How to Extract APK Files from Installed Apps on Android in 2025

n 2025, Android users still find it useful to extract APK files from installed apps. Whether you want to back up an app, share it with others, or save it for later use, extracting APK files is an essential skill. Fortunately, extracting APKs doesn’t require rooting your device, and there are easy tools and methods available to get the job done.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to extract APK files from installed apps on Android in 2025 using simple techniques that anyone can follow.

Why Extract APK Files?

Extracting APK files can be useful in many scenarios:

  1. App Backups: Save a copy of your favorite apps to reinstall them later, even if they are removed from the Play Store.
  2. Sharing Apps: Send APK files to friends or family who don’t have access to the app.
  3. Offline Installation: Keep APKs for apps you need to install on devices without internet access.
  4. Access Older Versions: Preserve a working version of an app before updating to avoid bugs or unwanted changes.

Extracting APK files from apps you’ve installed is generally legal for personal use. However, distributing these APKs without the developer’s permission may violate copyright laws or the app’s terms of service. Always ensure that you’re adhering to local laws and regulations.

How to Extract APK Files from Installed Apps

Here are the best methods to extract APKs from your installed apps in 2025:

Method 1: Using a File Manager App

Modern file manager apps come with built-in features to extract APKs.

Steps:

  1. Download a File Manager App:
    Install a trusted file manager app like:
    • Solid Explorer
    • ES File Explorer (latest version)
    • X-Plore File Manager
  2. Locate Installed Apps:
    • Open the file manager app.
    • Navigate to the app directory, typically found under /data/app or /Android/obb (requires permissions).
  3. Extract the APK:
    • Select the app you want to extract.
    • Choose the “Export APK” or “Save APK” option. The APK file will be saved in your selected folder.

Method 2: Using APK Extractor Apps

APK extractor apps are designed specifically for extracting APK files from installed apps.

Best APK Extractor Apps in 2025:

  • APK Extractor Pro
  • ML Manager
  • App Backup & Restore

Steps:

  1. Download and install an APK extractor app from the Google Play Store or trusted sources.
  2. Open the extractor app.
  3. Select the app you want to extract from the list of installed apps.
  4. Tap “Extract” or “Save.”
  5. The APK file will be saved in your phone’s storage, usually under the APK Extractor folder.

Method 3: Extracting APKs via ADB (Advanced Method)

If you prefer a command-line approach, you can use ADB (Android Debug Bridge) to extract APKs.

Requirements:

  • A computer with ADB installed.
  • USB debugging enabled on your Android device.

Steps:

  1. Enable USB Debugging:
    • Go to Settings > About Phone > Tap Build Number 7 times to unlock Developer Options.
    • Go to Developer Options and enable USB Debugging.
  2. Connect Your Device:
    • Connect your Android device to your computer via USB.
  3. Open Command Prompt/Terminal:
    • Run the following command to list installed apps: bashCopyadb shell pm list packages
    • Find the package name of the app you want to extract (e.g., com.example.app).
  4. Extract the APK:
    • Run the following command to extract the APK: bashCopyadb shell pm path com.example.app
    • This command will show the path to the APK file.
    • Use the pull command to copy the APK to your computer: bashCopyadb pull /path/to/apk /desired/local/path
  5. The APK file will be saved on your computer.

Method 4: Using a Backup Tool

Backup apps can save both the app and its APK file for future use.

Recommended Apps:

  • Titanium Backup (requires root access).
  • Swift Backup (root optional for APK extraction).

Steps:

  1. Install a backup tool from the Play Store or a trusted APK site.
  2. Open the app and select the app you want to back up.
  3. Extract and save the APK file.

Where Are Extracted APK Files Stored?

Once extracted, APK files are typically saved in one of the following locations:

  • File Manager Apps: Look under the “Extracted APKs” or “Exported APKs” folder.
  • APK Extractor Apps: Check the app’s default storage directory, usually in the internal storage under a folder named after the app.

You can manually navigate to these folders using any file manager app.

Precautions When Extracting APK Files

  1. Avoid Modifying System Apps: Extracting APKs from system apps may cause issues with your device.
  2. Use Trusted Tools: Only use verified apps and tools to avoid malware.
  3. Do Not Distribute APKs: Unless you have permission from the developer, sharing APK files may be illegal.

FAQs About Extracting APK Files

1. Can I extract APK files without rooting my Android device?

Yes, all the methods listed above work on non-rooted devices. However, root access may be required for extracting APKs from system apps.

2. Does extracting an APK file harm the app?

No, extracting an APK is a safe process and does not alter or affect the app installed on your device.

3. Can I extract APKs from paid apps?

You can extract APKs from paid apps you’ve purchased, but sharing them is illegal unless explicitly allowed by the developer.

4. Can I edit the extracted APK file?

Yes, you can modify APK files using tools like APKTool or JADX, but this requires advanced coding knowledge and may violate app terms of service.

5. Is extracting APKs the same as backing up apps?

No, extracting APKs only saves the installation file, while backing up apps often includes user data and settings.

Conclusion

Extracting APK files from installed apps on Android in 2025 is easier than ever with the variety of tools and methods available. Whether you’re using a file manager, APK extractor app, or ADB commands, you can quickly save APK files for personal use. Just make sure to follow legal guidelines and avoid sharing APKs without permission.

If you found this guide helpful, share it with others or let us know your favorite APK extraction method in the comments below!

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