c3 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -3,25 +3,33 @@ ## Non-Google Play sources ### Installation via Side-loading -Side-loading means installing manually downloaded APK files on Android (outside official stores).
+Side-loading involves installing APK files on Android devices from sources outside official app stores. These APKs can be obtained manually or automatically via apps like Obtainium. You must follow the [installation notes](#installation-notes) for this process. #### From RetroArch.com Downloads + +#### Installation via Obtainium +* Install Obtainium: The most recent stable release can be found [in its F-Droid repository]([https://f-droid.org/packages/com.retroarch/](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/dev.imranr.obtainium.fdroid/)) +* Visit https://apps.obtainium.imranr.dev/ + * Search for "RetroArch" + * Click on the "Add to Obtainium" link. + +##### Manual Downloads ___ 1. Visit the retroarch.com [Downloads page](https://www.retroarch.com/?page=platforms) and select **Download Stable** or **Download Nightly**. 2. Open the downloaded APK (via a file manager if your browser does not prompt you when the download is completed). 3. Select Install. -##### From Buildbot Archives +###### From Buildbot Archives ___ All [stable](https://buildbot.libretro.com/stable/{{ unit.stable }}/android/) and [nightly](https://buildbot.libretro.com/nightly/android/) bundles are available via BuildBot If you need a specific architecture or build for testing. Builds are named with an architecture suffix: `aarch64` is a 64-bit build, `ra32` is a 32-bit build, and no suffix is a universal build that opts for 64-bit if your system supports it. > 32-bit support on Android is slowly being phased out by the industry, but these builds remain available for older devices or specific use cases. ### Installation via F-Droid ___ -RetroArch's most recent stable release can be found [in the F-Droid repository](https://f-droid.org/packages/com.retroarch/) for easier automatic updating. +RetroArch's most recent stable release can be found [in its F-Droid repository](https://f-droid.org/packages/com.retroarch/) for easier automatic updating. -### (NOT RECOMMENDED) Installation via Google Play +### (NOT RECOMMENDED) Installation via Google Play servers ___ RetroArch is available on the Google Play Store, but has not been updated for years due to Play Store policy changes. You may choose to use this older version, but it is not recommended. @@ -31,7 +39,7 @@ RetroArch is available on the Google Play Store, but has not been updated for ye A more detailed difference between the Play Store versions can be found in [this libretro blog post](https://www.libretro.com/index.php/retroarch-android-new-versions-for-play-store-please-read/). -DeGoogle notice: Google Play requires sign-in with a Google account. Aurora Store, avalible from the [F-droid](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.aurora.store/) repository, offers a free alternative enabling anonymous downloads and updates from Google Play servers without a Google account. +DeGoogle notice: Google Play requires sign-in with a Google account. Aurora Store, avalible from its [F-droid](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.aurora.store/) repository, offers a free alternative enabling anonymous downloads and updates from Google Play servers without a Google account. ## Installation notes From 11cbdca896154ce8a4084d37baac975fb93b5e22 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 01:53:13 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 06/18] Update install-android.md The F-Droid release is incomplete --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 10 +++++++--- 1 file changed, 7 insertions(+), 3 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index 16d23536c3..cb8adfa3cf 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -8,7 +8,9 @@ You must follow the [installation notes](#installation-notes) for this process. #### From RetroArch.com Downloads -#### Installation via Obtainium +#### Installation via Obtainium (recommended) +"Obtainium allows you to install and update apps directly from their releases pages, and receive notifications when new releases are made available." - Obtainium + * Install Obtainium: The most recent stable release can be found [in its F-Droid repository]([https://f-droid.org/packages/com.retroarch/](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/dev.imranr.obtainium.fdroid/)) * Visit https://apps.obtainium.imranr.dev/ * Search for "RetroArch" @@ -25,11 +27,13 @@ ___ All [stable](https://buildbot.libretro.com/stable/{{ unit.stable }}/android/) and [nightly](https://buildbot.libretro.com/nightly/android/) bundles are available via BuildBot If you need a specific architecture or build for testing. Builds are named with an architecture suffix: `aarch64` is a 64-bit build, `ra32` is a 32-bit build, and no suffix is a universal build that opts for 64-bit if your system supports it. > 32-bit support on Android is slowly being phased out by the industry, but these builds remain available for older devices or specific use cases. -### Installation via F-Droid +### Installation via F-Droid (incomplete) ___ RetroArch's most recent stable release can be found [in its F-Droid