Installing my Beta Android App on several devices for testing

Question

I have a Beta version of android app and I am looking to install on several devices of my organization for testing before publishing on market

• other than installing through ADB shell and android market. What would be possible way to do this.

• I don't want to use a third party solution like hockeykey.net . What would be the possible way to do it.

*if i had to make an installer how can do that

Any answer,link,suggestion is greatly appreciated. Thank you

Answer 1

I think, the best option, as some already mentioned, is to publish your .apk on a website.

You can have your testers to install any barcode scanner apps (a lot of free, available at Android Market). I like "Barcode Scanner" from ZXing team. And use any QR Code Generator (i.e. http://zxing.appspot.com/generator/) with the full URL to your .apk. Most of the devices won't have any issue.

Devices must have enabled to install from "Unknown Sources".

I recommend to have an .htaccess file to add .apk type (some browser have conflict if not set on server). And some other devices may not download it from stock Android Browser, so they may install any other free browser available on Android Market (such as Dolphin HD)

Answer 2

If your users have enabled unknown sources in preferences, you can send them the APK via email as an attachment, or have them download it from a webpage, and they should be prompted for installation.

Answer 3

If you export the APK, you can load it on any device that allows side loading (you have to enable third party addons on the device).

You can even programmatically update the app if you have an server to download the updated APK from, circumventing the app market entirely.

Answer 4

You can distribute the .apk of your application and (with a file manager) the users will be able to install it.