Android Auto Apps

KingInstaller | Install Apps on Android Auto

KingInstaller is a powerful Android utility that allows users to bypass Google's strict restrictions on Android Auto. If you want to run third-party apps like Fermata Auto, Screen2Auto, or CarStream on your car's infotainment screen, this tool makes it possible. This guide covers everything about how KingInstaller Android Auto works, safe download sources, installation steps, and critical fixes for Android 14 users.

What Is KingInstaller?

KingInstaller is a specialized installation tool designed to trick Android into believing that sideloaded apps came from the Google Play Store. When you install an APK using this utility, it tags the application as Play Store-verified. This allows Android Auto to trust and display the app on your car's head unit.

Google blocks most apps that are not verified through the Play Store from appearing on Android Auto interfaces. If you simply sideload a video player APK through your file manager, it will not show up on your dashboard. KingInstaller solves this problem by spoofing the package installation source.

How Does KingInstaller Work?

The KingInstaller APK works by modifying the metadata of installed applications. When you use it to install an app, the utility changes the installation source information. Instead of showing the app was installed from a file manager or browser, it displays Google Play Store as the source.

This process does not modify the app itself. It only changes how Android identifies where the app came from. The result is that Android Auto's security checks pass, and the app appears on your car screen alongside officially approved applications.

KingInstaller vs AAAD | What are the Differences

Users often confuse KingInstaller with AAAD (Android Auto Apps Downloader). While both tools help install third-party apps on Android Auto, they work differently.

Key Differences

AAAD functions like an app store. It downloads and installs applications automatically from its own servers.
KingInstaller works only as an installer. You must manually download the APK file first from sources like GitHub, then use the tool to process the installation.

Choose KingInstaller Android Auto if you prefer more control over which APK files you install. Choose AAAD if you want a simpler, more automated experience.

How to Download KingInstaller APK Safely

Finding a safe KingInstaller APK download is crucial to avoid malware. The app is open-source under the GPL-3.0 license, which means its code is publicly available for review.

Recommended Download Sources

Always download from these trusted locations:

GitHub Repository: The official repository by developer fcaronte offers the latest verified version.
IzzyOnDroid F-Droid Repository: A trusted alternative source that hosts verified open-source apps.
APKMirror: A reputable site that verifies APK signatures before hosting.

Avoid downloading from random APK websites or forums. These sources may contain modified versions with malware or unwanted code.

Current Version Information

The latest stable version is KingInstaller 1.4. Some users search for KingInstaller 1.2 APK which was a popular earlier release. While version 1.2 still works on older Android versions, upgrading to version 1.4 provides better compatibility and includes fixes for Oppo, Realme, and OnePlus devices.

How to Install Apps Using KingInstaller

Follow these steps to install third-party apps on Android Auto using KingInstaller.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Download the target APK file. Save the app you want to install (such as Fermata Auto) to your phone storage. Get APKs from trusted sources like GitHub.
Uninstall existing versions. If the app is already on your phone, remove it completely before proceeding.
Open KingInstaller. Launch the app and grant the required permissions when prompted.
Grant necessary permissions. You must allow two permissions:
- Manage all files (to locate your APK)
- Install unknown apps (allow installation from this source)
Select your APK file. Tap "Select file" and navigate to your downloaded APK.
Install as king. Tap the "Install as king" button to begin the installation process.
Wait for completion. The installation is complete when the progress bar clears.

Verifying Successful Installation

To confirm the app installed correctly:

Go to Settings on your phone.
Navigate to Apps and select See all apps.
Find the app you installed and tap on it.
Scroll to the bottom and check the Store field.
It should display "App installed from Google Play Store."

Enabling Android Auto Developer Settings

Before connecting to your car, enable unknown sources in Android Auto:

Open Settings and go to Connected devices.
Select Android Auto.
Tap "Version and permission info" several times to unlock developer options.
Open Developer settings from the three-dot menu.
Enable "Unknown sources" toggle.

KingInstaller Android 14 Compatibility Issues

Android 14 introduced security patches that broke KingInstaller functionality for many users. Google patched the specific loophole the tool relied on, causing significant problems.

The Android 14 Problem

After updating to Android 14, users report that installed apps show "Downloaded from KingInstaller" instead of "Google Play Store" in the app metadata. This means the spoofing no longer works, and apps like Fermata Auto fail to appear on the car screen.

Workarounds for Android 14 Users

Several solutions exist depending on your situation:

For Non-Root Users:

AAWireless Dongle Method: Users have successfully bypassed Android 14 restrictions using an AAWireless adapter. Enable Developer Mode within the AAWireless companion app. The dongle acts as a middleman, modifying data sent to the car to allow third-party apps.
Downgrade Android Auto Version: Some users report success by downgrading Android Auto to version 12.x. Versions 13 and above have stricter enforcement.

For Root Users:

LSPosed Module: Install the Fermata Auto LSPosed module if you have root access with Magisk. This method bypasses the restriction at the system level.
XLauncher Unlocked: An Xposed module that unlocks restricted apps in Android Auto.

Apps Installed Before Upgrade

If you installed apps using KingInstaller on Android 13 before upgrading to Android 14, those apps may continue working. The restriction primarily affects new installations after the upgrade.

Is KingInstaller Safe?

Security concerns are common among new users, especially when antivirus software flags the app.

Common Misconceptions

KingInstaller is NOT KingRoot. Many users confuse these two apps. KingRoot is an obsolete Chinese rooting tool that is completely unrelated. KingInstaller does not root your phone and does not require root access to function on standard Android versions.

