Are you tired of being limited to the pre-installed apps on your Vizio Smart TV? Do you want to expand your entertainment options and access your favorite streaming platforms, but don’t know how to add apps that aren’t available in the official app store? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to add apps to your Vizio Smart TV that aren’t listed in the app store, so you can enjoy a truly personalized viewing experience.
What are the Requirements for Adding Apps to Vizio Smart TV?
Before you get started, it’s important to make sure your Vizio Smart TV meets the necessary requirements for adding third-party apps. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A Vizio Smart TV running VIA or VIA+ software: These are the only Vizio TV models that support the installation of third-party apps. To check which software your TV is running, go to the “Menu” tab and select “System.” If it says “VIA” or “VIA+,” you’re good to go. If it says “SmartCast,” you’ll need to upgrade your TV’s software before you can add apps.
- An active internet connection: You’ll need a stable internet connection to download and install apps on your Vizio Smart TV. If you’re experiencing issues with your internet connection, check with your service provider to troubleshoot the problem.
- A USB drive: You’ll need a USB drive to store and transfer the app file to your TV. Make sure the drive is formatted to FAT32 or NTFS and has enough free space to accommodate the app file. You’ll also need a computer to download the app file and transfer it to the USB drive.
How to Add Apps to Vizio Smart TV Not in App Store?
Now that you’ve checked the requirements, it’s time to start adding apps to your Vizio Smart TV. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Find the app file: The first step is to find the app file that you want to install on your Vizio Smart TV. There are several websites where you can download app files for free, such as APKPure or APKMirror. Just search for the app you want and click on the “Download” button to start the process. Keep in mind that some app files may not be available due to copyright or legal restrictions, so you may need to search for alternative sources.
- Transfer the app file to the USB drive: Once the app file has finished downloading, you’ll need to transfer it to the USB drive. To do this, plug the USB drive into your computer and copy the app file to it. Make sure to save it in the root folder of the drive, not in a subfolder.
- Connect the USB drive to your Vizio Smart TV: With the app file transferred to the USB drive, it’s time to connect it to your Vizio Smart TV. Insert the drive into one of the USB ports on the back or side of the TV and wait for it to recognize the drive. Depending on your TV model, you may need to use a USB adapter if the port is too small for the drive.
- Install the app: Once the USB drive is connected, go to the “Menu” tab and select “Apps.” You should see a list of available apps, including the one you just transferred. Select the app and press the “OK” button on your remote to start the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation and agree to any terms and conditions.
- Launch the app: After the installation is complete, you’ll be able to launch the app from the “Apps” menu or from the main menu. Just select the app and press the “OK” button to open it. You may need to sign in to your account or create a new account to access the app’s content.
Tips for Adding Apps to Vizio Smart TV
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when adding apps to your Vizio Smart TV:
- Check the app’s compatibility: Not all app files are compatible with Vizio Smart TVs, so it’s important to check the app’s compatibility before downloading it. Some apps may require specific hardware or software that your TV doesn’t support, or they may be designed for a different operating system. To avoid any issues, make sure to check the app’s system requirements and compatibility before downloading it.
- Update your TV’s software: If you’re having trouble adding apps to your Vizio Smart TV, it may be because you’re running an outdated version of the software. To fix this, go to the “Menu” tab and select “System.” If there’s a software update available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it. This will not only allow you to add new apps, but it will also improve the overall performance of your TV.
- Use a reliable source: It’s important to download app files from a reliable source to avoid any issues. Some websites may offer fake or malicious app files that can harm your TV or steal your personal information. To ensure the safety of your device and your data, make sure to download app files only from trusted websites like APKPure or APKMirror.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to add apps to your Vizio Smart TV that aren’t available in the official app store. This will allow you to customize your TV and access a wider range of entertainment options, making your viewing experience truly personalized. Just make sure to check the app’s compatibility, update your TV’s software, and use a reliable source when downloading app files. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy all your favorite apps on your Vizio Smart TV in no time!