APK File Structure: Manifest, DEX, Resources and Inspection
An APK is an Android application package containing code, a manifest and resources. Use Android Studio’s APK Analyzer or the apkanalyzer command to inspect its structure without installing the app.
Choose what you need
Inspect an APK with the official analyzer
Open the APK in Android Studio’s APK Analyzer, or use the SDK apkanalyzer tool. The analyzer exposes file sizes and structured views for DEX code, the manifest and resources.
For example, apkanalyzer files list app.apk lists members, while apkanalyzer manifest print app.apk prints a readable manifest. Keep the package unchanged while inspecting it.
What the main APK members mean
AndroidManifest.xml declares application configuration. Classes.dex and any additional DEX files hold compiled Android code. Res, resources.arsc and assets contain different resource representations; lib can contain architecture-specific native libraries.
An archive extractor may expose binary compiled members without decoding them. A text editor showing unreadable manifest bytes does not mean the APK is corrupt.
Extraction is not a complete source project
Extracted files do not automatically reproduce the developer’s source, build configuration or dependencies. Editing and repacking can invalidate the signature and prevent updates. Use the original project for supported rebuilds and protect the signing identity.
For installing rather than inspecting, use the APK opening guide. For bundles containing multiple APKs or expansion data, use the XAPK, AAB and OBB guides.
Frequently asked questions
Is AndroidManifest.xml always plain text in APK?
It can be compiled binary XML. Use APK Analyzer or a suitable decoder rather than judging it through a plain-text editor.
Can extraction give me the original Android project?
Not necessarily. Compiled code and resources do not guarantee the original source, dependencies or build setup.
Sources and further reading
Opening routes checked against the references below on October 11, 2026. Device menus, software support and protection policies can change.