How-To Geek

4 safe ways to download Android apps without using the Google Play Store

To download and install an app on Android, you need to prep your device. Forgoing the Play Store bypasses Google's security ...
YAHOO!

Your Android Phone Can Install Apps Outside The Play Store – Here's How

While the Play Store is the go-to place for installing apps, Android devices also support sideloading them. Here are two ways ...
The Hacker News

Google to Allow One-Tap Android App Installs From Approved Third-Party Stores Outside U.S.

Google will let approved third-party Android stores offer one-tap installs and background updates outside the US, subject to malware scanning.

I found a safer way to install APKs and keep them updated on Android

How I manage sideloaded app updates ...
Android Authority

Android's controversial sideloading changes pushed me to build my own app installer

I don’t have a problem using ADB via the command line every now and again. But between remembering where I put the executable, opening a terminal window, connecting a device, and pasting in the APK ...