repository](https://f-droid.org/packages/com.retroarch/) for easier automatic updating. -### (NOT RECOMMENDED) Installation via Google Play servers +Note that the F-Droid package lacks many resources ([GitHub issue #16126](https://github.com/libretro/RetroArch/issues/16126); see also [F-Droid RFP #1933](https://gitlab.com/fdroid/rfp/-/issues/1933#note_1731005305)). Both issues are now closed but the resource problems persist. + +### Installation via Google Play servers (obsolete) ___ RetroArch is available on the Google Play Store, but has not been updated for years due to Play Store policy changes. You may choose to use this older version, but it is not recommended. From 4a89de418bb08b13660b0ba89f74424d47955990 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 04:02:19 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 07/18] Update install-android.md MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 Content-Transfer-Encoding: 8bit You don’t need to be signed in to adjust Play Protect settings --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 9 ++++----- 1 file changed, 4 insertions(+), 5 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index cb8adfa3cf..0daa0e2a90 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -67,13 +67,12 @@ When you select “Install anyway”, Google Play Protect prompts for identity a #### Method 2: Disable Google Play Protect -If Google Play Protect still blocks the app installation even after you entered the correct password in Method 1 (a common issue on older Android versions), you'll need to disable Play Protect to proceed. The downside of this method is that it **requires** a Google account to sign in to the Google Play Store. +If Google Play Protect still blocks the app installation even after you entered the correct password in Method 1 (a common issue on older Android versions), you'll need to disable Play Protect to proceed. -* Create a Google account if you don’t already have one. * Open the Google Play Store app -* Click on the "Sign in" button and sign in with your Google account. -* Tap your profile icon. -* Select Play Protect. +* Tap the hamburger button located in the top right. + * You don’t need to be signed in to adjust Play Protect settings. But if you’re signed in to a Google account, this icon will show the first letter of your name (for example, “F” for “Foo”). +* Select "Play Protect". * Tap the gear icon (Settings). * Toggle off "Scan apps with Play Protect". From bd24f8b6298fd608793dc176df1df48099436012 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 04:03:45 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 08/18] Update install-android.md wording --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index 0daa0e2a90..c397ce1a2e 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -71,7 +71,7 @@ If Google Play Protect still blocks the app installation even after you entered * Open the Google Play Store app * Tap the hamburger button located in the top right. - * You don’t need to be signed in to adjust Play Protect settings. But if you’re signed in to a Google account, this icon will show the first letter of your name (for example, “F” for “Foo”). + * You don’t need to be signed in to adjust Play Protect settings. But if you’re signed in to a Google account, An icon will show the first letter of your name (for example, “F” for “Foo”) instead of a hamburger button. * Select "Play Protect". * Tap the gear icon (Settings). * Toggle off "Scan apps with Play Protect". From dd301264723af666619c2a593418bf45fde3ac37 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 04:12:41 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 09/18] Update install-android.md Wording --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 4 ++-- 1 file changed, 2 insertions(+), 2 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index c397ce1a2e..f31fa7479b 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -70,9 +70,9 @@ When you select “Install anyway”, Google Play Protect prompts for identity a If Google Play Protect still blocks the app installation even after you entered the correct password in Method 1 (a common issue on older Android versions), you'll need to disable Play Protect to proceed. * Open the Google Play Store app -* Tap the hamburger button located in the top right. +* Tap the menu icon in the top right corner. * You don’t need to be signed in to adjust Play Protect settings. But if you’re signed in to a Google account, An icon will show the first letter of your name (for example, “F” for “Foo”) instead of a hamburger button. -* Select "Play Protect". +* Tap "Play Protect". * Tap the gear icon (Settings). * Toggle off "Scan apps with Play Protect". From 2f5eccce281aa9429a02a621752ca05703c6c332 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 04:19:58 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 10/18] Update install-android.md improve "sideloading" text --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 8 ++++---- 1 file changed, 4 insertions(+), 4 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index f31fa7479b..4ca72325fd 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -2,8 +2,8 @@ ## Non-Google Play sources -### Installation via Side-loading -Side-loading involves installing APK