For most Android users, the Play Store is the only place they ever look for apps, and honestly, that’s how I used Android for years, too. But over time, I realized that some of the most interesting Android apps aren’t actually available on the Play Store at all. Some are not listed because they violate Google’s policies, while others are simply too niche or developed by small open-source communities that simply don’t care about Play Store distribution.
Ironically, that’s also where I’ve found some of my favorite Android apps in recent years. And the best part is that all these apps are completely free and open source. Here are a few of my favorites.
