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Installing an APK takes less than a minute once the right switch is on. Most of the time goes into finding that switch, because every phone brand puts it somewhere slightly different, and some brands add their own blockers on top of Android's. This guide covers the common Indian phone brands one by one.
Quick install (if you have done this before)
- Download the APK from the official page (button below) and wait for it to finish.
- Tap the downloaded file in Chrome's download bar or in Files > Downloads.
- When asked, allow "Install unknown apps" for Chrome or Files, then press back.
- Tap Install. Let Play Protect finish its scan.
- Tap Open. Then turn "Install unknown apps" off again.
How Android decides whether to install an APK
Understanding this saves a lot of frustration. When you tap an APK, three separate checks run in order:
- Source permission. Since Android 8, each app that can open an APK (Chrome, Files, WhatsApp, a file manager) needs its own permission to install apps (Android's developer guide to installing apps from unknown sources explains this). If the app you used to open the file does not have it, Android stops and offers a Settings shortcut.
- Brand security layer. Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo and some others add their own protection. These can block sideloading completely until you switch them off.
- Play Protect scan. On phones with Google services, Google Play Protect scans the file. It may allow it, warn you or block it.
If the install fails, work out which of these three stopped it. The error message usually tells you.
Samsung (One UI)
Allow the install source
Settings > Apps > tap the three-dot menu (top right) > Special access > Install unknown apps > choose Chrome or My Files > switch on Allow from this source.
Check Auto Blocker
Newer Samsung phones (One UI 6 and later) have a feature called Auto Blocker. When it is on, apps from unauthorised sources cannot be installed at all, and you will not even see the "unknown apps" prompt.
To check: Settings > Security and privacy > Auto Blocker. If it is on and you choose to install the APK, turn it off, install, and then turn it back on. Auto Blocker also protects against malicious USB commands and message attachments, so do not leave it off.
Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco (HyperOS and MIUI)
Allow the install source
Settings > Privacy protection (or Apps on older MIUI) > Special permissions > Install unknown apps > choose Chrome or File Manager > switch on.
Deal with the security scan
Xiaomi phones run their own scan after Play Protect. It may show a warning with a countdown before the Install button becomes active. A general "unknown source" warning is normal. If it names a virus, cancel.
Some HyperOS versions also include an enhanced protection mode that blocks installs from outside the app store. If the install button stays grey, look in the Security app > settings for a protection or installation restriction, and re-enable it after installing.
Vivo and iQOO (Funtouch OS and OriginOS)
Settings > Security & privacy (or Security) > More security settings > Install unknown apps > choose your browser or file manager > switch on.
Vivo's own installer may ask you to sign in to a Vivo account or confirm a password before installing apps from outside its store. That is Vivo's check, not the game's. Use your phone's lock screen password if asked.
Oppo, Realme and OnePlus (ColorOS and OxygenOS)
Settings > Apps > Special app access > Install unknown apps > choose the app > switch on.
Some ColorOS versions show an "Install via App Market?" or "Security check" screen. Choose to continue installing, and decline any offer to install a different app from the store instead.
Motorola, Nokia, Pixel and other stock Android phones
Settings > Apps > Special app access > Install unknown apps > choose Chrome or Files > Allow from this source.
Android 7 and older
Older versions have one switch for the whole phone. Settings > Security > Unknown sources > on. Install the APK, then switch it off again straight away, because on these versions it applies to every app.
Installing from a PC over USB
If your phone's browser keeps failing to download the file, you can download it on a computer and transfer it.
- Download the APK on the PC from the official page.
- Connect the phone by USB. On the phone, choose File transfer in the USB notification.
- Copy the APK into the phone's Download folder.
- On the phone, open Files > Downloads and tap the APK. Allow "Install unknown apps" for Files if asked.
Advanced users with Android's developer tools can also run adb install followed by the file name from the PC. That skips the phone's file manager but not Play Protect.
First launch checklist
- Let it download game data. The first launch downloads extra resources. Stay on Wi-Fi and keep the screen on.
- Refuse unnecessary permissions. A card game needs internet access, and may ask for notifications. It does not need SMS, contacts, accessibility, or "display over other apps".
- Link your account. Guest accounts are usually stored on the phone only. Link a phone number in settings so you do not lose progress.
- Turn the install permission off. Go back to "Install unknown apps" and switch off the app you used.
Uninstalling cleanly
Long-press the app icon > App info > Uninstall. Then open Files > Downloads and delete the APK file. If you want to reinstall later, download a fresh copy from the official page rather than keeping an old file.
Frequently asked questions
Why don't I see the "Install unknown apps" prompt?
On Samsung phones, Auto Blocker may be on. On Xiaomi phones, a protection mode may be blocking installs. Check the brand-specific sections above. Also make sure you are tapping an .apk file, not a .zip.
Is it safe to turn off Samsung Auto Blocker?
It is reasonable to turn it off for a single install you trust, as long as you turn it back on immediately afterwards. Auto Blocker also protects against malicious attachments and USB attacks.
Can I install the APK from WhatsApp?
You can, but you should not. Files forwarded in chats may be modified along the way. Download from the official page instead.
The Install button is greyed out. What should I do?
Another app may be drawing over the screen, such as a screen filter, bubble chat or screen recorder. Close those apps and try again. On Xiaomi phones, wait for the security scan countdown to finish.
Do I need to root my phone?
No. The APK installs on a normal, unrooted phone. Any guide that tells you to root your phone for this game is giving bad advice.
How long does installation take?
Under a minute to install, plus a minute or two for the first launch to download game data on a good connection.