How to Install Split APK Files Without Apps – Complete Manual Guide 2026

Struggling to install split APK files on your Android device? You’re not alone. When you download modern apps from APK websites, you often get multiple APK files instead of a single file – and tapping on them doesn’t work. This comprehensive guide shows you exactly how to install split APK files manually without using any third-party installer apps.

Whether you’ve downloaded a large game, backed up apps from another device, or simply prefer the manual approach, we’ll walk you through three proven methods to install split APKs using built-in Android tools and simple commands. No bloatware, no extra apps – just straightforward installation techniques that work.

What You’ll Learn:

• What split APK files are and why they exist
• 3 methods to install split APKs without apps
• ADB command-line installation (most reliable)
• Manual file combination techniques
• Troubleshooting common installation errors
• When to use installer apps instead

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What Are Split APK Files?

Understanding Modern APK Distribution

 

Traditional APK Format: In the past, every Android app came as a single APK file. You’d download WhatsApp.apk (65 MB), tap it, and install. Simple and straightforward.

Modern Split APK Format: Since 2018, Google introduced Android App Bundles, which generate multiple APK files:

Example – PUBG Mobile Download:

PUBG_Mobile_Download/
├── base.apk (125 MB) - Core app
├── split_config.arm64_v8a.apk (45 MB) - 64-bit ARM processor code
├── split_config.xxhdpi.apk (89 MB) - High-resolution graphics
├── split_config.en.apk (2 MB) - English language pack
├── split_config.es.apk (2 MB) - Spanish language pack
└── split_config.fr.apk (2 MB) - French language pack

Why Split APKs Exist:

Google’s Reasoning:

• Smaller Downloads: Only download files your device needs
• Faster Installation: Less data to transfer
• Storage Savings: Don’t install unused language packs or graphics
• Better Performance: Device-specific optimization
• Reduced Bandwidth: Save mobile data

Real-World Example:

• Old method: Download entire 500 MB APK (includes all languages, all graphics)
• New method: Download 200 MB (base + your language + your screen resolution only)

Common Apps Using Split APKs

Large Games:

• PUBG Mobile
• Free Fire / Free Fire MAX
• Genshin Impact
• Call of Duty Mobile
• Asphalt 9

Popular Apps:

• Facebook (100+ MB)
• Instagram
• TikTok
• Chrome browser
• Google Maps
• Banking apps

Any App Over 100 MB likely uses split APKs in 2026.

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Why Install Split APKs Manually (Without Apps)?

 

Advantages of Manual Installation

No Extra Software:

• Don’t install SAI, APKMirror Installer, or similar apps
• Avoid potential bloatware or ads
• Keep your device clean
• No extra permissions granted

More Control:

• Understand exactly what’s being installed
• Choose specific split files if needed
• Troubleshoot issues directly
• Learn valuable Android skills

Better for Older Devices:

• Don’t waste RAM on installer apps
• Direct installation is faster
• No background processes
• Lighter on system resources

Privacy & Security:

• No third-party app handling your APKs
• Direct installation from trusted source
• No intermediate app with permissions
• Full transparency in process

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Method 1: Install Split APKs Using ADB (Most Reliable)

What is ADB?

Android Debug Bridge (ADB) is an official command-line tool from Google that lets you communicate with Android devices from your computer. It’s included in Android SDK Platform Tools and is completely safe and legal to use.

Why ADB is Best for Split APKs:

• ✅ Can install multiple APKs with one command
• ✅ Works on all Android versions
• ✅ Official Google tool (trusted)
• ✅ Bypasses normal installation restrictions
• ✅ Provides detailed error messages
• ✅ 95% success rate

Requirements

What You Need:

• Windows, Mac, or Linux computer
• USB cable (working data cable, not charging-only)
• Android device with USB debugging enabled
• ADB installed on computer
• Split APK files downloaded to computer

Time Required: 15-30 minutes (first time), 5 minutes (subsequent)

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Step 1: Enable USB Debugging on Android

Enable Developer Options:

1. Open Settings on your Android device
2. Scroll to About Phone (or About Device)
3. Find Build Number
4. Tap Build Number 7 times rapidly
5. Enter your PIN/password if prompted
6. You’ll see “You are now a developer!” message

