---
title: apps-using-the-app-users
url: https://developer.polkadot.com/apps/using-the-app/users/
word_count: 477
token_estimate: 732
version_hash: sha256:3b4fdcd7f4572f97870a090786a7da255105b5798b5f2f2db6888c95908c35ae
last_updated: 2026-11-11T12:33:14+00:00
---

# Get started as a user

The Polkadot app holds your account on your own device. With it you can claim a
username, top up and send CASH, chat with your contacts and open apps that
people have built for the Polkadot Products Devnet.

The app is self-custodial. Your keys are created and stored on your device, and
nothing is signed until you approve it.

!!! warning "Never enter a real seed phrase"
    Never type a recovery phrase that holds real value into a devnet build, and
    never share your recovery phrase with anyone.

!!! note "Paseo Next v2"
    This page covers the PCF Products Devnet (`devnet` preset). For Paseo Next v2 (`paseo` preset), see [Get the Polkadot App](../index.md#get-the-polkadot-app).

## Install the app

These are devnet builds. The Polkadot releases on Google Play and the App Store
connect to a different network and do not work with these docs.

| Platform | Where to get it |
| --- | --- |
| Android (recommended) | [join the tester group](https://appdistribution.firebase.dev/i/f3b79521380b40b9) to get each new build automatically |
| Android (manual APK) | the [latest Android release](https://github.com/Polkadot-Community-Foundation/polkadot-android-community/releases/latest) |
| iOS (TestFlight) | [join the TestFlight beta](https://testflight.apple.com/join/HnBX59vz) |
| Desktop (macOS / Windows / Linux) | the [latest desktop release](https://github.com/Polkadot-Community-Foundation/polkadot-desktop-community/releases/latest) |
| Web gateway (no install) | <https://dev-dot.li> |

On Android, the tester group is the easiest route. Accept the invitation with a
Google account and you are notified of each new build.

To install by hand instead, take `app-polkadot-devnet.apk` (~200 MB) from the
latest release and allow installs from unknown sources. The same APK runs with
or without Google Play services.

iOS builds are only distributed through TestFlight. The first build of each
version reaches the group once Beta App Review approves it.


If you only want to open a few apps, you can skip the install and use the web
gateway at [dev-dot.li](https://dev-dot.li) in any browser. For an on-device
account, payments and signing, install one of the apps above.

## What to do next

Work through these guides in order:

1. [Create an account & get funds](create-account.md). Create or
   import an account and fund it.
2. [Back up & restore your account](back-up-your-account.md). Save
   the recovery phrase and turn on the cloud backup before you need them.
3. [Get & use CASH](get-and-use-cash.md). Top up your balance and
   send some to someone.
4. [Username & proof of personhood](username-and-personhood.md).
   Claim a readable name to use instead of a long address.
5. [Discover & open apps](discover-and-open-apps.md). Find apps in
   Browse and open them by their `.dot` domain.
6. [Messaging & calls](messaging-and-calls.md). Chat with and call
   your contacts.