This is certainly an odd situation, given that Total Commander is a file manager and should be allowed to install APK files, just like Google’s own Files app or browsers such as Chrome are able to.

An APK file is a compressed file package similar to ZIP or RAR files. According to TechTarget , it consolidates all the assets, media, and code required to run the application on supported Android ...

Google is testing Material 3 Expressive components in a beta version of its Files app. Changes include centrally placed, redesigned floating buttons, larger thumbnails, and a new progress bar design.

That includes fun tools like an APK binary XML viewer, changing a file’s owner or group, MD5 support, and more. There is a free version labeled Explorer. However, it’s more for typical use.