files on Android devices from sources outside official app stores. These APKs can be obtained manually or automatically via apps like Obtainium. +### Installation via Sideloading +When referring to Android apps, "sideloading" involves installing APK files on Android devices from sources outside official app stores. These APKs can be obtained manually or automatically via apps like Obtainium. You must follow the [installation notes](#installation-notes) for this process. #### From RetroArch.com Downloads @@ -47,7 +47,7 @@ DeGoogle notice: Google Play requires sign-in with a Google account. Aurora Stor ## Installation notes -### Side-loading +### Sideloading * Android may tell you that `the app doesn’t have permission to install APKs`. Click the available `Settings` button in that prompt. * In the next menu, turn on the toggle allowing the app install APKs. @@ -69,7 +69,7 @@ When you select “Install anyway”, Google Play Protect prompts for identity a If Google Play Protect still blocks the app installation even after you entered the correct password in Method 1 (a common issue on older Android versions), you'll need to disable Play Protect to proceed. -* Open the Google Play Store app +* Open the Google Play Store app. * Tap the menu icon in the top right corner. * You don’t need to be signed in to adjust Play Protect settings. But if you’re signed in to a Google account, An icon will show the first letter of your name (for example, “F” for “Foo”) instead of a hamburger button. * Tap "Play Protect". From 866450ca8790617f7b19ea9534e939fa3094c4c8 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 04:58:48 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 11/18] Update install-android.md Install unknown apps --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 16 ++++++++++------ 1 file changed, 10 insertions(+), 6 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index 4ca72325fd..b087ad8e14 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -4,7 +4,8 @@ ### Installation via Sideloading When referring to Android apps, "sideloading" involves installing APK files on Android devices from sources outside official app stores. These APKs can be obtained manually or automatically via apps like Obtainium. -You must follow the [installation notes](#installation-notes) for this process. + +If Play Protect warnings appear on Android, follow the installation notes for [allowing APK installations blocked by Google Play Protect](#allowing-apk-installations-blocked-by-google-play-protect). #### From RetroArch.com Downloads @@ -49,15 +50,18 @@ DeGoogle notice: Google Play requires sign-in with a Google account. Aurora Stor ### Sideloading -* Android may tell you that `the app doesn’t have permission to install APKs`. Click the available `Settings` button in that prompt. -* In the next menu, turn on the toggle allowing the app install APKs. +#### Install unknown apps + +Android may prompt `For your security, your phone currently isn't allowed to install unknonw apps from this source. You can change this in Settings`. +* Click the available `Settings` button in that prompt. +* In the `Install unknown apps` menu, toggle on `Allow from this source` to permit the app to install APKs. * `Hit the back button` to return to your installation. -### Allowing APK installations blocked by Google Play Protect +#### Allowing APK installations blocked by Google Play Protect To install RetroArch from non-Google Play sources (F-Droid, retroarch.com, etc), ensure Google Play Protect either approves it or disable the service entirely. -#### Method 1: "Install anyway" in Google Play Protect +##### Method 1: "Install anyway" in Google Play Protect ![google-play-protect_-_install-anyway-1.png](../image/guides/google-play-protect_-_install-anyway-1.png) @@ -65,7 +69,7 @@ To install RetroArch from non-Google Play sources (F-Droid, retroarch.com, etc), When you select “Install anyway”, Google Play Protect prompts for identity authentication (password or fingerprint). For security reasons, this step cannot be screenshotted, so it's described textually here. This method requires no Google account—unlike [disabling Google Play Protect](#method-2-disable-google-play-protect), needed if authentication still fails after entering the correct password. -#### Method 2: Disable Google Play Protect +##### Method 2: Disable Google Play Protect If Google Play Protect still blocks the app installation even after you entered the correct password in Method 1 (a common issue on older Android versions), you'll need to disable Play Protect to proceed. From c2ca06023625e35225d5f106009b1a4480536d3a Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 05:54:03 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 12/18] Update install-android.md Improved phrasing for sideloading steps --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 12 ++++++++---- 1 file changed, 8 insertions(+), 4 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index b087ad8e14..90e2289f46 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -5,7 +5,9 @@ ### Installation via Sideloading When referring to Android apps, "sideloading" involves installing APK files on Android devices from sources outside official app stores. These APKs can be obtained manually or automatically