If you have investigated the inner workings of Android, have you heard the term “APK”. Despite this, a newer definition, “Android App Bundle” (AAB), is becoming more frequent. Then, What is an AAB and does it replace APKs? Let's talk about it.
What is an Android application package?
As of August 2021, Google will require all Android apps published on the Play Store to use the format “android app bundle”. Previously, applications could use the AAB format or the old standard APK format.
Then, What exactly is an Android app bundle and how does it differ from an APK? An APK (android app bundle) it is essentially a specialized .ZIP file that includes all the files and code needed to run the application. Your device downloads all those assets, whether I need them all or not.
An AAB has all those same assets, but it also includes components called “dynamic functions” and “asset packages”. The advantages of these functions are causing Google to move away from APKs in favor of AABs.
An easy way to think of an application package is that it includes all the components to make an APK. When you download an application package from the Play Store, create the APK targeting your specific device.
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What are the advantages of AABs?
Android application packages have several advantages. First, AABs create smaller APKs. Since the package creates the application specifically for your device, all components may not be needed, resulting in smaller file sizes.
It is also not necessary to download all these components in advance. The concept of “dynamic delivery” it means you get a smaller starter app that you can download and install new features when you need them. Then, if you never use certain functions, not downloaded to your device.
In summary, the advantage of AABs is that they are simply more flexible and dynamic. The smallest file sizes, Easier initial downloads and components served as needed add up to smarter APKs.
Do application bundles replace APKs?
When Google announced that the Play Store would require Android app bundles instead of APKs, there was a common misunderstanding: Did this mean that you could no longer install APK on your device? No, absolutely.
Actually, as explained in the previous section, app packages create APK. The APK is what Android runs, but the AAB is what the developer uploads to the Play Store.
App bundles can replace APKs in Play Store, but not on android devices. You can still download APK files on your device as usual. Actually, you can also download AAB files. Rest assured, this is just a change to the Play Store, not in how Android as an operating system handles application files.
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