App to APK: How to Convert Your Installed Android Apps to APK Files 2023

As Android continues to be the most widely-used operating system globally, understanding its applications and file formats has become increasingly important. One of the essential file formats for Android apps is the APK (Android Package). This article will guide you through the process of converting an installed Android app to an APK file using various methods.

For More Details https://apkbol.com/apk-mirror-understanding-the-android-package-file-2023/

What is an App to APK?

An App to APK (Android Package) file is an app created for Android, Google’s mobile operating system. Some apps come pre-installed on Android devices, while others can be downloaded from Google Play. Apps downloaded from Google Play are automatically installed on your device, while those downloaded from other sources must be installed manually.

Typically, users never see APK files because Android handles app installation in the background via Google Play or another app distribution platform. However, many websites offer direct APK file downloads for Android users who want to install apps manually. In this case, you should be careful that you trust the source of the APK file, as malware can be distributed in APK files, just as it can with Windows and .EXE files.

Why Convert an App to APK?

There are various reasons why you might want to convert an installed App to APK file:

1. Backup and storage: Converting app to APK files allows you to create backups of your favorite apps and store them in your device’s offline storage. This way, you can reinstall the app without an internet connection.
2. App sharing: If you have an app that your friend wants but is not available in their region or requires a large download, you can convert the app to an APK file and share it with them via Bluetooth or any offline file-sharing application.
3. App modification: By converting an app to an APK, you can modify its contents and customize it according to your preferences.
4. Offline installation: If you have a collection of APK files, you can install them on your device without relying on an internet connection.

Extracting APK Files: Different Methods

There are several methods to convert an installed app to an APK file. In this section, we will discuss four popular methods that involve using file managers or dedicated apps.

Method 1: Using ES File Explorer

ES File Explorer is a popular file manager app among Android users. It allows you to extract APK files from installed apps with just a few steps.

1. Install ES File Explorer from the Google Play Store.
2. Open ES File Explorer and tap on the “App” option on the homepage.
3. You will see a list of all the apps installed on your Android device. Select the apps you want to convert to APK files and tap the “Backup” button.
4. The APK files will be saved in the “Backups” folder inside your device’s internal storage. You can access them by opening the “Internal Storage” and then the “Backups” folder.

Method 2: Using Solid Explorer

Solid Explorer is another file manager app that allows you to extract APK files from installed apps.

1. Install Solid Explorer from the Google Play Store.
2. Open Solid Explorer and slide the side panel by swiping the screen from left to right.
3. Scroll down the panel and tap on “Applications.”
4. You will see folders named “System Apps” and “User Apps.” If the APK you’re trying to extract is from a pre-installed app, go to the “System Apps” folder. If you installed the app yourself, go to the “User Apps” folder.
5. Long press the app you want the APK of and then hit the “Copy” button located at the bottom left corner.
6. Go to the folder you want to paste the APK file in and tap on the “Paste” button located at the bottom right corner.

Method 3: Using APK Extractor

APK Extractor is a dedicated app that allows you to extract APK files from installed apps. This method is the easiest among the ones listed here.

1. Install APK Extractor from the Google Play Store.
2. Open APK Extractor, and you will see a list of apps installed on your Android device.
3. Find the app you want to convert to APK and tap on it to save its APK file on your device’s storage.

Method 4: Using APK Share & Backup

APK Share & Backup is another dedicated app that allows you to convert installed apps to APK files and share them with other devices. This app does not require root privileges to function.

1. Install app from the Google Play Store.
2. Open APK Share & Backup, and you will see a list of installed apps on your device.
3. Select the app(s) you want to convert to APK files.
4. Press “Share” to share the APK with other apps like Gmail, Drive, Email, Bluetooth, and so on.
5. Press “Backup” to save the APK file to your SD card or external storage.

Enabling Installation from Unknown Sources

Before installing any APK files obtained using the methods mentioned above, you need to enable the “Unknown Sources” option on your Android device. This option allows you to install apps from sources other than the Google Play Store. To enable this option:

1. Go to your Android device’s system settings.
2. Open the “Security” section.
3. Enable the “Unknown Sources” option.

Now you can install the  files extracted from your installed apps.

Conclusion

Converting an installed App to APK file is a useful process that allows you to backup, share, and modify your favorite Android apps. By using file manager apps like ES File Explorer and Solid Explorer or dedicated apps like APK Extractor and APK Share & Backup, you can easily extract APK files and take full advantage of your Android device’s capabilities. Remember always to enable the “Unknown Sources” option in your device’s security settings before installing APK files and to verify the source of the APK files to avoid malware infections.