What is an APK file in Android?

APK stands for Android Application Package file. It is the ZIP file formatted package used by the Android Operating System to distribute and install mobile apps. APK files are based on the JAR or ZIP file format with the file name extension “.apk” and mainly used for installing application softwares including games and other apps. They are archived files, specifically intended to be installed on Google’s Android Operating System. For making an APK file, a program for Android Application is compiled and then it is completely packaged onto a single file. It contains all the details including program code, resources, certificates, assets and other related files. An APK file can be downloaded and installed on Android powered devices easily.

How to install APK file in Android?

  • Step 1: You can install APK files from your mobile browser, go to the link and download the required application.
    OR
    Open Google play store and search for ES File Explorer and install the same.
  • Step 2: Download the required APK (Android application file).
  • Step 3: Open the ES File Explorer application which is newly installed. It will be showing all the folders in the mobile.
  • Step 4: From the Downloads folder, find the name of the APK downloaded and click on it. It will be installed after selecting the particular app name.
  • Step 5: While installing the application, if you get any errors saying, security check need to be checked in the privacy settings, please enable them from your mobile’s security settings.

For this, go to Menu-> Settings-> Security-> and check for “Unknown Sources” to allow your phone to install apps from other sources.

It’s simple and easy, Check for the Application in your device, and Enjoy using it!