APKMirror Installer is an essential tool for Android users who enjoy sideloading applications. This handy app simplifies the process of installing various file formats such as .apkm, .xapk, and .apks, along with traditional APK files. If you ever encounter a problem while sideloading an APK, APKMirror Installer offers a valuable feature that provides detailed reasons for installation failures, helping you understand and resolve issues quickly.
Understanding Split APKs
In 2018, Google introduced App Bundles at Google I/O, revolutionizing app delivery. For a comprehensive understanding, consider checking out the detailed post on AndroidPolice, which includes helpful visuals. Essentially, before App Bundles, developers faced a choice between creating a single, bulky APK or managing multiple APK variants tailored to different device configurations (e.g., arm64 320dpi, x86 320dpi, arm64 640dpi).
With App Bundles, Google takes over the management of these variants, breaking down the app into multiple segments known as split APKs. A typical release might now include several files, such as base.apk, arm64.split.apk, 320dpi.split.apk, en-us.lang.split.apk, and es-es.lang.split.apk. However, installing these split APKs directly on your device can be problematic, as only the base APK can be installed, leading to crashes due to missing resources. This is where APKMirror Installer proves invaluable.
What Are .apkm Files?
As more apps transition to the split APK format, APKMirror has innovated with .apkm files to facilitate easy and secure sideloading. An .apkm file contains a base APK and multiple split APKs. After installing APKMirror Installer and downloading an .apkm file, you can tap on it or use the app to locate the file. APKMirror Installer allows you to view the contents of the .apkm file and choose which splits to install, helping you manage storage efficiently.
Developing APKMirror Installer and its supporting infrastructure required significant time and resources, which is why the app and site are ad-supported. For those who prefer an ad-free experience, various subscription options are available, offering additional features.
Issues and Bugs
Xiaomi/Redmi/Poco users running MIUI may encounter issues due to modifications in the Android system that affect split APK installation. A potential workaround involves disabling MIUI optimizations in the developer settings, which should allow successful installations. More information on this issue can be found on the APKMirror GitHub page.
For any other issues or bugs, users are encouraged to report them to the APKMirror GitHub bug tracker. It's important to note that APKMirror Installer is a file manager utility and does not include app store features like browsing websites or updating applications directly, in compliance with the Play Store Terms of Service.
