APK files are related to Android OS. These files are Package Files that are utilized to add applications/apps to the operating system. Downloaded directly to the device via Store and installed. Formerly, we shared an article about unpack/repack APK files using the Formatter tool on Windows and Mac. Moving on, a lot has changed and there is a better – stable tool to manage and package APK files on Windows.
What are APK Files?
APK stands for “Android Application Package.” It is the file format used for distributing and installing applications on Android devices. APK files are essentially compressed archive files, similar to ZIP or RAR files, that contain all the necessary components of an Android app, including the code, resources, and assets. When a user downloads an app from the Google Play Store or another app store, they are actually downloading the APK file for that app.
Once an APK file is downloaded, it can be installed on an Android device by simply tapping on it. The device will then prompt the user to grant any necessary permissions before installing the app.
It is important to note that APK files can also be downloaded from third-party sources, which may not be reliable or trustworthy. Installing apps from unknown sources can put your device at risk of malware or other security threats. It is recommended to only download and install APK files from trusted sources.
Sign, Extract, Zip, Install, Compile, And Decompile APK Files
As the name explains it all – this FREE tool is a light application that enables users to manage, pack, repack, and sign APK files. APK Easy Tool works on Windows 7 and above. Java 8 and .Net Framework 4.7.2 are mandatory. After download and installation, the tool will automatically set up apktool.jar and other required working directories. This can be all reviewed from Options (menu bar). You can easily drag and drop files like any modern tool.
Key features include decompile and compile, sign/zip align, extract/zip APK, APK information, framework, logout, options, drag and drop apktool.jar version selector, and shortcuts. Jumplist shortcuts are available to quickly open decompiled, compiled, extracted, and zipped APK files. Windows Explorer shows exact selections.
As per XDA, there are some issues on Windows with APK filenames having Japanese and Chinese characters. Head out to the XDA thread to find out more about such issues and get some useful troubleshooting tips.
Download APK Easy Tool (android file host)
APK Easy Tool (softpedia.com)
