What are APK files and why is there a need to download such files? APK files are meant for smartphones such as android phones. They're app files, and will be used to install applications on smartphones.

The most popular smartphones currently are, of course, android and ios apk mobile phones. Applications can be downloaded into these phones by way of a channel referred to as the Android Market. Android Market, a web page owned by Google, is a marketplace that distributes smart phone apps.

Often times, for some reason, mobile phone owners are not able to download apps directly from the Market. As an example, some models are not supported through the Market, so users cannot login and download directly. But this does not mean that the phone is incapable of running applications. Here is where APK files come in.

APK programs are really application files. In Windows, we are all acquainted with executable (EXE) files. They function in a similar manner. When you click on an APK file, you are launching the installer for the application. The app can then be installed directly on the device. So if you can't access the Android Marketplace for some reason, then your only option is to look elsewhere.

Obviously, for security reasons, you should only download and install these files from trusted sources. Before installing, ensure that your particular have modified your settings to allow app installations from unknown sources. So where can you find reliable app. files?

Such files may be created by making a backup of existing apps. Most free apps that are available publicly can be backed up into an APK file. The file may then be re-distributed to be installed on other smartphones. Some developers release APK installers for the benefit of all users. These files tend to be released in apps-related blogs and forums. You will find a great deal of APK installers in developer forums.

Quite often, an app could possibly be updated, causing the smartphone to crash. Consequently the updated app is no longer usable. Since you can not revert back to the older version (there is no option to do that), you will be forced to uninstall the new app and look for the old version. Even when you've got access to the Android market, the old version may no longer be available. This is the time to request or search for an APK file.