TikTok is an app for creating and sharing short videos that combines elements of music, creativity, and social media. Since its global launch in 2018, it has quickly become one of the most popular apps in the world, with over 2.7 billion downloads as of December 2020 according to Sensor Tower.
However, some users want access to TikTok without going through official app stores like the App Store or Google Play. There are various reasons for this – some locations restrict access, people want to sideload the app, or they simply want to access TikTok content without an account.
In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of the different methods to use TikTok without the App Store or Play Store. We’ll look at sideloading the app on Android and iOS, using the web version, accessing content without an account, availability in restricted regions, and risks and tips for safe sideloading.
Getting TikTok on Android without the Play Store
For Android users, the easiest way to install TikTok is through the Google Play Store. However, in some cases, you may want to download the TikTok app without using the Play Store.
Here are two methods to get TikTok on your Android device without the Play Store:
Downloading the APK directly from TikTok
You can download the TikTok APK file directly from the TikTok website. Simply go to https://www.tiktok.com/download?hl=en on your Android device and tap on “Android” to download the latest APK.
Once downloaded, you can install the TikTok APK by enabling “Install from unknown sources” in your Android settings. Launch the downloaded APK file and follow the prompts to complete installation.
Using third-party APK download sites
There are many third-party websites that host APK files for Android apps, including TikTok. However, be cautious when downloading APKs from unknown sources, as some files may be modified or contain malware.
Reputable sites like APKMirror https://www.apkmirror.com/?post_type=app_release&searchtype=apk&s=TikTok offer the official TikTok APK for direct download.
As with the official APK, you’ll need to enable external app installations and launch the downloaded APK to install TikTok on your device.
Installing TikTok on iOS Devices without the App Store
For iOS users who want to install TikTok without going through the official App Store, there are a couple options:
One is to use third-party app stores like TutuApp and AppValley that provide hacked or modded versions of popular apps like TikTok. These third-party app stores allow sideloading apps onto iOS devices without needing access to the App Store.
Another option is to use a service like AltStore to sideload apps. AltStore allows you to install apps like TikTok as IPA files directly onto an iOS device. This bypasses the App Store restrictions while providing a more seamless user experience than other sideloading methods.
However, sideloading apps using unofficial sources does come with risks. The security of sideloaded apps cannot be guaranteed, so users should exercise caution when installing apps through third-party distributors.
The risks of sideloading apps:
One of the biggest risks of sideloading apps is the potential for malware or spyware. Unlike apps from official app stores, sideloaded apps do not go through rigorous security checks and can contain malicious code (https://www.bitdefender.com/blog/hotforsecurity/what-are-the-risks-of-sideloading-apps-on-your-smartphone/). This malicious code could steal personal data, track user activity, or take control of certain device functionalities without the user’s knowledge.
Another downside of sideloading is the lack of automatic updates. Apps from the official app stores are automatically updated to the latest version which usually includes important security patches. Sideloaded apps need to be manually updated, meaning vulnerabilities can persist for longer (https://www.redpoints.com/blog/risks-of-sideloading-apps/).
Lastly, sideloading apps often violates the terms of service from app stores and device manufacturers. This means sideloading could potentially void your device’s warranty or lead to your account being suspended or banned. While the risk of enforcement is generally low, it’s still an important consideration (https://insights.samsung.com/2021/07/14/what-are-the-risks-of-sideloaded-android-apps/).
Using TikTok web
One way to access TikTok without downloading the app is by using the TikTok website. You can visit TikTok.com on any web browser to watch videos and browse content.
The TikTok website provides a similar experience to the mobile app. You can scroll through the For You feed, search for content and creators, and watch videos. However, there are some limitations compared to the mobile app:
- You cannot create an account or log in on TikTok web, so you are limited to browsing as a guest.
- Some features like uploading videos, commenting, and live streaming are not available.
- The interface is not optimized for desktop, so the experience may feel a bit clunky.
Overall, TikTok web allows you to access and view content without downloading the app. But if you want access to all features, you’ll need to use the mobile app and create an account.
Accessing TikTok Content Without an Account
One way to view TikTok videos without having an account is to find compilations and highlights shared on other platforms like YouTube or Instagram. Many popular TikTok creators will repost their best videos on other sites to reach a wider audience. There are also numerous YouTube channels dedicated to curating and reposting viral TikTok videos in compiled formats.
