APK stands for Android Package (sometimes Android Package Kit or Android Application Package). This is the file format that Android uses to distribute and install applications, including free app installs. An APK contains all the elements that an application needs to be properly installed on your device. It's like a .exe file used to install software on a Windows PC or a package installer (PKG) for Mac.
Some apps come pre-installed on Android devices, while others can be downloaded from Google Play. Applications downloaded from Google Play are automatically installed on the device, while those downloaded from other sources must be installed manually. Downloading an app with APK is sometimes filtered apps that personalize your Android experience, or some other Android apps that don't load on the Google Play Store for some reason.
The Google SDK for Android is a set of tools that developers use to write applications on devices compatible with Android. It's often referred to as an application, but it's actually more like an application container because it contains all the resources, permissions, and code needed to install and run an application.
What Does All This Mean? TLDR
- APK is an Android App install kit.
- Using APK allows you to access updated Google Play Store apps prior to widespread release.
- Using APK allows you to install non-Google Play Store apps.
Understanding what an APK is means vastly expanding your app portfolio, both in Google Play Store and beyond. Knowing how to use APKs can help you customize your Android experience and access apps that may not be available in the Google Play Store. Just make sure you download from a secure source like Crazy APKs.
