How to convert installed apps to APK files

You might be changing your Android or you’re just backing up all your 3^rd party apps; no matter the reason, you will need APK or the apps to be able to do so. Getting the APK of the apps that are installed in your Android is not that complicated, but it is not so straight forward either. This guide will help you with it. Here’s How to convert installed apps to APK files.

Convert Installed Apps to APK Files

But before we begin, let’s get a basic understanding of APK. Android Package or Android Application Package is a compressed file that consists of the data necessary for the app to run properly. The files inside it are extracted to the Android device to let the user run that particular app. Backing up the APK of an app doesn’t necessarily back up the data that was added after the user started using the app. You will only get the factory version of the app if you restore the backed up APK.

we can easily share the APK with other Android devices that are inaccessible to the internet and are in need of the app that you have installed. You back up all the apps on your Android and transfer it to your new phone. The app can be modified by modifying its APK.

There are a couple of methods you can use to convert an app to APK.

Methods to Convert Installed Apps to APK Files

1) Using a File Manager (CX File Explorer or X-plore File Manager)

Selected file management tools enable users to obtain APK files from installed applications.

Steps to Extract APK Files Using CX File Explorer:

• In Playstore search for CX File Explorer to install it.
• Scan to Apps from the side menu after opening the application.
• Choose the application from your list of apps that you want to extract its APK file format.

• By selecting Tap Backup you will store the APK file into the Backup folder of your internal storage area.
• X-plore File Manager serves as an alternative to extract APK files with a feature similar to this.

2) Using ML Manager (APK Extractor)

The tool ML Manager serves as an effective lightweight APK extraction software.

Steps to Extract APK Files Using ML Manager:

• Obtain the ML Manager application from the Play Store.
• The app showcases all installed applications on its interface.
• Select the application from the list that you wish to extract.
• The extracted APK will save itself within the ML Manager storage folder located in the device’s internal section.

3) Using APK Share & Backup

The APK Share & Backup application provides users with an efficient solution to extract APK files and share them with others.

Steps to Extract and Share APKs:

• Acquire Ideal APK Share & Backup application from the Google Play Store.
• Start the app and choose one or several applications.
• To save the APK file on your storage you must select Tap Backup from the app.
• To share the APK file you need to activate the Share option which allows sending through Bluetooth or email and cloud storage.

4) Obtaining APK Files from APKMirror combined with Aurora Store

APK files can be downloaded from APKMirror or Aurora Store when extraction is not possible.

Steps to Download APKs from APKMirror:

• Visit APKMirror on your browser.
• Search for the app you want.
• Download the latest APK version compatible with your device.

Warning: Avoid untrusted APK sites to prevent malware infections.

5) Enabling APK Installation from Unknown Sources

If you install APKs manually, you may need to enable this setting:

1. Open Settings → Security.
2. Enable Install unknown apps for the file manager or browser you’re using.
3. Proceed with installing your extracted APK.

Final Thoughts

Extracting APKs is useful for backing up apps, sharing them offline, or transferring them to another device. However, Android security updates have made this process more restrictive. Always use trusted sources and avoid modifying APK files unless you fully understand the risks.

YOU CAN ALSO READ:

What is APK file and how to install APK file?

How to extract APK files in Android?