If you use an Android device, such as a smartphone, laptop, netbook or tablet PC with the Android operating system installed, you have probably used APK files without realising it. As a user, you will not generally need to worry about Android APK files or have any real awareness of what they are, but developers for the platform do deal with them. Essentially, an APK file, or an Android Package file, is an Android application, or "app", which has been compiled and is ready to be installed and run on your device.
APK Creation
Android application developers create APK files, generating them as part of the development process. Most Android apps are developed in the Eclipse IDE, which can have a number of official plugins for Android installed, making it possible to develop, generate and ultimately release apps in the form of APK files. Once an Android project in Eclipse has been developed, executed, tested and is ready to be released, it can be exported in the form of an APK file.
In order to be released through Google's official Play store (previously Android Market), APK files must also be signed for security purposes. When an application has been signed and released through the store, it can only be updated using newer APK files which have also been signed using the same certificate, to verify that their origin is the same.
APK File Distribution and Acquisition
In the vast majority of cases, APK files are distributed and accessed by users through Google Play. Developers open accounts with the store, upload their APK files and choose publishing details including information for potential users and pricing choices.
Users of Android devices can access Google Play through a dedicated application which is typically installed on such devices when they are purchased. Using the Play app, users can browse applications by category or by searching for particular keywords and terms. Within each application listing users can read details, previous user reviews, comments and required system permissions for using the app.
Many apps are free, but some are downloaded at a set cost. If a user decides that they do not want to keep an app installed on their phone before the trial period ends, they can cancel the purchase. Whether an app is paid or free, users can decide at any time to uninstall it, again within the Play app.
APK File Installation and Use
When a user decides to download and install an app, Google Play and the Android system carry out the installation process. The APK file is initially downloaded onto the device, and the system then extracts the required information from this to install and execute the application. Once installed, users can use apps without needing access to the APK file, by simply browsing to the app listing in their device menu.
APK files can also be acquired through channels other than the official store, as there are other Web marketplaces for Android. Additionally, developers can install and run apps that are currently under development by copying the APK files onto their device, then using the Android system to install and run them. APK files are really only used within the installation process, and are not required when this is complete.
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