what apk

An APK file is a file format used by the Android operating system, and a number of other Android-based operating systems for distribution and installation of mobile apps, mobile games, and middleware. It is analogous to other software packages such as APPX in Microsoft Windows, .app on HAP for HarmonyOS, or a Debian package in Debian-based operating systems. An APK file contains all of a programs code (such as .dex files), assets, and resources. To make an APK file, a program for Android is first compiled using a tool such as Android Studio or Visual Studio, and then all of its parts are packaged into one container file. APK files can be generated and signed from Android App Bundles. All Android apps, including those downloaded from the Google Play Store or downloaded manually, use APK files. Developers who create applications for use on Android devices must compile their application into the APK format prior to uploading it to Google Play, the official marketplace for Android applications. APK files are also a variant of Java Archive files. Android users typically don't see APK files, as Android handles the app installation process through Google Play. However, other websites may offer direct APK file downloads for users to install apps manually.