How to Split APK Files Easily

A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

How to Split APK Files Easily will provide an explanation for it step-with the aid of-step. APK documents are applications used to put in apps on Android. Sometimes, you could need to break up an APK. This may be useful for builders, testers, or users with restrained storage. But many people do not know the way to do it. Don’t worry.

We’ll use easy phrases and easy steps. Even novices can comply with along. Let’s get commenced!

Using BundleTool (For Android App Bundles)

Google recommends this device. It facilitates developers turn .Aab into split APKs.

Step-by-Step:

Download BundleTool:

• Go to trusted site
• Download the .jar file.

Prepare Your AAB File:

• This is the brand new layout Google uses.
• You can build it the use of Android Studio.

Run the Command:

java -jar bundletool.jar build-apks \
–bundle=app.aab \
–output=output.apks \
–ks=yourkey.jks \
–ks-pass=pass:yourpassword \
–ks-key-alias=youralias \
–key-pass=pass:yourkeypass

Extract the APKS:

• After the process, you’ll get a .apks file. Rename it to .zip. Then extract it. Inside, you’ll find multiple split APKs.

Install with SAI:

• Use the Split APKs Installer (SAI) on your phone to install them.

Using Split APKs Installer (SAI) – Mobile Friendly

This is the easiest method for users.

Step-by-Step:

Download SAI:

• Get it from third-party stores like.

Get Your Split APK Files:

• You can extract them from an AAB the usage of BundleTool.
• Or download them from relied on assets.

Open SAI:

• Launch the app.

Tap “Install APKs”:

• Choose the split files (usually .apk format).

Install:

• It will deploy all of the split APKs together.
• That’s it! Very simple and works on most Android gadgets.

Using APKTool (For Manual Splitting)

This is for advanced users.

Step-by-Step:

Download APKTool:

• Visit trusted site

Set It Up:

• Place apktool.jar and apktool.bat in the same folder.
• Add them to your system path.

Decompile the APK:

apktool d your_app.apk

This breaks it into folders: smali, res, manifest, etc.

Manually Remove Features:

• You can delete unused resources, languages, or capabilities.

Rebuild Split Versions:

apktool b folder_name -o new_app.apk

Sign the APK:

• Use jarsigner or any APK signer.

Note: This method takes time and care.

Android Studio (For Developers)

If you’re building apps, Android Studio can generate split APKs.

Step-by-Step:

• Open Android Studio
• Go to Build Settings
• Choose Build > Generate Signed Bundle/APK
• Select APK
• Then click “Next”
• Enable APK Splitting
• Use alternatives like:
• Density-primarily based splitting
• ABI-based splitting
• Language-primarily based splitting
• Generate APKs

Now Android Studio will create multiple APKs based on your settings.

Why Would You Split an APK?

You might ask, why split it at all? Well, here are some common reasons:

File Size Is Too Big:

Some apps are big. Games specifically. These APKs may be over a hundred MB. Splitting them makes them simpler to manage.

Upload to Play Store:

Google Play has length limits. If your APK is just too massive, you should split it. Developers regularly use break up APKs to aid unique devices.

Save Space on Device:

Split APKs assist you to installation only what you want. This saves storage.

Share APK in Parts:

If your internet is gradual, sharing smaller elements is less complicated.

Work with Android App Bundles (AAB)

Google now makes use of AAB. This splits the APK into more than one documents mechanically. So, mastering a way to break up APKs is beneficial.

What Are Split APKs?

Split APKs are a set of APK files. They work together to install one app.

Usually, they include:

• Base APK: The middle of the app
• Config APKs: For language, display length, and many others.
• Feature APKs: Extra capabilities

Instead of one big APK, you get many small ones. They’re lighter and flexible.

Tools You’ll Need:

To split APK files, you’ll need the right tools. Here are some options:

• APKTool – Best for developers.
• BundleTool – Official tool by using Google.
• Split APKs Installer (SAI) – Easy cell app.
• WinRAR or 7-Zip – For viewing APK content.
• Android Studio – Useful for building and trying out.

Let’s look at how to use these tools one by one.

Important Notes About Split APKs:

Cannot Install One File Alone:

• You must install the base APK and all config files together.

Use SAI or ADB:

• Normal APK installers may fail.

Always Sign APKs:

• Unsigned APKs won’t install.

Backup Original Files:

• Mistakes can break your app.

How to Install Split APKs with ADB:

• If you’re using a PC and USB debugging, ADB can help.

Enable Developer Mode on Phone:

• Settings > About phone > Tap build number 7 times.

Install ADB Tools:

• Download from Android SDK or use platform tools.

• Connect Phone
• Run Command

adb install-multiple base.apk config.xx.apk feature1.apk

This installs all files together.

What Is an APK File?

APK stands for Android Package Kit. It is the document format used by Android to put in apps.

Think of it like a zip file. Inside it, you’ll find:

• App code (.Dex files)
• Resources (images, sounds)
• Manifest (app info)
• Libraries
• Certificates

An APK is sort of a complete field of the whole lot the app needs. When you put in an app, Android makes use of this document.

Advantages of Splitting APKs:

• Smaller Files – Faster downloads.
• Targeted Delivery – Only what users want.
• Better Performance – Less bloat.
• Easy Updates – Update simplest modified elements.
• Storage Saving – No unused code or property.

Disadvantages:

• More Complex – Needs more steps.
• Compatibility – Older gadgets may additionally warfare.
• Harder to Share – Users may not apprehend.
• Installation Errors – Must install all elements correctly.

Best Practices:

• Use Trusted Tools: BundleTool and SAI are endorsed.
• Always Sign APKs: Use the equal key for all splits.
• Test Before Sharing: Check if all parts set up and run smoothly.
• Use Android App Bundles: This is the future layout. Google helps it absolutely.
• Avoid Untrusted Sources: Split APKs may be misused. Stay safe.

Common Errors and Fixes:

Error	Reason	Fix
“App not installed”	Missing base APK	Install all files together
“Parse error”	Wrong format	Use SAI to install
“Signature mismatch”	Unsigned APKs	Sign all APKs properly
“App crashes”	Incomplete split	Rebuild APK set

Recommended: How to Debug APK Files

Conclusion

Splitting APK files isn’t hard. You simply want the right tools and steps. For builders, it enables with transport and length manipulate. For customers, it is able to shop area and make sharing less difficult. If you’re a beginner, use the Split APKs Installer (SAI). It’s simple and safe. Developers can go together with Android Studio or BundleTool for greater manage.

Always consider to check your APKs before installing. And make certain to sign them nicely.

Now that you understand the way to break up APK documents easily, you could control, installation, and proportion Android apps like a pro!