Download Bilibili App 2025: Complete Installation Guide for Android & iOS

How to Download Bilibili App (2025 Complete Guide) — Android, iOS & Web for International Users

Bilibili has become one of China’s most popular video-sharing platforms, offering a unique blend of anime, gaming content, educational videos, and live streaming. However, downloading the official Bilibili app outside China can be challenging due to regional restrictions and language barriers.

This comprehensive guide will show you how to safely download and install the Bilibili app on Android, iOS, and web platforms, no matter where you are in the world.

Why Download the Official Bilibili App?

Mobile App Advantages:

Superior Streaming Quality: Higher video resolution and better buffering compared to web version
Offline Download Capability: Save videos for watching without internet connection
Push Notifications: Get instant updates from your favorite creators
Optimized User Interface: Mobile-optimized design with intuitive navigation
Social Features: Full access to comments, likes, and community interaction
Battery Efficiency: Better power management than web browsers
Exclusive Content: Some features and content are only available in the mobile app

System Requirements and Compatibility

Android Requirements

OS Version: Android 6.0 or higher
Storage Space: Minimum 200MB free space
RAM: 2GB or more recommended
Internet: Stable connection for initial download and streaming

iOS Requirements

OS Version: iOS 12.0 or higher
Device Compatibility: iPhone 6s or newer, iPad Pro/Air/Mini
Storage: Minimum 300MB free space
Apple ID: May require region-specific Apple ID for App Store access

Web Version Requirements

Browser: Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Edge (latest versions)
Internet: High-speed connection for optimal streaming
JavaScript: Must be enabled for full functionality

Android Installation Methods

Method 1: Official APK Download (Safest)

Step 1: Enable Unknown Sources

Go to Settings > Security > Unknown Sources
For Android 8+: Enable for your browser only
Confirm the security prompt when it appears

Step 2: Download from Official Sources

Visit Bilibili’s official website: bilibili.com
Look for “手机版” (Mobile Version) or “APP下载” (App Download)
Or use trusted APK mirrors like APKMirror for verified versions

Step 3: Verify and Install

Check APK file size (typically 150-300MB)
Verify the app signature matches official builds
Install the APK and grant necessary permissions
Open the app and complete initial setup

Method 2: Google Play Store (If Available)

Step 1: Check Regional Availability

Open Google Play Store on your device
Search for “Bilibili” or “哔哩哔哩”
If available, proceed with normal installation

Step 2: VPN Method for Access

Connect to VPN server in China, Hong Kong, or Singapore
Clear Play Store cache and data
Search again for Bilibili
Install while maintaining VPN connection

Method 3: Third-Party App Stores

Recommended Android App Stores:

APKPure: Large collection with regular updates
APKMirror: Verified safe APKs from official sources
Uptodown: User reviews and virus scanning
F-Droid: Open-source focused, security-minded

iOS Installation Methods

Method 1: App Store Region Change (Recommended)

Step 1: Backup Your Device

Go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud > iCloud Backup
Tap “Back Up Now” to save your current data
Ensure you have payment methods removed from current Apple ID

Step 2: Change Region Settings

Navigate to Settings > General > Language & Region
Change “Region” to Hong Kong, Singapore, or mainland China
Restart your device for changes to take effect

Step 3: Create New Apple ID

Sign out of current Apple ID in App Store
Create new Apple ID with region-appropriate details
Skip payment method setup during registration
Search for “哔哩哔哩” or “Bilibili” and download

Pro Tip: Hong Kong region often works best for international users as it supports English and has reliable access to Bilibili.

Method 2: Third-Party iOS App Stores

Trusted iOS Alternative Stores:

TutuApp: Popular alternative with Bilibili availability
Panda Helper: Reliable source with regular app updates
AppValley: User-friendly interface with good security
AltStore: Community-driven app store

Method 3: TestFlight Beta Program

Requirements:

Apple TestFlight app installed from App Store
Bilibili beta testing invitation (when available)
Compatible iOS device

Installation Process:

Join Bilibili’s official beta testing program
Accept the TestFlight invitation email
Install the beta version through TestFlight
Provide feedback to help improve the app

Web Version Access

Direct Browser Access

Visit bilibili.com in any modern browser
No download required - works instantly
Full access to most features except offline downloads

Progressive Web App (PWA)

Open Bilibili in Chrome or Safari
Look for “Install App” or “Add to Home Screen” option
Install as a web app for mobile-like experience
Works offline for some features

Safety and Security Guide

How to Verify Safe Downloads

Source Verification:

Only download from Bilibili’s official website
Use well-known, trusted app stores with good reputations
Avoid random download sites with poor security practices

File Integrity Checks:

Verify APK file size matches official specifications
Check app version number and release date
Read user reviews and comments before downloading

Security Scanning:

Use Google Play Protect to scan downloaded APKs
Upload suspicious files to VirusTotal.com for analysis
Keep your device’s security software updated

Permissions Management

Necessary Permissions:

Storage: For downloading and caching videos
Network: For streaming and data access
Notifications: For push notifications (optional)

Optional Permissions:

Location: For regional content recommendations
Camera: For QR code scanning and AR features
Microphone: For voice search and comments

Installation Troubleshooting

Common Android Issues

Problem	Solution
”App Not Compatible” error	Try older APK version or use web version
Installation blocked by security	Enable unknown sources temporarily
App crashes on launch	Clear cache, update app, or reinstall
Parse error during installation	Download APK again from different source
Insufficient storage space	Clear device storage or use SD card

