APK
APK (Android Package Kit) is the file format used by the Android operating system for distributing and installing mobile applications. It contains all the necessary components of an app, including code, resources, assets, and manifest files, packaged into a single archive. Developers build APK files to deploy their apps to Android devices through app stores like Google Play or direct installation.
Developers should learn APK creation and management when building Android apps, as it's essential for testing, distribution, and deployment. Understanding APK structure is crucial for debugging, optimizing app size, and ensuring security, especially for tasks like reverse engineering or analyzing third-party apps. It's also necessary for manual app installations, beta testing, and enterprise deployments outside official stores.