unable to install VPN app on Z Mini

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1st Official Post

    Hello,

    Unable install ProtonVPN or ExpressVPN on Z mini apparently storage of memory. It reads free up storage: 1.8gb of 5.4gb used. I was trying install through google play?

    Appericate any help.

    Regards

    I am going to answer my own question - It looks like Formuler USB-C Hub is probably I need. Tried network storage linking Z mini and my desktop it couldn't commuicate.

    • Official Post

    Hi,

    the install should not be the problem on Z mini, don`t know where the issue is. I use also VPN on Z mini but i sideload VPN always. in that case would be good to have some hub connected.

    No issues with VPN installs from Google play store.

    That said. Found the holy Grail trick. Get a travel router that. Glinet is very easy. $40 to $80 depending on model. Connect this to your main router. Creates its own network. Login to your VPN. Connect all boxes to that wifi network.

    I've had this setup for three months. Haven't changed the VPN location once. Much better performance using a VPN router vs VPN on the box doing the work.

    Quote from JonS04

    I am going to answer my own question - It looks like Formuler USB-C Hub is probably I need. Tried network storage linking Z mini and my desktop it couldn't commuicate.

    You can link windows samba shares to your nas. I have a raspberry pi 5 with openmediavault nas software.

    Vpn you can install via playstore.

    And or remove some apps first. And then install your vpn.

    Which vpn you have? Most times you can download the right version (AndroidTV) from the website of the vpn provider via pc. And sideload it.

    • Official Post

    Hi downing,

    could you post more infos about your mobile router, links to Amazon and photos?

    Thanks for your replies...

    I want to install ProtonVPN. I have installed this app in Z12 Ultra via Google Play Store without a problem.

    I received Formuler USB-C Hub this morning.


    I have 2 ScanDisk USB stick.


    I tried to installed ProtonVPN apk (TV android & TV f-droid (type types)) on Z Mini using Formuler USB-C Hub. Nothing is happening, file is not recognizing from the two usb stick.

    Also

    Gear > Settings > Device Preference Storage - under "Removable Storage" - message flickering between "ScanDisk Safely rejected" and "ESD-USB is safely rejected" This is even when the ScanDisk is in the USB hub.

    I have no other apps installed. I reads "1.6GB of 5.6GB used" (can't remember exact figures). So I have enough memory, right?

    In the TF slot what microSD card would I need/ you recommend?

    @downing3033 - yes if you can instructions but I haven't this router. I am aware other routers that maybe solve my problem.

    @Lucky133 - can you give me the link/instructions on how to?


    Thank you

    Simplest waybis to install it via google play store.


    alternative with usb:

    Your usb stick needs te be ntfs formatted first for sure on a pc.


    Proton vpn you can download from playstore and or

    https://github.com/ProtonVPN/android-app/releases/download/5.14.76.0/ProtonVPN-5.14.76.0.605147600.-production-vanilla-direct-release.apk


    Put downloaded apk on usb.


    Put usb in box and open mediabrowser, usb, and then the protonvpn apk.

    Edited once, last by Lucky13 (December 20, 2025 at 8:40 PM).

    Quote from JonS04

    Lucky13 - it didn't work. mediabrowser not recongizing in protonvpn apk.

    I tested it on my Z12 my friend. And it worked with mediabrowser??

    Put it directly in usb port on device! Not via a hub!

    Has the mediabrower the right rights? The usb is ntfs formatted?

    Try from playstore install "file manager plus" and give it the rights if it ask.

    You can also use the "storage analyse" and remove cache files! to free more space.

    Edited 2 times, last by Lucky13 (December 20, 2025 at 11:31 PM).

    I have attched picture how I set it up, let me know if it should be different.

    Does the mediabrower the right? I don't know, it is how I recieved it.

    I have formatted usb to ntfs. I have done this few times since you advised.

    Google PlayStore does not allow me install anything. Complaining device does not have enough storage.

    I have done the cache files removal number of times.

    Could factory reset be needed or something wrong with USB stick?

    • Official Post

    Your config is ok.

    1. Home menu -> Market -> Install TV File Commander first.

    2. Format your usb stick with ntfs and copy then the VPN apk on it.

    3. Connect with Hub and start TV File Commander, now under USB Stick you should find the VPN Apk, start with Install.

    SAM - Hi, unless I purpose to pay for TV File Commander to get hidden files, it did not find no file.

    I don't think am doing anything wrong but I do feel there is some wrong with the device. Perhaps restriction or bug.

    I have contacted the store where I purchase Formuler products, they offer support?

    Hello everyone,

    After factory reset I was able use Google Playstore and install the app.

    Z MINI is now able to read USB stick via Formuler USB-C Hub. It see avi, mp3 & apk. I didn't installed the .apk from USB stick.

    This thread mybe useful for someone else, who had same or similar problem.

    bye for now