How to install apps in DiLink

devops · May 6, 2026, 8:35am

How to Install Apps on BYD Denza N9 — Detailed Guide

Installing apps on the BYD Denza N9 depends heavily on the region, software version, and whether the infotainment system allows third-party APK installation. The Denza N9 uses a BYD/Denza Android-based infotainment environment, but many newer BYD/Denza firmware versions restrict APK sideloading, so the same method may work on one car and fail on another. Community guides commonly describe the USB “third party apps” method, while owners on newer firmware often report that sideloading is blocked or requires extra steps. (mikeyip.com)

1. First, check the official options

Before trying APK installation, open the car’s built-in app store or app center.

On the Denza N9 screen:

Turn on the car.
Open the main apps menu.
Look for App Store, Denza App Store, BYD App Store, or Application Center.
Check whether the app you want is already available.
Install it directly if it appears.

This is the safest method because it does not require sideloading and is less likely to affect warranty or system stability. The official Denza mobile app is also used for vehicle binding and connected services, but that is separate from installing apps directly on the car screen. (DENZA)

2. Prepare a USB drive for APK installation

This is the common BYD community method.

You will need:

A USB flash drive.
A computer.
APK files for the apps you want to install.
Preferably apps that are made for landscape Android tablets or Android head units.

Steps:

Insert the USB flash drive into your computer.
Format it as FAT32.
Open the USB drive.
Create a folder named exactly:

third party apps

Use lowercase letters first. Some guides mention variations like Third Party Apps or region-numbered folders, but the classic method uses third party apps. (mikeyip.com)

Download the APK files you want.
Copy the APK files into the third party apps folder.
Safely eject the USB drive.

Important: use APKs only from trusted sources. Avoid modded or repackaged apps, especially for apps that require login, payments, banking, location, microphone, or contacts. Repackaged Android apps can contain malicious code, and this risk is well documented in Android security research. (arXiv)

3. Install the APK from the Denza N9 screen

After preparing the USB:

Start the Denza N9.
Keep the car in Park.
Insert the USB flash drive into the data-capable USB port.
Wait a few seconds.
Open the car’s File Manager or Files app.
Open the USB drive.
Find the folder named third party apps.
Tap the APK file.
If the system asks for permission to install unknown apps, allow it.
Confirm installation.
Wait until the app installs.
Open the app from the apps menu.

Some BYD systems used to show a password prompt for third-party app installation. Community posts mention passwords such as 20211231, BYD6125F, and GHY0613byd, but these are not guaranteed to work and may depend on model, country, and firmware version. (Reddit)

4. What to do if nothing happens

If you insert the USB and the car does not show the APK installer, try this checklist:

Make sure the USB is formatted as FAT32.
Make sure the folder name is exactly:

third party apps

Try this alternate capitalization:

Third Party Apps

Make sure the APK is inside the folder, not outside it.
Try a smaller USB drive, such as 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB.
Try another USB port.
Restart the infotainment screen.
Try a simple APK first, such as a lightweight media player or file manager.
Check whether your car’s firmware blocks sideloading.

Several BYD owners report that newer firmware versions block USB APK installation, while older versions allowed it. This means failure does not necessarily mean you did something wrong; the system may simply be locked on your region or software version. (Reddit)

5. Recommended apps to install

For a car screen, avoid random phone apps that require portrait mode. Better choices are:

Waze — navigation.
Google Maps — if Google services work on your system.
YouTube — only for parked use.
Spotify — music.
VLC — video and audio playback.
AIMP — music player.
Telegram — only if safe and legally allowed in your region.
Car Launcher / Head Unit Launcher — if compatible.
File Manager+ — easier APK and file management.

Do not install apps that distract the driver while moving. Video apps should only be used while parked.

6. Important safety and warranty notes

Installing APKs on the Denza N9 may create problems if the app is poorly optimized, malicious, or incompatible with the car’s Android system. It can cause crashes, battery drain, overheating of the infotainment unit, touchscreen lag, GPS issues, or background services running unexpectedly.

Also, depending on your dealer and country, sideloading apps may affect support or warranty claims related to the infotainment system. I’d personally keep the car clean and only install a few trusted apps that add real value.

Avoid:

Modded APKs.
Cracked apps.
Apps from unknown Telegram channels.
Apps requesting unnecessary permissions.
Apps that overlay the screen while driving.
Anything that modifies system files.
Firmware downgrades unless you fully understand the risks.

7. Simple troubleshooting table

Problem	Possible reason	Fix
USB not detected	Wrong format	Format USB as FAT32
APK not showing	Wrong folder name	Use `third party apps`
Install button missing	Firmware locked	Use official app store or ask dealer
App installs but crashes	App incompatible	Try older or tablet-compatible APK
App opens in portrait	Phone-only app	Use Android TV/tablet version
No Google login	No Google Play Services	Use apps that do not require GMS
Screen becomes slow	Heavy background app	Uninstall unnecessary apps