A Comprehensive Guide to Split APK Files Easily
This guide will show you how to split APK files easily. You don’t need to be a developer to do this. Anyone can comply with the stairs with the right gear. Let’s get commenced. Android apps typically come in the shape of APK files. These files are clean to put in and share. But every so often, they may be big in size. Or they may include distinct variations for extraordinary devices. In such cases, splitting APK documents turns into beneficial.
Splitting APK Using Android App Bundle Tool (BundleTool)
Download BundleTool:
Go to the official GitHub page and download the latest version.
It comes as a .jar file.
Get the App Bundle (AAB File)
App bundles generally have the .Aab extension. You can get those from builders or by using changing an APK to AAB.
Generate APKs:
Use this command in the terminal:
java -jar bundletool-all.jar build-apks –bundle=my_app.aab –output=my_app.apks –ks=keystore.jks –ks-key-alias=my-key-alias –ks-pass=pass:your-password –key-pass=pass:your-key-password
This will create a file called my_app.apks.
Extract the APKs:
Rename the .apks file to .zip and extract it.
Inside, you will see:
- base-master.apk
- config-xxhdpi.apk
- config-en.apk
- etc.
These are your split APKs.
Using APKTool to Split APK Manually
Download APKTool:
Go to trusted site and get the latest version.
Install Java:
APKTool needs Java to run. Make positive Java is mounted in your device.
Decode the APK:
Open your terminal or command prompt. Use this command:
apktool d my_app.apk
This will extract all resources and files.
Split Resources:
Go into the folder created. You will see different folders:
res/lib/assets/
You can now copy and flow files as wanted. Then rebuild each version the use of:
apktool b folder_name -o new_app.apk
This way, you create smaller APKs for specific use cases.
Using SAI App on Android
Install SAI:
Go to Google Play and look for Split APKs Installer (SAI).
Install it to your Android cellphone.
Open SAI:
Launch the app. Tap on “Install APKs”.
Select an APK or .apks/.zip File:
Browse to your file. You can select:
- Single APK
- Split APK set
- ZIP or APKS file
Extract or Install:
SAI lets you installation the break up APKs directly. Or you can extract them to a folder.
This is the perfect method for Android users.
What Is an APK File?
APK stands for Android Package Kit. It is the file layout used to put in apps on Android telephones and pills. When you down load an app from Google Play, you’re without a doubt getting an APK file.
Inside this file, you’ll find all the parts of the app. These include:
- Code
- Resources
- Images
- Sounds
- Manifest record
- And other property
Think of it like a ZIP file. It contains everything the app needs to work.
Why Split an APK File?
There are several reasons to split an APK file:
Reduce File Size:
Some APK documents are very huge. You might not need all the components. Splitting them allows reduce the scale.
Target Specific Devices:
Apps may additionally encompass code for distinct display screen sizes, CPUs, or languages. If you break up the APK, you could set up simplest what you need.
Faster Installation:
Smaller documents installation quicker. When you break up the APK, you shop time during set up.
Easy Sharing:
Smaller APKs are easier to percentage over Bluetooth, email, or messaging apps.
What Are Split APKs?
Split APKs are special from a unmarried APK file. Instead of one huge record, the app is damaged into smaller components. These parts are:
- Base APK: The center of the app.
- Config APKs: These preserve information for screen sizes, languages, or CPU kinds.
- Dynamic Feature APKs: Extra capabilities that can be established when wished.
Google uses split APKs at the Play Store. It installs simplest the elements your device needs. This is called App Bundles (AAB).
Tools You Can Use to Split APK Files:
You don’t want to jot down code to break up APKs. There are numerous equipment to be had. Here are the most popular ones:
APKTool:
APKTool is a free and open-source tool. It can decode and recompile APK documents. You can use it to investigate and split an APK.
Split APKs Installer (SAI)
This is an Android app. It lets you installation cut up APKs easily. You can also extract elements of an APK.
Android App Bundle Tool (BundleTool)
This is the professional device from Google. Developers use it to construct and split APKs. You can also use it to install or test apps.
RAR or ZIP Tools:
Since APK files are like ZIP documents, you can extract them using WinRAR, 7-Zip, or comparable equipment.
Extra Tips for Splitting APK Files:
Know Your Device Specs:
Before splitting, know your device’s:
- CPU (ARM, ARM64, x86)
- Screen resolution
- Language settings
This helps you keep only the needed files.
Use File Managers:
Some Android file managers aid APK splitting and extracting. Look for functions like ZIP extraction and file preview.
Always Backup the Original APK:
Before you make changes, keep a copy of the original file.
Test Your Split APKs:
After splitting, test the new APKs. Make sure the app installs and runs correctly.
Common Problems and Fixes:
- Problem: APK Won’t Install
- Solution: Make sure you installed the base APK along with the required config APKs. Use SAI for better results.
- Problem: App Crashes After Splitting
- Solution: You may have missed some needed parts. Double-check the files and try again.
- Problem: APKTool Error
- Solution: Make sure Java is up-to-date. Also, check if the APK is protected or obfuscated.
Safety and Legal Notes:
- Splitting APKs ought to be executed for non-public or educational use.
- Never share paid apps without permission.
- Avoid downloading APKs from untrusted sources.
- Be careful with adjustments—a few apps might also ruin.
Benefits of Splitting APK Files:
Let’s quickly look at why splitting APKs can be a great idea:
Saves Space:
You only install what you need. This saves internal storage.
Faster Updates:
You don’t need to download the full app every time. Only the updated part is enough.
Easier to Share:
Smaller APKs are faster to send and receive.
Better Performance:
Less bloat means your device runs better.
Full Control:
You can pick what features you want. No need to keep unwanted files.
Recommended: How to Create APK from Android Studio
Conclusion
Splitting APK documents may also sound technical, but it’s simply easy. With the proper tools, all of us can do it. Whether you’re using BundleTool, APKTool, or the SAI app, the method is simple to observe. The major benefit of splitting APKs is to save space and customise your set up. It additionally facilitates while you need to put in the same app on a couple of gadgets with one-of-a-kind desires. Always consider to again up your documents, check the entirety, and stay safe. Follow the rules and respect app licenses. By mastering this talent, you’re taking more manipulate over your Android revel in.
Start with simple APKs, practice splitting them, and see how it works. Over time, you’ll master this useful process.
