The Google Play Store serves as the official app marketplace for Android, boasting an extensive collection of millions of applications and games. Unlike Apple’s App Store, Google adopts relatively relaxed policies regarding app submissions; however, there remain several noteworthy applications that do not make it onto the platform.
In some instances, apps are excluded due to violations of Google’s established guidelines. In other cases, developers might choose to bypass the Play Store to avoid associated fees or to maintain their apps as open-source projects without restrictions.
Without further ado, here are the top five Android apps that I integrate into my daily routine, which you will not find on the Play Store.
1. Metrolist
Metrolist is a versatile music player that essentially acts as an alternative frontend for YouTube Music. This application delivers the experience of a premium streaming service—complete with ad-free listening and streamlined functionality. Users can log in with their YouTube Music accounts to synchronize playlists and libraries seamlessly.
Additionally, Metrolist features Discord Rich Presence support through KizzyRPC, enabling friends to view what you’re currently listening to, including details about the artist and track.
Powered by InnerTube—the very API used by the official YouTube Music app—Metrolist provides access to curated playlists such as “Today’s Biggest Hits”and personalized mixes. Users can enjoy background playback, download songs for offline listening, and scroll through live lyrics synced with their music.
Whether you choose to log in or simply browse casually, Metrolist offers flexible options for music enthusiasts. The app also supports searching for individual tracks, artists, complete albums, or playlists.
The latest updates have improved Android Auto compatibility, enhanced navigation, and reduced loading times. For a lightweight yet powerful music player that utilizes YouTube Music while eliminating distractions, download the Metrolist APK here.
2. Chance
As an occasional visitor to the unpredictable realm of 4chan, particularly its technology board /g/, I understand the desire for a refined mobile experience. My previous attempts at using apps like Omnichan and Clover often resulted in outdated looks and cumbersome interfaces.
If you’re searching for a sleek and modern mobile client to browse 4chan without the 2012 aesthetics, Chance is an excellent choice. This app boasts an attractive interface, responsive design, and a variety of must-have features, including media gallery views, thread notifications, and intuitive swipe navigation.
While primarily a 4chan application, Chance allows the addition of other imageboards for those interested. Features such as a built-in CAPTCHA solver enhance the user experience, alongside archive access for digging through removed threads. You can download Chance here.
3. Revanced Manager
Revanced Manager is a versatile tool facilitating the customization of popular apps such as YouTube. It enables users to eliminate ads, disable Shorts, restore dislike counts, implement SponsorBlock for skipping sponsors automatically, and much more.
By scanning your device for supported applications, Revanced Manager simplifies the patching process, allowing for easy application of modifications without the hassle of locating APKs manually. Users can even save patched applications for future use, easing transitions between devices or during resets.
If you’re interested in enhancing your apps, you can get the Revanced Manager APK here.
4. YTDLnis
Known for its somewhat quirky name, YTDLnis is a powerful media downloader for Android that interfaces with yt-dlp, providing users with a touch-friendly and intuitive experience. To download media, simply paste a YouTube link into the search bar, and let the app do the rest.
With yt-dlp at its core, YTDLnis supports an extensive array of websites—including YouTube, TikTok, Vimeo, and SoundCloud. If you want to bypass sponsor segments from videos, YTDLnis features SponsorBlock, allowing you to exclude those segments during downloads. It also supports audio-only downloads and embedding subtitles or chapters.
One of my favorite aspects of YTDLnis is its seamless integration with the YouTube app. Instead of switching back and forth between applications, you can use a button within YouTube to streamline the download process:
To enable this feature, you will need a modified YouTube app via ReVanced Manager. Instructions can be easily followed within the app settings for smooth operation. Even if you’re using the standard YouTube app, you can still utilize the Share option for downloads, although it does require a few additional steps.
5. Sync for Reddit
Previously my preferred choice for Reddit, Sync was the ultimate third-party client for Android, featuring a sleek design and intuitive user interface. Its removal from the Play Store during the third-party client purge diminished my interaction with Reddit on mobile, as I found the official app to be lacking.
Despite having been removed, you can still access the last APK release from APKMirror, though it comes with an unsettling shutdown message:
Dear Sync users,
Unfortunately, this will be the last update. Due to API changes, Sync for Reddit will shut down on June 30, 2023, and will no longer function.
But this isn’t goodbye forever! I’m currently working on Sync for Lemmy to bring the same Sync look and feature set to Lemmy. I hope you will join us in this exciting new chapter.
It’s been an honor and a privilege. Thank you all.
— Lj
Fortunately, there exists a method to “revive”Sync using ReVanced Manager and the Sync for Reddit APK. Follow these steps:
- Visit https://old.reddit.com/prefs/apps.
- Select the “Are you a developer? Create an app…” button.
- Name your app, select Installed app as the type, and for Redirect URI, input
http://redditsync/auth. Complete the CAPTCHA and create the app. -
- Take note of the client secret provided in the section above the application form.
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- Download the latest Sync for Reddit APK from a reliable source (like APKMirror) but do not install it yet.
- Open Revanced Manager and navigate to the Patcher tab.
- Select the downloaded Sync APK from your storage.
- Choose Selected patches, ensuring Spoof client is checked.
- Click the gear icon next to Spoof client, paste in the client secret, and save.
-
- Finish by tapping Done, then Patch. Install the patched APK when complete, and you will have revived Sync!
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This procedure can be saved for future installations, removing the need to repeat the steps on each device. Keep in mind that this approach is unofficial, so seeking help from the Revanced and Reddit communities may be beneficial if you encounter difficulties.
This concludes my roundup of must-have Android apps that are absent from the Play Store. Are there any other applications you rely on daily that you’d like to spotlight? Share your recommendations in the comments below.
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