APK vs AAB: Which Should You Use for Your Android App?

Learn whether to choose APK or AAB for Android app distribution and discover the benefits of each format.

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Choosing between APK (Android Application Package) and AAB (Android App Bundle) depends on your distribution needs. APK files are easier to install directly and ideal for sharing with users outside the Play Store. AAB, however, generates optimized APKs for different device configurations, improving app performance and reducing download size. For Play Store distribution, AAB is recommended as it supports dynamic delivery features, offering a better user experience.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is an APK file? An APK (Android Application Package) file is the file format used for distributing and installing applications on Android devices.
  2. What advantages does AAB offer? AAB (Android App Bundle) offers optimized APKs for various devices, reducing download sizes and improving app performance.
  3. Can I use both APK and AAB formats? Yes, you can use both formats depending on your distribution method; APK for manual installations and AAB for Play Store publishing.
  4. When should I use AAB instead of APK? Use AAB for distribution via the Play Store to take advantage of dynamic delivery features and optimize the user experience.