For example, channels like SSSniperWolf and BestOfTikTok routinely gather the most popular and funny TikToks and share them in long compilation videos on YouTube. You can browse these compilations to catch up on viral TikTok trends and memes without needing an account. Just searching “TikTok compilation” or “Best TikToks” on YouTube will surface many multi-hour videos packed with curated TikTok content.
In addition, TikTok now allows users to embed videos on other sites and share direct links to videos. This means you may encounter standalone viral TikTok videos embedded on articles, blogs, social media posts, etc. Simply clicking and watching the embedded video allows you to view the TikTok content without an account.
While this approach means you won’t have access to every TikTok video, it lets you view many of the most popular and viral moments from TikTok shared in compilation form on other platforms. If your main goal is just casual viewing of trending TikTok content, this can serve as an effective account-free solution.
TikTok Availability in Restricted Regions
Several countries around the world have instituted bans or restrictions on TikTok access within their borders. This includes large countries like India (Pop. 1.4 billion) [1], Pakistan (Pop. 240 million) and Afghanistan (Pop. 39 million) as well as smaller countries like Taiwan (Pop. 23 million) and Denmark (Pop. 5.9 million) [2].
The reasons for bans vary, but usually relate to data privacy concerns, objectionable content, or political tensions. While users in these regions won’t find TikTok in their country’s app stores, there are workarounds:
Using a VPN – Virtual Private Networks can bypass geographic restrictions by masking your IP address. Connecting to a server in an unrestricted country allows you to download and use TikTok despite bans. However, free VPNs often have security risks, may log your data, show ads, or have slow speeds.
Accessing TikTok’s web version – TikTok’s website tiktok.com offers pared down access without needing the app. However, users cannot post videos, only view them.
While VPNs provide a handy workaround, proceed with caution. Paid VPNs from reputable providers offer better security and speeds. Also be aware that some countries criminalize VPN use to bypass restrictions.
The pros and cons of sideloading TikTok
When considering whether or not to sideload TikTok, it’s important to weigh the convenience and access against potential security risks.1 One of the biggest pros of sideloading TikTok is gaining access to the app without needing to go through official app stores like the Play Store or App Store. This can be especially beneficial for users in countries where TikTok is restricted or banned.
However, there are notable downsides to sideloading as well. One major security concern is that sideloaded apps do not receive automatic updates, which means they can miss out on critical bug fixes and security patches.2 This leaves devices more vulnerable to potential exploits. Additionally, sideloaded apps bypass the app review processes of official stores, increasing the risk of installing malware or unstable apps.
Ultimately, the choice depends on an individual’s priorities and tolerance for risk. For those seeking access in restricted regions, sideloading may provide the necessary workaround. But for general usage, especially on personal devices, most experts recommend sticking to official app stores for security and stability.
Expert tips for safe app sideloading
When sideloading apps, it’s important to take precautions to keep your device and data safe. Here are some expert tips:
Stick to reputable sources. Only download apps from trustworthy third-party app stores and developers. Avoid shady websites or links promising free apps. Reputable sources like Setapp thoroughly vet the apps they offer.
Scan for malware. Use a malware scanning app to check any files before opening them. Reputable sources should guarantee apps are malware-free, but scanning provides an extra layer of protection.
Use VPNs safely. A VPN can hide your IP address when sideloading, but make sure to use trustworthy providers that don’t collect logs or data. Free VPNs often cut corners on privacy and security.
Follow expert tips like these to keep your device protected while still accessing and installing the apps you want outside of official app stores.
Conclusion
In summary, the main options covered for getting TikTok without the official app stores include sideloading the Android APK, using a third-party app store, accessing TikTok through the web, and viewing TikTok content without an account. Each method comes with tradeoffs in terms of security, functionality, and accessibility.
Ultimately, deciding whether to sideload TikTok or stick with the official app stores depends on your priorities and willingness to take risks. Official stores like the App Store and Play Store provide strong security, curation, and easy updates. However, sideloading opens up options for regions where TikTok is restricted and gives more control over app versions. There are steps you can take to sideload more safely, but there are always inherent risks with bypassing official channels. Consider your personal needs and tread carefully if you choose to go the sideloading route.