via apps like Obtainium. -If Play Protect warnings appear on Android, follow the installation notes for [allowing APK installations blocked by Google Play Protect](#allowing-apk-installations-blocked-by-google-play-protect). +To sideload successfully, complete these two steps: +* The first time you attempt to install an APK via an app (e.g. via any file manager, or Obtainium), enable the [install unknown apps](#install-unknown-apps) permission for it. +* If Play Protect warnings appear on Android, follow the installation notes for [allowing APK installations blocked by Google Play Protect](#allowing-apk-installations-blocked-by-google-play-protect). #### From RetroArch.com Downloads @@ -52,7 +54,7 @@ DeGoogle notice: Google Play requires sign-in with a Google account. Aurora Stor #### Install unknown apps -Android may prompt `For your security, your phone currently isn't allowed to install unknonw apps from this source. You can change this in Settings`. +The first time you attempt to install an APK via an app (e.g. via any file manager, or Obtainium), Android displays a prompt: `For your security, your phone currently isn't allowed to install unknonw apps from this source. You can change this in Settings`. * Click the available `Settings` button in that prompt. * In the `Install unknown apps` menu, toggle on `Allow from this source` to permit the app to install APKs. * `Hit the back button` to return to your installation. @@ -63,6 +65,8 @@ To install RetroArch from non-Google Play sources (F-Droid, retroarch.com, etc), ##### Method 1: "Install anyway" in Google Play Protect +This procedure must be repeated each time you sideload an app: + ![google-play-protect_-_install-anyway-1.png](../image/guides/google-play-protect_-_install-anyway-1.png) ![google-play-protect_-_install-anyway-2.png](../image/guides/google-play-protect_-_install-anyway-2.png) @@ -79,5 +83,5 @@ If Google Play Protect still blocks the app installation even after you entered * Tap "Play Protect". * Tap the gear icon (Settings). * Toggle off "Scan apps with Play Protect". - -Once disabled, install the APK — Play Protect will no longer interfere with the process. +* Install the APK — Play Protect will no longer interfere with the process. +* Android may prompt you to enable Play Protect each time you sideload an APK; always select "No" to maintain this habit. From d954002d05fba0cfc81aa2492c808c72aee8471a Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 06:23:01 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 13/18] Update install-android.md The step to disable Play Protection is complex and should be read carefully to ensure success on all Android devices. --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 6 +++--- 1 file changed, 3 insertions(+), 3 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index 90e2289f46..2012f48236 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -5,9 +5,9 @@ ### Installation via Sideloading When referring to Android apps, "sideloading" involves installing APK files on Android devices from sources outside official app stores. These APKs can be obtained manually or automatically via apps like Obtainium. -To sideload successfully, complete these two steps: -* The first time you attempt to install an APK via an app (e.g. via any file manager, or Obtainium), enable the [install unknown apps](#install-unknown-apps) permission for it. -* If Play Protect warnings appear on Android, follow the installation notes for [allowing APK installations blocked by Google Play Protect](#allowing-apk-installations-blocked-by-google-play-protect). +To sideload successfully: +* The first time you attempt to install an APK via an app (e.g. via any file manager, or Obtainium), enable the [install unknown apps](#install-unknown-apps) permission for it. This step is straightforward, and most smartphone users can complete it without consulting the detailed instructions. +* If Play Protect warnings appear on Android, follow the installation notes for [allowing APK installations blocked by Google Play Protect](#allowing-apk-installations-blocked-by-google-play-protect). This step is more complex and should be read carefully to ensure success on all Android devices. #### From RetroArch.com Downloads From 00b390aeeaa7e76442e9b760b34e0cae63dba28d Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 06:23:54 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 14/18] Update install-android.md wording --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index 2012f48236..23ff56ce4d 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ When referring to Android apps, "sideloading" involves installing APK files on Android devices from sources outside official app stores. These APKs can be obtained manually or automatically via apps like Obtainium. To sideload successfully: -* The first time you attempt to install an APK via an app (e.g. via any file manager, or Obtainium), enable the [install unknown apps](#install-unknown-apps) permission for it. This step is straightforward, and most smartphone users can complete it without consulting the detailed instructions. +* The first time you attempt to install an APK via an app (e.g. via any file manager, or Obtainium), enable the [install unknown apps](#install-unknown-apps) permission