How to Extract APK from Installed App

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A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

How to Extract APK from Installed App

How to Extract APK from Installed App will learn different ways to extract APK files from installed apps. Have you ever had the desire to extract an APK file from an Android app that has been installed on your device? Maybe you want to share an app with a friend or keep a backup. Whatever the reason, extracting an APK is simple. There are no technical skills required. Simply adhere to the steps below.

Using a File Manager (No Root Required)

Most Android phones have a built-in file manager. It extracts APKs without the need for additional applications.

Steps to Extract APK Using a File Manager:

  • Open your File Manager app (like Files by Google, ES File Explorer, or Solid Explorer).
  • Go to Internal Storage > Android > data folder.
  • Some APKs are stored here.
  • Look for the app’s folder (e.g., com.whatsapp for WhatsApp).
  • Check if there’s a .apk file inside. If not, try another method.

Note: Some apps hide their APKs in protected folders. In that case, try the next methods.

Using APK Extractor Apps (Easiest Way)

If the file manager method doesn’t work, use an APK extractor app. This can be done by many free apps.

Best APK Extractor Apps:

  • (Simple & lightweight)
  • (Extract & share APKs easily)
  • (Batch export multiple APKs)

Steps to Extract APK Using an Extractor App:

  • Download an APK extractor app from the Play Store.
  • Open the app and grant storage permissions.
  • Select the app you want to extract.
  • Tap “Extract” or “Save”.
  • The APK will be saved in your Downloads or a dedicated folder.

That’s it! You can now share or backup the APK.

Using ADB (For Advanced Users)

ADB (Android Debug Bridge) is a powerful tool for developers. You can use it to extract APKs from any app, including system apps.

Steps to Extract APK Using ADB:

Enable USB Debugging:

  • Go to Settings > About Phone.
  • Tap “Build Number” 7 times to unlock Developer Options.
  • Go back to Settings > Developer Options.
  • Enable “USB Debugging”.

Install ADB on Your Computer:

  • Download ADB tools from the official Android website.
  • Extract the files to a folder (e.g., C:\ADB).

Connect Your Phone & Extract APK:

  • Connect your phone to the PC via USB.
  • Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac/Linux) in the ADB folder.
  • Type adb devices to check if your phone is connected.
  • Find the app’s package name by typing:

adb shell pm list packages

  • Locate the APK path with:

adb shell pm path com.example.app


(Replace com.example.app with the actual package name.)

  • Pull the APK to your computer:

adb pull /path/to/apk/file.apk

Now, the APK is saved on your computer.

Using Google Chrome (For Web APKs)

Some apps are installed as Chrome Web APKs (Progressive Web Apps). You can extract them too.

Steps to Extract Web APKs:

  • Open Chrome and type:

chrome://apps

  • Right-click the app and select “Open in Chrome”.
  • Check the address bar for the app’s ID (e.g., https://www.example.com).
  • Go to:

chrome://inspect/#apps

  • Click “Inspect” next to the app.
  • In the DevTools window, go to the Application tab.
  • Find the APK under “Service Workers” or “Manifest”.

This method is rare but useful for web-based apps.

Using Third-Party Websites (Alternative)

How to Extract APK from Installed App

You can download APKs from some websites if you don’t want to use apps or ADB.

Best APK Download Sites:

  • APKMirror (Safe & verified APKs)
  • APKPure (Large collection of APKs)
  • Aptoide (Alternative app store)

Warning: Only download APKs from trusted sites to avoid malware.

What is an APK File?

An APK (Android Package Kit) is the file format used by Android to distribute and install apps. It includes all of the app’s assets, resources, and code. The APK is downloaded and installed by default when an app is downloaded from the Google Play Store. But sometimes, you may need the APK file itself.

Why Extract an APK from an Installed App?

Here are some common reasons:

  • Save the APK in case you need to reinstall it later.
  • APKs can be sent to people who are unable to download them from the Play Store.
  • Some users extract APKs to tweak or mod them (requires advanced knowledge).
  • Transfer an app to a phone without internet access.

Now, let’s explore different methods to extract APK files.

How to Install an Extracted APK?

After extracting an APK, you may want to install it. Here’s how:

  • Go to Settings > Security.
  • Enable “Unknown Sources” (Allows APK installation).
  • Open the APK file and tap “Install”.

Done! The app will install like normal.

FAQs:

  • Is extracting APKs legal?
  • Yes, if you own the app. But redistributing paid apps is illegal.
  • Can I extract system apps?
  • Yes, but you may need root access for some.
  • Why can’t I find some APKs in the file manager?
  • Some apps store APKs in protected folders. Use ADB or an extractor app instead.
  • Can I extract APKs from an iPhone?
  • No, iPhones use IPA files, not APKs.
  • Do I need root to extract APKs?
  • No, most methods work without root.

Recommended: How to Install APK on Android

Final Thoughts:

How to Extract APK from Installed App download from installed apps is easy. You can use a file manager, an APK extractor app, or ADB. Choose the method that works best for you.

Remember:

  • Only extract APKs for personal use.
  • Avoid sharing paid apps.
  • Use trusted sources for APK downloads.

Now you know how to get APKs from any installed app. Try it yourself!

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