Android - Install from APK
RescueTime from Google Play does not support call tracking due to Google's policies. If you want call tracking, you'll need to install RescueTime directly from the APK. The APK is exactly the same binary application that is served in the Play Store, but with Call Tracking permissions enabled.
Android disables APK installation by default for security reasons. You'll need to enable installation from unknown sources. Below we share instructions on how to do that based on the Android version.
Android 5+
- Go to Menu > Settings > Security > and check Unknown Sources to allow your phone to install apps from sources other than the Google Play Store.
- Open a web browser on your Android device and download the RescueTime APK file
- You might need to grant storage permission to your browser in order to save the file.
- Open the downloaded file by tapping on it.
- Click Install when prompted.
- (Optional) After RescueTime is installed you can disable the unknown-app installation permission for better security. Go to Menu > Settings > Security and uncheck Unknown Sources.
Android 8+
- Open a web browser on your Android device and download the RescueTime APK file
- You might need to grant storage permission to your browser in order to save the file.
- Open the downloaded file by tapping on it.
- Grant permission to let your browser Install Unknown Apps by enabling it.
- Click Install when prompted.
- You'll now be able to check " Track Calls" from the Settings screen in your RescueTime app.
- (Optional) After RescueTime is installed you can disable the unknown-app installation permission for better security. Go to Menu > Settings > Apps & Notifications > Advanced (Special app access) > Install unknown apps > Disable the browser that you previously enabled.
*In Android 11, go to Menu > Settings > Biometrics and Security > Install Unknown apps > Disable the browser you previously enabled.
