An APK file is a file format used by the Android operating system and other Android-based operating systems for distribution and installation of mobile apps, mobile games, and middleware. APK stands for Android Package Kit, and it is also known as an Android Application Package. An APK file contains all the data an app needs, including all of the software programs code, 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. An APK file is analogous to other software packages such as APPX in Microsoft Windows or a Debian package in Debian-based operating systems.
APK files can be downloaded from Google Play or other websites that offer direct APK file downloads for Android users who want to install apps manually. However, users should be careful that they trust the source of the APK file because malware can be distributed in APK files, just as it can in the case of Windows and .EXE files. Android users typically don't see APK files, as Android handles the app installation process through Google Play.
