How To Extract Apk Files | Guide 2023
We all know that Android smartphones are basically tiny computers in our pockets. When we download apk files, we wonder, how to extract APK files that are advantageous for installing apps on Android devices. In most cases, you will not need to extract these files as the Play Store will do it for you when you install an app. However, there may be times when you need to extract them, and you do know how to extract APK files!
So, do you have an Apk file on your mind that you really want to extract but don’t know how? Or maybe you’re curious about what’s inside that Apk file? In this blog post, we will explore how to extract apk files, so that you can get a peek at the inner workings of your favorite Android apps.
How To Extract APK Files From Phone
While there are many ways to solve the query of how to extract APK files, we will explore the simplest and most straightforward methods below. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to learn how to extract Apk files like a pro!
Also: If you are having trouble installing apk files, this comprehensive guide has problems to all possible errors.
File Extractor APK
If you only intend to extract either one or two Apk files, downloading apps with features you won’t use may seem unnecessary. As a result, using the Apk Extractor application instead might be in your best interests.
Follow these steps to learn how to extract Apk files on your Android device using this app:
- On your Android device, launch the Apk Extractor application.
- Select the Apk file you want to extract.
- When asked, click “Save.”
It’s really as simple as that. However, the application shows various banner ads, which may be the only disadvantage of using this method.
File Explorer
Another method for extracting Apk files on Android is to use File Explorer, a free file managing application. This app is indeed very commonly used by Android users who want to arrange all of their files and apps.
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This app is accessible on the Google Play Store. Once downloaded, here’s how to extract Apk files on your preferred device:
- Open the File Explorer application on your Android device.
- On the main page of the app, select “Apps.”
- Next, choose the Apk file you want to extract. At this point, you can also choose to select multiple files.
- Click “Backup” in the bottom navigation bar.
- Select “Open” to see the extracted applications.
These instructions will direct you to the location on your Android device where your extracted applications and files are stored.
AirDroid
AirDroid is a free application that lets you organize your Android applications and files from a pc browser.
The app is simple to install via the Google Play Store. Afterward, you’ll need to create your free account. To do so, make sure that your Android and pc are connected to a similar Wi-Fi network. To connect your phone to your pc, follow the on-screen directions.
Once the connection is established, proceed with the following steps to learn how to extract Apk files from your Android device to your computer:
- Open AirDroid on your Android device and click “AirDroid Web,” then copy the IP address that appears.
- Launch your preferred browser and type “IP address” into the search bar.
- Next, select which Apk files you want to extract.
- Click the “Download” icon at the bottom of the screen.
When this is finished, the Apk files will be downloaded to your pc in zip format.
Google Play Store
This method, unlike the others in this guide, enables you to extract Apk files straight from the Google Play Store. Because the file is extracted directly from the Google Play Store, there is a small chance of infected files being present.
To learn how to extract Apk files through this method, follow the steps below:
- Copy the link of the application you wish to extract from the Google Play Store.
- Then, in your browser, navigate to this web tool and paste the URL there.
- Click on “Generate Download Link.”
This web application will then extract the Apk file and give you the appropriate link to access it. The only downside to this approach is that the web application might display a few pop-up ads. But apart from that, this technique is completely safe and straightforward.
Via Online Sources
Although using applications to extract Apks can be helpful, they are not necessary. You can simply install them online instead. Yet how to extract Apk files from pc online sources on your Android? All you have to do is conduct a simple search on Google for the wanted application name followed by “Apk.” In most scenarios, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for pretty fast.
This tactic can save you a significant amount of time, particularly when only a single file is needed. However, it is critical that you only download files through legitimate websites. An ideal place to start looking is via a site like ApkMirror.
On Rooted Android Device
If you have a rooted Android, you won’t need to download any third-party apps to extract Apk files. The procedure is relatively simple, requiring only a simple directory to function. Here’s how to extract Apk files on a rooted Android device:
- Navigate to the “File Manager” app that is already installed on your Android.
- After that, enable “Root Access.”
- When prompted, navigate to the mentioned directory, based on your Android version: 1. /data/app 2. /data/app-private 3. /system/app/
Winding-up
In case you’ve never done it before, extracting Apk files might seem a little challenging at first. However, once you’ve found the technique that works best for you, the method becomes relatively simple.
If you want to extract Apk files to your phone or tablet, the File Explorer method is your safest bet. However, if you want to extract the files to your desktop, you should use AirDroid.
If you’re simply looking for a single Apk file, you should go straight to your web browser and search for it there. By using the recommended tools and taking the time to follow the proper steps, you can ensure that your Apk file extraction goes smoothly.