for it. This step is straightforward, and most Android users can complete it without consulting the detailed instructions. * If Play Protect warnings appear on Android, follow the installation notes for [allowing APK installations blocked by Google Play Protect](#allowing-apk-installations-blocked-by-google-play-protect). This step is more complex and should be read carefully to ensure success on all Android devices. #### From RetroArch.com Downloads From 25b011e81d639d87a4de0abf2d9426d4e8fc016e Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2026 19:39:15 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 15/18] Update install-android.md Completed the Obtainium installation guide --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 20 ++++++++++++++------ 1 file changed, 14 insertions(+), 6 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index 23ff56ce4d..bb8f64ac5d 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ ## Non-Google Play sources ### Installation via Sideloading -When referring to Android apps, "sideloading" involves installing APK files on Android devices from sources outside official app stores. These APKs can be obtained manually or automatically via apps like Obtainium. +Sideloading Android apps involves installing APK files from sources outside official stores. Apps like Obtainium automate APK downloads for the latest versions, avoiding issues with manual methods such as lengthy repeated downloads/installations and missed updates. To sideload successfully: * The first time you attempt to install an APK via an app (e.g. via any file manager, or Obtainium), enable the [install unknown apps](#install-unknown-apps) permission for it. This step is straightforward, and most Android users can complete it without consulting the detailed instructions. @@ -14,10 +14,18 @@ To sideload successfully: #### Installation via Obtainium (recommended) "Obtainium allows you to install and update apps directly from their releases pages, and receive notifications when new releases are made available." - Obtainium -* Install Obtainium: The most recent stable release can be found [in its F-Droid repository]([https://f-droid.org/packages/com.retroarch/](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/dev.imranr.obtainium.fdroid/)) -* Visit https://apps.obtainium.imranr.dev/ - * Search for "RetroArch" - * Click on the "Add to Obtainium" link. +To install the latest stable RetroArch APK — whether 32-bit, AArch64, or Universal — from https://buildbot.libretro.com/stable/CURRENTVERSIONNUMBER/android/, follow these steps: + +* Install Obtainium + * Download the latest stable version from its [F-Droid repository](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/dev.imranr.obtainium.fdroid/) +* Add RetroArch to Obtainium + * Visit https://apps.obtainium.imranr.dev/. + * Search for "RetroArch". + * Select “Add to Obtainium” for either RetroArch (32-bit), RetroArch (AArch64), or RetroArch (Universal). +* Import and Install + * When the “Import app” prompt appears, tap **Continue**. +* Open the newly added RetroArch entry. +* Tap **Install** to download and install the app. ##### Manual Downloads ___ @@ -27,7 +35,7 @@ ___ ###### From Buildbot Archives ___ -All [stable](https://buildbot.libretro.com/stable/{{ unit.stable }}/android/) and [nightly](https://buildbot.libretro.com/nightly/android/) bundles are available via BuildBot If you need a specific architecture or build for testing. Builds are named with an architecture suffix: `aarch64` is a 64-bit build, `ra32` is a 32-bit build, and no suffix is a universal build that opts for 64-bit if your system supports it. +All [stable](https://buildbot.libretro.com/stable/CURRENTVERSIONNUMBER/android/) and [nightly](https://buildbot.libretro.com/nightly/android/) bundles are available via BuildBot If you need a specific architecture or build for testing. Builds are named with an architecture suffix: `aarch64` is a 64-bit build, `ra32` is a 32-bit build, and no suffix is a universal build that opts for 64-bit if your system supports it. > 32-bit support on Android is slowly being phased out by the industry, but these builds remain available for older devices or specific use cases. ### Installation via F-Droid (incomplete) From 6645dd8ab8fc597effdfc61262f42f8a3e96a866 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Sat, 10 Jan 2026 05:24:27 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 16/18] Update install-android.md wording --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 7 +++---- 1 file changed, 3 insertions(+), 4 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index bb8f64ac5d..22c6b1164d 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -16,8 +16,7 @@ To sideload successfully: To install the latest stable RetroArch APK — whether 32-bit, AArch64, or Universal — from https://buildbot.libretro.com/stable/CURRENTVERSIONNUMBER/android/, follow these steps: -* Install Obtainium - * Download the latest stable version from its [F-Droid repository](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/dev.imranr.obtainium.fdroid/) +* Install [Obtainium](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/dev.imranr.obtainium.fdroid/) from F-Droid. * Add RetroArch to Obtainium * Visit