Sideload Apps on Nvidia Shield TV 2017 with ES File Explorer
1. Install ES File Manager on Nvidia Shield TV 2017
To be able to sideload apps on Nvidia Shield TV 2017, first open Google Play Store,
search for “ES File Explorer”, and Install it.
Install ES File Explorer on Nvidia Shield TV 2
.
2. Download APK File on to a USB Drive
Next, download the APK files of all the apps that you want to sideload to a USB drive as shown in the picture below. Many times you can find the APK files on the App website or just by googling app name and the word APK.
Download APK Files to USB Drive
3. Open USB Drive in ES File Explorer
Then, insert the USB drive into one of the two USB ports of Nvidia Shield TV 2017 edition. Open ES File Explorer and find the links to explore the contents of the USB drive. There should be at least 2 links: ES File Explorer home page and on the left menu under “Local”, as shown in the picture below.
Open USB Drive on ES File Explorer
Upon clicking the USB drive, you may be presented with a prompt as shown below. It is entirely your preference whether to check the checkbox presented or not.
ES File Explorer USB Access Preference
Click “OK” to continue. As a reminder, in this tutorial
I am using a Wireless Keyboard Mouse combo that simplified the process for me.
4. Sideload Apps on Nvidia Shield TV 2
The final step is finding the APK file and installing it.
Ensure that you have(enabled Unknown Sources for Apps) implemented before proceeding.
see video below on how to do this.
Once the USB drive is open to explore on ES File Manager,
find the APK file you want to sideload and open it.
Sideload APK Files on Nvidia Shield TV 2 with ES File Explorer
You will be prompted with options to install the APK file on Nvidia Shield TV,
as shown below.
Select “Install” and continue through the process to sideload apps on Nvidia Shield TV 2017.
Install APK Files on Nvidia Shield TV 2017
SIDELOADING APPS ON NVIDIA SHIELD TV – FINAL THOUGHTS
ES File Explorer, even with its bad reputation, has features that make sideloading apps on Nvidia Shield TV 2 a breeze. As long as you know what you are doing and do not click on ads you do not intend to click on, you should be fine using this file manager. But by now I am sure you will agree with me on how easy the process is. When you are ready, go ahead, sideload apps on Nvidia Shield TV 2017 and enhance your Shield experience.
