If the key is lost, you will not be able to access your application or update it.Ĭreating your own app requires you to create a new key store. Also, it is a good practice to keep multiple copies of your keys since they are your only gateway to your application.

The passwords should be at least six characters in length. All of the keys are stored in the key store.īoth the key store and the keys are protected by passwords of their own. The need for the keys usually arises when you have to update your application. Keys are used by the developer to access their application once it has been uploaded to the Play Store. Creating a New Key StoreĪssuming that this is the first time you’re creating a Signed APK file, you will have to create a new key store. You’ll be asked about your Key store path, Key store password, Key alias, and the Key password. In the next window, you will be shown the module (your application) for which the APK file is being generated.

Check the APK radio button and proceed to the next window. This opens up a screen where you have to select between creating an Android App Bundle and creating an APK file. To generate a signed APK file, open the Build menu from the toolbar and select Generate Signed Bundle/APK. The file is named app-debug.apk by default. If you miss the notification, you can still locate the APK file in the following path within your project folder: app/build/outputs/apk/debug. From that notification, select Locate and you will be led to the APK file location. Once the APK build is complete, you’ll receive a notification on the bottom right corner of your screen. Then, select Build > Build Bundle(s)/APK(s) > Build APK(s) from the toolbar menu.Īndroid Studio will take a few moments to generate an APK file. Generating a debug APK file is easy and is a matter of just a few clicks.įirst, open up your project or application that you want to import into an APK file.

Android studio apk tutorial