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How-To Guides Updated Aug 23, 2026 2 min read Chriss Rakoot

How to Install and Run Android Apps on a Chromebook

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Quick Answer

Go to Settings > Apps > Google Play Store and click Turn on. Once enabled, the Play Store appears in your launcher just like on a phone — sign in and install apps normally.

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How to Set Up Android Apps

Step 1: Confirm your Chromebook supports it

Not every Chromebook can run Android apps. Search “Google Play Store” in Settings — if it isn’t listed at all, your model doesn’t support the Play Store.

Step 2: Enable the Play Store

In Settings > Apps, click Turn on next to Google Play Store, accept the terms, and sign in with your Google account when prompted.

Step 3: Install apps

Open the Play Store from your launcher and install apps the same way you would on a phone. Most install and run fine, though some are built only for phone screens and may not resize well on a laptop display.

Step 4: Manage permissions

Android apps request permissions like camera, microphone, or location separately from Chrome apps. Review and adjust these anytime in Settings > Apps > [App name] > Permissions.

Step 5: Update and uninstall

Android apps update automatically through the Play Store like on a phone. To remove one, right-click its icon in the launcher and select Uninstall.

Still Not Working?

If the Play Store option doesn’t appear, check that you’re not signed in as a guest — Android apps aren’t available in Guest Mode. If apps install but crash or won’t open, make sure you have enough free storage; see our guide on Chromebook RAM and storage limits. For apps that need offline access, our guide on installing Linux covers the alternative container-based approach for software the Play Store doesn’t offer.

FAQ

Why isn’t the Play Store available on my Chromebook?

Older or budget models released before Android app support became standard, and education-managed devices with restrictions, may not offer it at all.

Do Android apps work well on a laptop screen?

Most productivity and media apps adapt fine. Games and apps designed strictly for phone screens can look stretched or run in a small fixed window.

Can I use a mouse and keyboard with Android apps?

Yes, ChromeOS translates trackpad clicks and keyboard input into touch and typing events automatically, so most apps work without a touchscreen.

Chriss Rakoot

Chriss Rakoot writes and maintains the repair guides on ChromebookFixes. He trained as an engineer, specialized in IT and computer-systems maintenance, and worked for years as an in-person trainer in that field before moving his teaching online. Guides are reviewed and updated when ChromeOS changes.

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