Antivirus False Positives

Antivirus programs like Malwarebytes often flag KingInstaller APK as a Potentially Unwanted Application or even a Trojan. This happens because the app's core function involves modifying system installation sources. Security software inherently distrusts this type of behavior.

The community widely regards these warnings as false positives. The app is open-source, allowing anyone to audit the code and verify its safety.

Safety Best Practices

Download only from official sources (GitHub, F-Droid, APKMirror).
Check the APK signature matches the developer's official release.
Review permissions before granting access.
Keep the app updated to the latest version.

Device-Specific Optimizations

KingInstaller includes special logic to improve success rates on certain devices known for aggressive restrictions.

Oppo, Realme, and OnePlus Devices

These devices require an additional step. When installing, check the "Enable if you use Oppo, Realme or OnePlus phone" option. Then select "Default Package installer" before proceeding with installation.

LineageOS Devices

For rooted LineageOS phones, enable the "Enable if you use rooted (LineageOS) phone" option. Grant root access when prompted for the installation to work correctly.

Google Pixel Devices

Pixel phones on Android 13 may need to reinstall or update the Google PackageInstaller. Download the same version from APKMirror, install it normally, then use KingInstaller to install your target apps.

Popular Apps to Use with KingInstaller

Here are some commonly installed apps using KingInstaller Android Auto:

Fermata Auto: A media player that enables video playback and screen mirroring on Android Auto.
CarStream: Allows YouTube and other video streaming on your car display.
Screen2Auto: Mirrors your phone screen to the car's head unit.
AA-Torque: Displays vehicle diagnostics through Android Auto.
Custom Launchers: Modified launchers that change the Android Auto interface.

Conclusion

KingInstaller remains an essential tool for Android Auto enthusiasts who want to expand their in-car app options. While Android 14 introduced challenges, workarounds exist for both root and non-root users. Always download the KingInstaller APK from official sources like GitHub or F-Droid to ensure safety.

Whether you want to install Fermata Auto for video playback or custom launchers for a personalized interface, KingInstaller Android Auto makes it possible. Keep the app updated, follow the installation steps carefully, and enjoy expanded functionality on your car's infotainment system.

Frequently Asked Questions about KIngInstaller

What is the latest version of KingInstaller APK?

The latest stable version is KingInstaller 1.4. This version includes fixes for Oppo, Realme, OnePlus devices, and LineageOS support. Users searching for KingInstaller 1.2 APK should consider upgrading to the newer version for better compatibility.

Is KingInstaller the same as KingRoot?

No, these are completely different apps. KingRoot is an obsolete rooting tool. KingInstaller does not root your device and serves only as an installation utility for Android Auto apps.

How do I install apps using KingInstaller?

Download the target APK to your phone, open KingInstaller, grant the required permissions, select your APK file, and tap "Install as king." The app will install with Play Store metadata, allowing it to appear on Android Auto.

Why does my antivirus flag KingInstaller as malware?

Antivirus software flags KingInstaller APK because it modifies system installation sources. This behavior triggers heuristic detection even though the app is safe. The app is open-source, allowing community code review. Download only from official sources to ensure safety.

Can KingInstaller install XAPK files?

No, KingInstaller only supports standard APK files. If you have an XAPK file, you cannot use this tool. You would need to extract the APK from the XAPK package first or use a different installer.

Where can I safely download KingInstaller APK?

Download from the official GitHub repository by developer fcaronte, the IzzyOnDroid F-Droid repository, or APKMirror. Avoid random APK sites that may host modified or malicious versions.

Why doesn't my installed app appear on Android Auto?

First, verify the app shows "Google Play Store" as the installation source in your phone settings. Then ensure "Unknown sources" is enabled in Android Auto developer settings. If using Android 14 or later, the spoof may not work due to Google's security patches.

Do I need to enable developer settings in Android Auto?

Yes. Go to Android Auto settings, tap "Version and permission info" multiple times to unlock developer options, then enable "Unknown sources" in the Developer settings menu.

Does KingInstaller work with wireless Android Auto?

Yes, apps installed via KingInstaller Android Auto work with both wired and wireless connections. However, some users report better success with wireless adapters like AAWireless for bypassing Android 14 restrictions.

Does KingInstaller work on Android 14?

KingInstaller has limited functionality on Android 14. Google patched the loophole it exploited, causing installed apps to show "Downloaded from KingInstaller" instead of "Google Play Store." This breaks the spoof and prevents apps from appearing on Android Auto.

What is the workaround for Android 14?

Non-root users can try using an AAWireless dongle with Developer Mode enabled. Root users can install the LSPosed module or XLauncher Unlocked Xposed module. Downgrading Android Auto to version 12.x also helps in some cases.

Will apps installed before upgrading to Android 14 still work?

Yes, in most cases. Apps installed with KingInstaller on Android 13 before upgrading continue working. The restriction mainly affects new installations after the Android 14 upgrade.

Does KingInstaller work on Samsung phones?

Yes, KingInstaller works on Samsung devices. However, Android 14 restrictions apply regardless of manufacturer. Users with Samsung Galaxy S23 and S24 series on Android 14 report the same issues as other devices.

Does KingInstaller require root access?

No, KingInstaller does not require root for standard Android versions. However, rooted LineageOS devices have an optional root mode for improved compatibility.

Is KingInstaller safe to use?

Yes, KingInstaller is generally safe. It is open-source under GPL-3.0 license, allowing anyone to review the code. Always download from official sources like GitHub or F-Droid. Antivirus warnings are typically false positives triggered by the app's system-level functionality.