How to install geo-blocked apps without sideloading?

by zfa

I've got a Xiaomi MiBox (AndroidTV) and want to install the BBC Sports app on it despite not being in the UK. Unfortunately it isn't available in my region.

I know I could probably sideload it but this means I don't get updates etc.

Is it possible to 'fool' an AndroidTV box into thinking it is in another country? How is this determined? I've tried using a UK VPN but that didn't seem to change anything (defined on my router - ALL traffic from MiBox was sent over it).

(EDIT: I am aware that normally BBC content won't play outside the UK, already got this covered via a smart DNS service)

abadguy87

You have 2 options:

  1. sideloading the apk. If the app is android TV compatible you will see the icon normally as you would installing it from the play store. You will not receive updates but you can install "apk updater" that checks for sideloaded updates and inform you. You will still have to manually update but still, it's something.

2)create a UK Google account, logout and enter on your TV with that. Go to settings-->apps and delete data from play services and play store. Get a vpn and connect to a UK server (smart dns won't fool the play store). Now you can open the play store and browse all the UK apps. Note that if you logout to your main account you still won't receive updates*

*I think so I still have to verify that.

bhart81

Go to apk mirror dot com and download the apk. Put it on a thumb drive load it on your mibox.