Google is moving to adopt Android App Packages (AAB) as a new file format and bid farewell to the APK (Android Package) format. Starting in August 2021, this new file format standard will begin to apply to apps uploaded to Play StoreHowever, the AAB format only applies to new apps/games. Here's how to install Android app packages on Android.
An application package (AAB) installs only the files your phone requires to run a specific app or game. This means only the updated files, not all files, many of which may not be relevant to your phone.
Read the post to learn more about the new AAB files and the ways you can install app packages on Android phones. Let's check it out.
How are AAB files different from APK files?
First, let's take a deeper look at what AAB files are and how they differ from APK files. The AAB format helps app or game developers split their apps into multiple files and only download those files relevant to the Android phone requesting an update. AAB files also include important files from the original APK.
Then there are the installation files that comprise the various features of the app or game. When you download a standard APK file from the Play Store or any other source, it installs the entire APK.
The entire APK file includes the app's code and resource files such as images, audio, and the language pack. However, because developers are developing a universal app, not all files installed via APK may be compatible with all devices.
On the other hand, you do Android App Bundle By installing the basic APK, icons, and resource files required to run on a specific Android phone, this means lower data and storage usage.
Best Apps to Install AAB Files on Android Device
AAB files may seem like a nice and useful alternative to APK files due to their low data and memory usage. However, for many users, they can make sideloading a bit difficult.
To make it easier, we've listed five apps that will help you install AAB files on your Android phone. Note that AAB files are available in various formats, including .XAPK, .APKM, and .APK.
The good thing is that all of the applications below can handle almost any type of AAB file format. Let's check them out, one by one.
1. Install APKMIRROR
APKMirror is one of the best ways to install Android app packages on your Android device. It has a wide range of apps and games. Most importantly, these files are safe to install. In addition to regular APK files, you can use this installer to install .APK, .XAPK, and .APK app package files.
To download an Android app package file using APKMirror, you need to search for the app. Then, click the "Install Package" button. The AAB file will begin downloading and be installed on your Android phone using the installer.
2. Install the application package
App Bundle Installer is another alternative, where you can choose to install AAB files. Although the app is free, some ads may appear here and there. Furthermore, the app is still in its early stages. Therefore, you may encounter some bugs or glitches while using it.
The problem with using the App Bundle Installer is that it doesn't come with its own app repository. This means you first need to download the .AAB file to your Android phone. You can then use this installer to install the app on your device. The app's user interface is very minimal and uncluttered.
3. SPLIT APKS INSTALLER (SAI)
You can use the Split APKs Installer app to install .AAB files alongside others, including .APK, .XAPK, split APKs, and unencrypted .APKM files (from APKMirror). It's an open-source app that can also sideload .APK files to your Android phone.
4. PACKAGE MANAGER & SPLIT APK / APP BUNDLE INSTALLER
Package Manager & Split APK/App Bundle Installer is a powerful application that can handle multiple .AAB files. For some advanced features, such as uninstalling individual or group files, and enabling/disabling individual or group apps, you need to grant root access on your device.
But for all the basic things, including installing .AAB files, you can keep your device rooted. The app has a beautiful and clean menu interface. The app also lets you explore the contents of app package files, view app information, uninstall apps, and more.
Download Package Manager & Split APK
5.XAPKS Install
Last but not least, we have the XAPKS installer. You can use the XAPKS installer to install .APKs, .XAPKs, .APKMs, and .OBB files. It's worth noting that it doesn't have an app repository. You can also use it to install .AAB files from your phone's internal or external storage.
It also has a backup and restore feature that allows you to backup .APK and .AB files. XAPKS Installer also features a dark mode, which can display app features and installer dialogs. It is available for free on the Google Play Store.
New file format, some changes
Sideloading app packages is not an easy process. Fortunately, the apps mentioned above will allow you to do this quite easily on your device. Additionally, the .AAB file format saves data and storage space and provides more optimized downloads for the user by preventing unwanted files from being installed on your phone. Therefore, it's interesting to see if more developers will switch to app packages over standard APKs and what the future holds for .AAB files.
