In many cases you see your friends posting screenshots from streaming apps like Spotify –only for you to reach the Google PlayStore and not to find the app there. In some cases when you find the app, you are greeted by a message that tells you that you cannot use the app which means it’s not available in your country.
In this article, we’ll show you two ways to make it work using a VPN or by downloading an APK file. It should be noted that whilst VPNs and APKs can be very effective, they are not the answer to all your problems. You will find that some apps just aren’t compatible with your device – no matter what you do, it will never work. Furthermore, downloading and sideloading APKs can be dangerous if they come from sources that aren’t reputable, and using a VPN may be against the rules in your area. So, always proceed with caution.
Using a VPN
The internet-savvy among you are probably already thought of using a VPN to mask your location and possibly trick the Play Store. And indeed, this is one method you can use. You can as well register for a US-based PlayStore.
ALSO READ: How to change your Ugandan based Google PlayStore to a US based Store
There are a few VPN apps out there you can use, most people use different types of VPNs but we recommend one that can access region-locked apps and don’t mis use data and this is often true for paid VPN services like Tunnel Bear and Express VPN.
Download the APK
There is good and bad news: installing a non-compatible application on your smartphone is very simple, but it only works with free titles.
All you need to do is just download the APK app via APK Downloader, and copy the URL for the app from the Google Play Store. On your smartphone, the trick is to retrieve the URL by selecting the Share button on the Play Store and open Gmail. To summarize:
ALSO READ: Android APK file Explained!
1. Copy the app’s URL.
2. Paste the URL into the APK Downloader site.
3. Download the APK file.
You can always try to retrieve the APK file you want via APK Mirror. Not all apps will work properly with your device just because you tricked the Play Store into downloading them. It’s still possible that strange things will happen due to the difference in screen resolution or aspect ratio, or the app may not work at all.
What apps have you downloaded using these methods? How are you able to watch Amazon Prime, Hulu, Peacock, or Disney streaming whille in Uganda? Do you have any other tips to share? Let us know in the comments below.
