Back to APK Downloader

How to Install APK, XAPK, and OBB Files

Last updated: June 30, 2026

Manual package installation (commonly known as sideloading) is one of the most useful features of the Android operating system. Sideloading allows you to test newer versions before public rollout, run applications on alternative devices like Android TVs or PC emulators, and download region-locked software. This complete guide shows you how to quickly and safely install standard APKs, games with OBB files, and split architectures (XAPKs/APKS).

Note: Android blocks installation from unknown sources by default to protect your device. This is a standard security setting that you can easily configure for trusted apps.

1. Installing Standard APK Files

A standard APK file is a single package containing everything the application needs to run. Installing a standard APK involves enabling permissions and launching the package manager:

  1. Enable Unknown Sources:
    • Android 8.0 (Oreo) and newer: Download the APK using your web browser or transfer it to your device. When you tap to open the file, you will see a prompt saying your phone isn't allowed to install unknown apps. Tap Settings and toggle on Allow from this source for your browser or file manager.
    • Android 7.0 (Nougat) and older: Open your device's primary Settings, navigate to Security (or Lock Screen and Security), locate the Unknown Sources option, and toggle it on.
  2. Run the Installer: Open your browser's download folder or use a file manager application to locate the downloaded .apk file. Tap on the file and click Install.

2. Installing Games with OBB Data Files

Large applications (specifically graphic-heavy games) split their assets into a main program file (APK) and an auxiliary database container called an OBB (Opaque Binary Blob) file. Follow these steps to install games requiring OBB data:

  1. Install the Game APK: Run the standard installer for the game's .apk file first. Important: Do not open the game after the installation completes.
  2. Extract the OBB Zip: Locate the game's downloaded OBB folder (usually delivered as a compressed .zip or .rar file). Extract it using your device's built-in extractor or a utility tool like ZArchiver.
  3. Move the OBB Folder: Inside the extracted contents, look for a folder starting with "com." (for example, com.mojang.minecraftpe) containing the OBB database file (which has a .obb extension). Copy or move this entire folder to your internal storage path:
    Internal Storage > Android > obb
  4. Launch the Game: Once the folder is placed in the correct directory, open the game normally. It will load resources directly from the local OBB container.

3. Installing XAPK & Split APK (APKS) Files

Google Play frequently distributes applications using dynamic App Bundles rather than single files. Sideloading these bundles requires split-delivery packages (APKS or XAPKs) which contain multiple configuration APKs customized for screen densities, native processor types, and languages.

Because the default Android package manager does not natively handle combined multi-archive formats directly, you will need a helper utility:

  1. Install a Helper Tool: Download a free, trusted package manager utility from the official store (such as SAI (Split APKs Installer) or an XAPK Installer).
  2. Grant Storage Access: Open the helper utility and grant it "Files and Media" storage permissions so it can scan your download folders.
  3. Locate & Deploy: Inside the helper app, tap Install APKs, navigate to your downloaded .xapk, .apks, or combined .zip package, select it, and confirm the system prompt to complete the installation.

4. Installing APKs on Android TV & Fire TV

Installing apps on smart televisions or streaming sticks is an excellent way to get tools not available in the TV app store:

5. Sideloading Best Practices

To ensure your mobile system remains safe and stable while sideloading, keep these recommendations in mind: