APKTool is a popular open-source utility designed for decoding and rebuilding Android application packages (APKs). It enables developers, security researchers, and enthusiasts to modify, analyze, and customize APK files.
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With its robust set of features, APKTool has become an essential tool for Android reverse engineering and app modification tasks.
Info | Details |
Rating | |
Developer | iBotPeaches |
Type App | Compiler and Decompiler APK |
Version | v2.11.0 |
Size | 22 MB |
System Operation | Windows MacOS Linux |
APKTool is a tool specifically built to decompile Android APKs into their source resources, such as XML files, images, and Smali code (a readable form of Dalvik bytecode).
Apktool Pictures
It also allows users to recompile the modified files back into a functional APK. This capability makes it ideal for tasks like app debugging, localization, customization, and vulnerability analysis.
Apktool Features
1. Decompilation of APKs:
APKTool converts APK files into easily readable and editable resources, including layouts, strings, and Smali code.
2. Recompilation of APKs:
After making modifications to the app, APKTool allows users to recompile the APK with the changes intact.
3. Resource Management:
APKTool can decode and reassemble XML files, images, and other resources while preserving the original app structure.
4. Smali Code Support:
It provides access to the app’s Smali code, enabling advanced users to analyze and modify the bytecode.
5. Automation:
APKTool supports automation through scripts, making it efficient for large-scale projects.
6. Multi-Platform Compatibility:
APKTool works across Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms, ensuring flexibility for various users.
Requirements to Run APKTool
Before using APKTool, ensure your system meets the following requirements:
a). Java Runtime Environment (JRE):
APKTool is a Java-based application, so it requires the latest version of Java to function. You can download Java from Oracle or use OpenJDK.
b). Android Debug Bridge (ADB):
While not mandatory, ADB is useful for debugging APKs directly on a connected Android device. You can download it as part of the Android SDK platform tools.
c). Operating System Compatibility:
- Windows: Requires a Windows 7 or newer version.
- macOS: Requires macOS 10.10 or later.
- Linux: Most major distributions (Ubuntu, Fedora, etc.) are supported.
d). APKTool Binary:
Download the latest APKTool binary and wrapper script from the official website.
Download Apktool
Please note that it is highly recommended to download Apktool through the source directly and this is only useful as an alternative Apktool link when you experience problems downloading the application from original source.
(Alternative Apktool Link)
(Official Apktool Link)
If you encounter problems with the Apktool such as broken download links, suspected programs that harm the device, requests for Apktool removal for copyright owners please send a message via the contact page, we will try to respond as soon as possible.
How to Install and Use APKTool
1). Download APKTool:
Visit the official site to download the APKTool binary (apktool.jar) and the wrapper script for your platform.
2). Set Up the Environment:
- For Windows: Place apktool.jar and the apktool.bat wrapper in the same folder. Add this folder to the system’s PATH environment variable.
- For macOS/Linux: Place apktool.jar and the wrapper script in /usr/local/bin or a similar directory.
3). Decompile an APK:
Use the command: apktool d file-name.apk
This creates a folder containing the decoded resources and Smali code.
4). Recompile an APK:
After making changes, recompile the APK with: apktool b folder-name
5). Sign the APK:
Recompiled APKs need to be signed using tools like jarsigner or apksigner from the Android SDK.
Old Version for Apktool
APKTool is a powerful and versatile utility for anyone involved in Android reverse engineering or app modification. With its ability to decode, modify, and recompile APKs, it serves a wide range of purposes, from debugging and localization to security analysis.
The following is all version Releases of APKTool you can download for free.
Apktool All Releases Version History
Apktool v2.11.0 | Jan 15, 2025 |