Common iOS Issues

Problem	Solution
App not available in your region	Change App Store region or use web version
Installation requires different Apple ID	Create new Apple ID for appropriate region
App won’t open after installation	Restart device or reinstall the app
Verification required during install	Add payment method to Apple ID settings
Beta version expired	Update to latest TestFlight version

General Troubleshooting

Network Issues:

Ensure stable internet connection during download
Try different DNS servers (8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1)
Clear browser cache if using web version

Device Compatibility:

Check if your device meets minimum requirements
Update your operating system to latest version
Clear storage space for installation

Post-Installation Setup

Account Configuration

Open the app and tap “注册” (Register) or “登录” (Login)
Use your existing Bilibili account or create new one
Complete email or phone verification if required
Set up profile information and preferences

Language and Interface Settings

Navigate to Settings (设置) in the app
Look for language options (语言设置)
Some interface elements support English toggles
Use device translation features for persistent UI translation

Notification Preferences

Enable push notifications for followed creators
Set content category preferences in settings
Configure download settings for offline viewing
Adjust streaming quality based on your internet connection

Alternative Access Methods

Browser Extensions

Bilibili Helper: Enhanced browsing experience
Subtitle Downloader: Extract subtitles from videos
Quality Changer: Adjust video quality settings

Desktop Applications

Electron-based apps: Unofficial desktop clients
Web wrappers: Browser-based desktop applications
Media players: For downloaded content playback

Smart TV and Console Access

Android TV: Install APK on compatible devices
Fire TV: Side-load APK through file manager
Game Consoles: Use web browser for access

Content and Feature Overview

Video Categories

Animation (动画): Anime, cartoons, fan content
Gaming (游戏): Gameplay, commentary, esports
Knowledge (知识): Educational, documentaries
Music (音乐): MVs, performances, covers
Technology (科技): Reviews, tutorials, tech news
Lifestyle (生活): Vlogs, cooking, travel

Premium Features

VIP Membership: Ad-free experience, higher quality
Exclusive Content: Premium-only videos and series
Early Access: New content before regular users
Advanced Features: Background play, downloads

Interaction Features

Comments (评论): Traditional comment system
Danmaku (弹幕): Real-time scrolling comments over video
Likes and Favorites: Save and organize content
Following: Track your favorite creators

Creator Tools

Upload Content: Share your own videos
Live Streaming: Broadcast live to your audience
Analytics: Track your content performance
Monetization: Earn from your content

Legal and Safety Considerations

Terms of Service

Respect Bilibili’s community guidelines
Follow copyright regulations for downloaded content
Be aware of regional content restrictions
Understand age restrictions for certain content

Privacy and Data

Review Bilibili’s privacy policy
Manage your data sharing preferences
Be cautious with personal information
Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication

FAQs for International Users

Is Bilibili app available outside China?

Yes, but availability varies by region. You may need to use alternative download methods or change your app store region to access the official app.

Is it safe to download Bilibili APK from third-party sites?

Only download from reputable sources like APKMirror or the official Bilibili website. Always scan downloaded files with security software before installation.

Do I need to know Chinese to use Bilibili?

While the interface is primarily in Chinese, many international users navigate successfully using visual cues, translation tools, and the app’s intuitive design.

Can I use the same account across different devices?

Yes, your Bilibili account works seamlessly across web, iOS, and Android platforms with synchronized preferences and watch history.

What should I do if the app crashes frequently?

Try clearing the app cache, updating to the latest version, or reinstalling the app. Check if your device meets the minimum requirements.

Are there any costs associated with using Bilibili?

The basic app and most content are free to use. However, premium features like VIP membership, exclusive content, and advanced features may require payment.

How often is the app updated?

Bilibili releases regular updates with new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements. Check for updates every few weeks for the best experience.

Can I download videos for offline viewing?

Yes, the mobile app supports offline downloads for most videos. Download availability may vary based on content creator preferences and regional restrictions.

What’s the difference between the app and web version?

The mobile app offers better video quality, offline downloads, push notifications, and a more optimized user experience compared to the web version.

Is Bilibili available in English?

Currently, Bilibili doesn’t have an official English version, but many videos include English subtitles, and you can use browser translation tools for the interface.

How do I report bugs or issues with the app?

You can report bugs through the app’s feedback system or contact Bilibili’s customer support through their official website.

Can I use Bilibili without creating an account?

Yes, you can browse and watch most content without an account, but you’ll need to register to comment, like videos, and access certain features.

What payment methods are accepted for premium features?

Bilibili accepts various payment methods including credit cards, PayPal, and regional payment options depending on your location.

How do I change the video quality in the app?

Tap the quality indicator (usually 480p, 720p, 1080p) while watching a video to adjust the streaming quality based on your internet connection.

Conclusion

Successfully downloading and installing the Bilibili app opens up a world of Chinese content at your fingertips. With the methods outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can enjoy the full Bilibili experience on your preferred device, regardless of your location.

Next Steps:

Ready to explore? Start your Bilibili journey today and discover the amazing world of Chinese content, from anime and gaming to educational videos and live streams!

Last updated: 2025 | This guide is continuously updated to ensure the latest installation methods work correctly for international users.