How to add Play Store on Samsung Smart TV

Samsung Smart TVs come equipped with their own app store. It’s known as the Samsung app store. However, it is not unusual for some users to want to have more entertainment options by choosing to download the Google Play Store app. One notable limitation is their operating system, Tizen OS, which does not natively support the Google Play Store.

This aspect can be a drawback if you are accustomed to the vast selection of apps available on the Play Store and wish to access them on their Samsung Smart TVs. In this guide, we will look at several effective methods to add Play Store functionality to your Samsung Smart TV. 

Understanding the Limitations

Before proceeding, it’s important to understand that Samsung Smart TVs run on the Tizen OS, which does not support the Google Play Store. Below are some ways to access the Play Store on your Samsung TVs:

• Using a streaming device
• Installing third-party apps via USB
• Casting from a mobile device

Using a Streaming Device to Access Play Store on Samsung Smart TV

If you are looking for an easy way to access the Play Store on your Samsung Smart TV, you can buy a streaming service. Such services include Google Chromecast, Amazon Fire Stick, and Roku. Once you connect these devices to your TV, you can install the Play Store app. 

How to Set Up a Streaming Device

1. Buy a Compatible Streaming Device: Buy a streaming device that supports the Google Play Store, such as Google Chromecast.
2. Connect the Device to Your TV: Plug the streaming device into an available HDMI port on your Samsung Smart TV.
3. Power On the Device: Ensure the streaming device is powered on and connected to your Wi-Fi network.
4. Switch to the HDMI Input: Use your TV remote to switch to the HDMI input where your streaming device is connected.
5. Set Up the Device: Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the streaming device and link it to your Google account.
6. Access the Play Store: Once set up, you can access the Play Store through the streaming device’s interface and download apps.

Installing Third-Party Apps via USB

Another option to access Play Store apps is by sideloading Android APK files onto your Samsung Smart TV. This method involves downloading the APK files onto a USB drive and installing them on the TV.

Steps to Sideload Apps via USB

Enable Developer Mode:

• Go to the TV’s settings menu.
• Navigate to “About this TV” and select “Software Information.”
• Press the “Info” button on the remote multiple times until Developer Mode is enabled.

Enable Installation from Unknown Sources:

• Go to “Settings” > “Security.”
• Enable the option to install apps from unknown sources.

Download APK Files:

• On your computer, download the APK files of the apps you want from a trusted source.

Transfer APK Files to USB:

• Copy the downloaded APK files to a USB drive.

Install APK Files on TV:

• Insert the USB drive into your Samsung Smart TV.
• Open the File Explorer app on your TV and navigate to the USB drive.
• Select the APK files and follow the prompts to install them.

Casting from a Mobile Device

Apart from the above-listed methods, you can also use your mobile device to cast apps from the Play Store to your Samsung Smart TV.

Steps to Cast from a Mobile Device

1. Ensure Both Devices Are on the Same Network:
   • Connect your Samsung Smart TV and your mobile device to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Open the Play Store on Your Mobile Device:
   • Download and install the Google Home app if you don’t already have it.
3. Set Up Google Home:
   • Open the Google Home app and set up your Samsung Smart TV as a new device.
4. Cast Your Screen:
   • Open the app you want to cast.
   • Tap the cast icon and select your Samsung Smart TV from the list of available devices.