This guide provides step-by-step instructions for installing apps, choosing the appropriate app store, and following best practices—especially when using the Aurora Store.
🌐 F-Droid & Neo Store #
F-Droid and Neo Store are open-source app stores offering privacy-focused apps. Neo Store, a newer client with a modern design, connects to F-Droid’s trusted repository and others for more apps. 🛠️
Remember: Neo Store First! #
Serach Neo Store/F-Droid first for generic or common apps. For instance, I’d look here first for a guitar tuner. Since these stores prioritize privacy and are all open-source, it’s ideal that you use these apps.
Hidden Gems
Discover amazing apps like:
- NewPipe for ad-free YouTube 🎥
- VLC for media 🎵
- Rimusic, VPNs, podcasts, and meditation timers 🧘
These stores are full of tools I use daily—free, open-source, and privacy-friendly. 🌟
📲 Aurora Store #
Aurora Store is a privacy-friendly alternative to the Google Play Store, allowing you to download apps anonymously. It connects to the Play Store but protects your privacy by letting you sign in anonymously.
When to Use Aurora Store? #
Aurora Store is perfect for apps you can’t find on F-Droid or Neo Store, like banking apps, streaming services, or other proprietary tools.
ℹ️ While it gives access to a huge library, it’s always best to remember that your in-app activity on apps downloaded here is often tracked.🔒
- For example, even though you downloaded facebook on aurora store, doesn’t mean what you do on that facebook app isn’t tracked.
Best Practices
- Use Aurora anonymously to avoid linking downloads to your identity.
- Try to avoid granting apps unnecessary permissions.
- Blacklist apps you dont want to update by tap and holding them on the update screen.
Aurora Store bridges the gap between privacy and mainstream app availability, giving you access to essential apps without compromising your data. 🛡️
📥 How do i install apps usually found on Google Play? #
The vast majority of apps will be found on aurora store and using Aurora Store is quick and easy!
- Open Aurora Store
- Launch the app and choose to sign in anonymously for privacy. 🌐
- Search for Your App
- Tap the search button in the bottom right and find the app you need. Aurora Store pulls apps directly from the Google Play Store, so most apps are available. 🔍
- Press Install
- Once you’ve found your app, tap Install and wait for it to finish downloading. ⏳
- Confirm Installation
- After the download, confirm the installation by tapping Install when prompted. 📦
- Wait Until Finished
- Installation might take some time, as your phone securely compartmentalizes the app for better privacy. 🔒
- Done!
- Your app is ready to use. 🎉
🛒 How Do I Use Neo Store? #
Neo Store makes finding and installing apps simple! Here’s how:
- Search for an App
Tap the search icon between the home and explore icons at the bottom. Type in the app name or browse through the available options. 🔍 - Install the App
Once you’ve found the app, tap on it to open the details page. Then, tap Install at the top of the page. Wait for the download to complete and confirm the installation when prompted. ⏳ - Manage Installed Apps
Under the Home icon, you’ll find the “Installed” section. Here, you can view all your installed apps and use the Update All button if updates are available. 🔄
With Neo Store, managing and updating your privacy apps is a breeze! 🎉