App Not Installed As Package Appears To Be Invalid [Solved]

In this guide, we will show you various methods to fix the “App not installed as package appears to be invalid” error. When it comes to installing an app, the Play Store is usually the go-to choice. However, there are instances where you might need to explore other options. For example, if an app is geo-restricted and not available in your region, or if you want to install an older version of an app, you would have to sideload its APK from a trusted third-party site.

However, installing an app outside the Play Store may sometimes result in encountering an error or two. Many users have reported facing the “App not installed as package appears to be invalid” or “App not installed as app appears to be invalid” error. If you are also experiencing this issue, this guide will help you resolve it. Follow along for the fixes.

How to fix App Not Installed As Package Appears To Be Invalid

Fix 1: Using Android SDK Platform Tool

• Download the Android SDK Platform Tool on your PC and extract it.
• Download an older version of the app from a trusted source.
• Enable USB Debugging on your device.
• Connect your device to the PC via USB.
• Open the Command Prompt window, go to the platform-tools folder, and execute “adb devices” to ensure a successful connection.
• Execute “adb shell” to open the shell environment.
• Find the package name of the system app you want to install by executing “pm list packages.”
• Uninstall the app using “pm uninstall -k --user 0 packagename” (replace “packagename” with the actual package name) to uninstall the app.
• Reinstall the app using “pm install -r -d /data/local/tmp/appname.apk.” (replace “appname” with the actual app name) to reinstall the app.

Fix 2: Using the -d Parameter

• Download an earlier version of the app from a trusted source.
• Transfer the APK file to your device’s internal storage.
• Open the File Manager app and locate the APK file.
• Tap on the APK file to start the installation.
• If you encounter the error, don’t close the dialog.
• Rename the APK file by adding “.zip” at the end of the filename.
• Extract the ZIP file and look for the app’s APK file.
• Install the APK file.

Fix 3: Use a Different Source

• If the error occurs while sideloading from a specific source, try using a different source to download the APK file.

Fix 4: Verify Architecture

• Find out your device’s architecture.
• Download an APK file compatible with your device’s architecture.
• Install the downloaded APK file.

Fix 5: Install App Bundles

• Download and install the “Split APKs Installer (SAI)” app from the Play Store.
• Download the App Bundle file (with the .apks extension) of the app from a trusted source.
• Open the SAI app and install the APKs from the App Bundle.

Fix 6: Disable Google Play Protect

• Open the Play Store app.
• Go to Play Protect settings and disable “Scan apps with Play Protect.”

Fix 7: Delete Existing App Data

• Go to App settings and clear data/storage of the app.

Fix 8: Reset App Preferences

• Go to App settings and reset app preferences.

Fix 9: Downgrade App

• Uninstall the current version of the app.
• Download an older version of the app and install it.

Remember to proceed with caution when installing apps from third-party sources, and always ensure the source is reputable and trustworthy to avoid potential security risks. I hope these solutions help you resolve the issue! If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to ask.