A brief guide that covers everything you need to know about installing .APKS files on Android

How to install a .APKS file on Android

.APKS is an archive of “split APKs”: one app package broken into several modules. The stock system installer can’t handle .APKS, so you need a specialized split-APK installer (for example, Split APK Installer (SAI) or APKMirror Installer). Keep in mind: menu names and paths can differ on Samsung, Pixel, Xiaomi, and other firmware.

What you’ll need

A .APKS file
A file manager or access to the “Downloads” folder
A split-APK installer (e.g., Split APK Installer (SAI) or APKMirror Installer)
Internet connection if required
Enough free internal storage

Steps

Move the .APKS file to your phone: download it to “Downloads” or copy via cable/cloud. Remember the folder.
Allow installing from unknown sources for the chosen installer: go to Settings → Apps → Special access → Install unknown apps and enable access for the installer app. The exact path may vary by device.
Install and launch the split-APK installer. Don’t remove it until the installation is fully finished.
In the installer, choose “Install from file,” select your .APKS, and grant storage/file permissions when asked so the app can read the archive.
Review the module list (base + splits): the installer will unpack them like a nesting doll — layer by layer, in the correct order.
If the installer offers to “re-sign” the package, read the note carefully: re-signing can break auto-updates and compatibility with versions from other sources. Use it only when necessary.
Start the installation and wait until it completes. On success you’ll see a confirmation, and the app icon will appear in the app drawer/home screen.
Open the app to make sure it works. Then return to settings and re-enable restrictions for unknown sources.

Pro tips

Download .APKS only from trusted sources. If Play Protect warns you, double-check the file and don’t disable protection permanently.
Check compatibility: Android version, CPU architecture (arm64-v8a, armeabi-v7a, x86_64), and bitness must match your device.
Free up space first: unpacking modules may temporarily require more storage than the archive size.
Don’t delete the installer app until the process completes without errors.
Respect license agreements and don’t attempt to bypass protection.

If something went wrong

Problem: “App not installed.” Solution: ensure all required modules are selected, you have enough storage, and the installer is up to date; reboot your device and try again.
Problem: “Package parse error.” Solution: the file is corrupted or incomplete — download the .APKS again and verify the extension.
Problem: Signature conflict/already installed from another source. Solution: uninstall the current version (data may be removed) and install the package again from the same source, or use a build with a compatible signature.
Problem: Not enough storage. Solution: clear cache, delete large files, reboot, then repeat the installation.
Problem: Android version or ABI mismatch. Solution: verify the minimum OS version and CPU architecture; use a build that matches your device.
Problem: Blocked by Play Protect. Solution: install only if you trust the source; if you proceed, allow it temporarily and turn protection back on right after.
Problem: Installation hangs. Solution: reboot the device, clear the installer app’s cache/data, and try again.

That’s it. If you follow the steps carefully, installing a .APKS is straightforward and predictable. Remember: menu names on your phone may differ slightly — follow the context and on-screen prompts.