Solution for error when trying to install an incompatible APK on BlueStacks 5

Some APKs might not work on BlueStacks Air yet. Keep an eye on the release notes for future updates.

Why do I see this pop-up and how can I resolve it?

If you come across the following error message, it may be because the APK you are trying to install requires a different Android version than the one you are currently using.

To resolve this, simply create a new instance based on a different Android version such as BlueStacks 5 Nougat 64-bit, Pie 64-bit, Android 11 or Android 13 (Beta) where you can install it.

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You can do this by following the steps below.

1. Launch BlueStacks 5 and follow the steps below:

  • Click on the Multi-instance Manager icon on the Side toolbar
  • Click on "Instance" and then select "Fresh instance" 
  • Select either "Nougat 64-bit", "Pie 64-bit", "Android 11" or "Android 13 (Beta)" and then click on "Next".

NOTE: If you already have a Nougat 64-bit, Pie 64-bit, Android 11 or Android 13 (Beta) instance, you can simply install the APK on that instance. 

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2. On the next screen, you can customize the settings for your instance according to your preference. Once done, click on "Download" to get the additional files for the selected Android version.

NOTE: If you've created a Nougat 64-bit, Pie 64-bit, Android 11 or Android 13 (Beta) instance in the past, you will see a "Create" button instead of "Download".

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3. The instance you have created will now appear in the Multi-instance Manager. Once the download process is complete, click on "Start" to begin using it.

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You will now be able to install the APK successfully and run the app on the new instance you've created on BlueStacks 5.

If the problem you're facing still persists, or if you have any other questions or queries, feel free to submit a problem report or contact us at the email address given below!


Thank you for choosing BlueStacks. We hope you enjoy using it. Happy Gaming!

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