OK - but is it safe?īecause of the way APK files are distributed and installed on a phone, there is a somewhat greater chance of the app being a security risk than when you use an official store. But this does not forgive copyright infringements or breaking the terms and conditions of the app contained in the APK file.

Huawei lost access to the Google Play Store in 2019 and has since used its Petal Search app to push owners towards APK files to get the apps its own store is missing.īecause it’s simply a file format, there are no legal issues with downloading and installing APKs. However, anyone who owns an Android phone can download and install apps using APK files, a practice often referred to as “sideloading.” These files are generally distributed through third-party repositories, although some companies also let you download official APK files directly. Normally, at least if you use Google Play, you’ll never have to deal with an APK file. APK stands for “Android Package Kit,” and it’s the file format used to install apps on Android. What is an APK?īefore we go much further, let’s talk about APK files.

Jaime Gonzalo, VP of Huawei Mobile Services Europe, and Fernando Garcia Calvo, Director of Huawei Petal Search Europe, to find out. Huawei’s warnings paint a clear pictureīut are these files equally safe, and what is Huawei doing to make sure you’re not being put at risk from malware, viruses, and data theft? Digital Trends spoke to Dr.

Google play store download apk files