https://apps.obtainium.imranr.dev/. * Search for "RetroArch". @@ -40,7 +39,7 @@ All [stable](https://buildbot.libretro.com/stable/CURRENTVERSIONNUMBER/android/) ### Installation via F-Droid (incomplete) ___ -RetroArch's most recent stable release can be found [in its F-Droid repository](https://f-droid.org/packages/com.retroarch/) for easier automatic updating. +The F-Droid release of [RetroArch](https://f-droid.org/packages/com.retroarch/) offers the recent stable release can be found in F-Droid for easier automatic updating. Note that the F-Droid package lacks many resources ([GitHub issue #16126](https://github.com/libretro/RetroArch/issues/16126); see also [F-Droid RFP #1933](https://gitlab.com/fdroid/rfp/-/issues/1933#note_1731005305)). Both issues are now closed but the resource problems persist. @@ -54,7 +53,7 @@ RetroArch is available on the Google Play Store, but has not been updated for ye A more detailed difference between the Play Store versions can be found in [this libretro blog post](https://www.libretro.com/index.php/retroarch-android-new-versions-for-play-store-please-read/). -DeGoogle notice: Google Play requires sign-in with a Google account. Aurora Store, avalible from its [F-droid](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.aurora.store/) repository, offers a free alternative enabling anonymous downloads and updates from Google Play servers without a Google account. +DeGoogle notice: Google Play requires sign-in with a Google account. Aurora Store offers a free alternative enabling anonymous downloads and updates from Google Play servers without a Google account. [Aurora Store](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.aurora.store/) is avalible in F-Droid. ## Installation notes From b12cb9af830e5ecd3b6db25d8dd4e90863510e00 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Sat, 10 Jan 2026 12:30:23 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 17/18] Update install-android.md Added: "The only difference is that Obtainium automates this process and provides update notifications, helping users stay current and avoid reporting issues from outdated versions." --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 4 +++- 1 file changed, 3 insertions(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index 22c6b1164d..9638c21db0 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -14,7 +14,9 @@ To sideload successfully: #### Installation via Obtainium (recommended) "Obtainium allows you to install and update apps directly from their releases pages, and receive notifications when new releases are made available." - Obtainium -To install the latest stable RetroArch APK — whether 32-bit, AArch64, or Universal — from https://buildbot.libretro.com/stable/CURRENTVERSIONNUMBER/android/, follow these steps: +Obtainium installs the latest stable RetroArch APK — whether 32‑bit, AArch64, or Universal — directly from https://buildbot.libretro.com/stable/CURRENTVERSIONNUMBER/android/, the same source used for manual downloads. The only difference is that Obtainium automates this process and provides update notifications, helping users stay current and avoid reporting issues from outdated versions. + +To install RetroArch from Obtainium, follow these steps: * Install [Obtainium](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/dev.imranr.obtainium.fdroid/) from F-Droid. * Add RetroArch to Obtainium From 3be4868c6db9e4963f5a3bdf67b9a01c4fde87ec Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Hedlund Date: Sat, 10 Jan 2026 12:32:29 +0100 Subject: [PATCH 18/18] Update install-android.md MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8 Content-Transfer-Encoding: 8bit Added: "It’s also worth noting that Obtainium is Android TV–friendly, making it suitable for use across all Android devices" --- docs/guides/install-android.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/guides/install-android.md b/docs/guides/install-android.md index 9638c21db0..a68c5b9d6c 100644 --- a/docs/guides/install-android.md +++ b/docs/guides/install-android.md @@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ To sideload successfully: #### Installation via Obtainium (recommended) "Obtainium allows you to install and update apps directly from their releases pages, and receive notifications when new releases are made available." - Obtainium -Obtainium installs the latest stable RetroArch APK — whether 32‑bit, AArch64, or Universal — directly from https://buildbot.libretro.com/stable/CURRENTVERSIONNUMBER/android/, the same source used for manual downloads. The only difference is that Obtainium automates this process and provides update notifications, helping users stay current and avoid reporting issues from outdated versions. +Obtainium installs the latest stable RetroArch APK — whether 32‑bit, AArch64, or Universal — directly from https://buildbot.libretro.com/stable/CURRENTVERSIONNUMBER/android/, the same source used for manual downloads. The only difference is that Obtainium automates this process and provides update notifications, helping users stay current and avoid reporting issues from outdated versions. It’s also worth noting that Obtainium is Android TV–friendly, making it suitable for use across all Android devices. To install RetroArch from Obtainium, follow these steps: