What Is an APK File?

A file with the APKfile extensionis a package file used to distribute apps on Google’sAndroid operating system.

Or, if you see it, enableInstall Unknown AppsorUnknown sources.

Person looking at an Android smartphone with an APK file on the screen

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APK is considered anexecutable file extension.

Take caution when opening an APK file from a source you’re unfamiliar with.

See ourlist of the best Android emulators for Windowsfor suggestions likeBlueStacks.

SeeHow to Get Android Apps in Windows 11for some other methods.

It works on Windows and macOS.

iOS apps are stored in a format that uses theIPA file extension.

(Try one from ourBest Free Zip & Unzip Programslist.)

Doing that, however, doesn’t let you actuallyusethe app on a computer.

Renaming a file like this isn’t how you perform a real conversion.

FAQ

Yes, unfortunately, APK files can sometimes harm devices.

Only download from sites you know and trust to minimize the possibility of a fraudulent program infecting your unit.

APK is just a file format like the EXE or ZIP.

Google developed the format, but anyone can create and use APK files.

Locate APK files on your gadget by using anAndroid file managerto search for the file.

Some mobile devices come with a preloaded file manager, but many alternatives are in the Google Play Store.