Beginner 4 min read Updated: 2026-08-25

How to Install APK and Split APKs using ADB

Learn how to sideload applications, upgrade existing apps retaining data, allow version downgrades, and auto-grant runtime permissions.

Prerequisites & Requirements

  • APK or APKs file on your computer
  • Target Android device connected via ADB

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Standard Single APK Installation

Push and install the application package.

adb install app-release.apk
2

Reinstall & Upgrade Retaining User Data (-r)

Replaces an existing installed version while preserving databases and user logins.

adb install -r app-update.apk
3

Automatically Grant All Runtime Permissions (-g)

Awards all dangerous runtime permissions declared in manifest upon install without prompting user.

adb install -r -g app-release.apk
4

Install Split APK Bundles (adb install-multiple)

Installs modern modular split APK packages atomically.

adb install-multiple -r base.apk split_config.arm64_v8a.apk split_config.xxhdpi.apk