In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about APK files. We will show you what they are, what they are for, and the differences between APK files and Google Play apps. Additionally, we will look at some security-related issues and explain the procedure for installing your favorite apps from an APK file.
What is an APK file on Android?
APK is an acronym for Android Application Package. This file format packages all the components of an application, allowing it to be installed on a compatible operating system. Android supports APK files, meaning these files are compatible with smartphones, media players, smart TVs, and tablets.
APK files can be compared to other file packages that make it easier to distribute software. For example, in Windows, we have the APPX format, which is used to package programs and upload them to the Microsoft Store. In Linux, specifically Debian and Ubuntu, we use DEB files. Although many compare APKs to EXEs in Windows, this equivalence is not technically accurate because an EXE is an executable program, which may contain an installer or a portable application, and an APK is a file package.
Likewise, it is worth noting that an APK file can be easily opened with any compressed file manager, such as 7Zip or WinRAR. This is possible because it is essentially a compressed file that, instead of having the ZIP extension, has an APK one. Therefore, any user can easily extract the files within an APK to inspect them.
In addition to .apk, an application package on Android can have the extension .xapk, .apks, or .apkm.
What is an APK used for in Android?
An APK on Android serves two main purposes. On the one hand, it simplifies application distribution, grouping all the necessary components in a single file that can be sent in an email, a download link, or a WhatsApp message.
Simplied schematics of the folders contained in an APK
Furthermore, it also allows you to install the application it contains. Although we will talk about this later while showing you the exact procedure, to install an app, all you need to do is tap on the APK file. Android features a package installer that unpacks the file, extracts all the components, and installs them on the system. Thus, the application is installed, recognized by the system, and appears in the application drawer.
In addition to these two purposes, APKs also have other uses. For example, they help you make a backup copy of your favorite applications, allowing you to install them even if they disappear from the app store or the developer's website.
Differences between an APK and a Google Play Store application
Suppose for a moment that you download an application from the Google Play Store. Once you have it, you realize its developer provides an APK version on its official website. This is something that, for years, has been happening with well-known applications, such as WhatsApp. Even Telegram is currently still distributing the APK of its Android app. Which version is the correct one?
Usually, there is no difference between an official APK and the Play Store download. For example, you can safely install Google Maps from Malavida's servers or download it from the Play Store. In both cases, the result is the same: you get the official application on your smartphone. But is it safe to download APKs from the Internet?
Are APK files safe?
APK files are safe. In fact, the Play Store acts as a repository, an APK distribution platform. As we said above, there are no differences between an official APK file and its counterpart download from Google's app store. Despite this, you should be very careful about the sources you use to download APKs.
First, if you download an APK file to install an application, you must do so from a reliable source. For example, at Malavida, we scan all the APKs we offer from our servers and only publish them if they are safe. Obviously, you can also trust the APKs distributed by the developers on their website.
However, it is advisable to avoid downloading APKs modified by third parties, especially those that promise paid features for free. These packages may include malware that can infect your device and put your data at risk.
Finally, keep in mind that the Play Store is not exempt from security issues. In the past, it has distributed dangerous software. As is the case of PCs, when downloading an APK from the Internet, it is necessary to apply common sense when downloading files to avoid security problems.
How to install an APK file on Android
We are now at the end of this guide, so let us explain how to install an APK file on Android. You will soon realize that this is a simple process.
How to install an APK on your phone once downloaded from a reliable repository
Here are the steps to follow:
- Download the APK from a trusted source.
- Find the APK file with a file explorer. You can also open it straight from the browser if it allows you to do so.
- Tap on the APK.
- In the pop-up dialog, tap Install.
- Finally, open the application.
Now, you can enjoy the application you have just installed on your device.