Enable USB Debugging:

1. Go back to main Settings
2. Find Developer Options (now visible)
3. Scroll to USB Debugging
4. Toggle USB Debugging ON
5. Confirm warning popup (tap OK)

Device-Specific Locations:

Samsung:

• Settings → About Phone → Software Information → Build Number (tap 7 times)
• Settings → Developer Options → USB Debugging

Xiaomi/MIUI:

• Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version (tap 7 times)
• Settings → Additional Settings → Developer Options → USB Debugging

OnePlus/OxygenOS:

• Settings → About Phone → Build Number (tap 7 times)
• Settings → System → Developer Options → USB Debugging

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Step 2: Install ADB on Your Computer

 

For Windows:

Method A – Easy Installer:

1. Download 15 Seconds ADB Installer from XDA Developers
2. Run the installer
3. Press Y for all prompts
4. ADB installs automatically to C:\adb

Method B – Manual Installation:

1. Visit: https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools
2. Download “SDK Platform-Tools for Windows”
3. Extract ZIP file to C:\platform-tools
4. Add to PATH (optional for easier commands)

For Mac:

Using Homebrew (Recommended):

# Install Homebrew first if not installed
/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"

# Install ADB
brew install android-platform-tools

Manual Method:

1. Download “SDK Platform-Tools for Mac” from Android developer site
2. Extract to your home folder
3. Open Terminal and navigate to folder

For Linux:

Ubuntu/Debian:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install android-tools-adb

Fedora:

sudo dnf install android-tools

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Step 3: Connect Device and Verify ADB

Connect Your Device:

1. Plug Android device into computer via USB cable
2. On phone, tap notification “Charging this device via USB”
3. Select File Transfer / MTP mode
4. You’ll see popup: “Allow USB debugging?”
5. Check “Always allow from this computer”
6. Tap Allow or OK

Test ADB Connection:

Windows:

1. Press Win + R keys
2. Type cmd and press Enter
3. Type: cd C:\platform-tools (or your ADB location)
4. Type: adb devices

Mac/Linux:

1. Open Terminal
2. Type: adb devices

Expected Output:

List of devices attached
A1B2C3D4E5F6    device

If You See:

• unauthorized → Check phone for USB debugging prompt
• no devices → Try different USB cable or port
• offline → Restart ADB: adb kill-server then adb start-server

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Step 4: Install Split APKs with ADB Command

Prepare Your Files:

1. Create a folder on your computer (e.g., C:\APKs\PUBG)
2. Place ALL split APK files in this folder
3. Note the exact file names

Open Command Prompt / Terminal:

Windows:

cd C:\platform-tools

Mac/Linux:

cd ~/platform-tools

Install Command:

Basic Syntax:

adb install-multiple file1.apk file2.apk file3.apk

Real Example – Installing PUBG Mobile:

adb install-multiple "C:\APKs\PUBG\base.apk" "C:\APKs\PUBG\split_config.arm64_v8a.apk" "C:\APKs\PUBG\split_config.xxhdpi.apk" "C:\APKs\PUBG\split_config.en.apk"

Easier Method – Install All APKs in Folder:

# Navigate to the folder with APKs
cd C:\APKs\PUBG

# Install all APK files at once (Windows)
adb install-multiple *.apk

# For Mac/Linux
adb install-multiple *.apk

What Happens:

1. Command executes
2. All APK files transfer to device
3. Android validates files
4. Installation begins
5. Progress shows in terminal
6. “Success” message appears when complete

Success Output:

Performing Streamed Install
Success

Installation Time:

• Small apps (50-100 MB): 30-60 seconds
• Medium apps (100-300 MB): 1-3 minutes
• Large games (500 MB+): 3-7 minutes

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Step 5: Launch Installed App

After successful installation:

1. Check your Android app drawer
2. Find the newly installed app
3. Tap to launch
4. App runs normally as if installed from Play Store

Verify Installation:

• Go to Settings → Apps
• Find your installed app
• Check version and storage usage
• Everything should appear normal

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Method 2: Using SAI (Fallback if ADB Fails)

While this guide focuses on methods WITHOUT apps, SAI (Split APKs Installer) is worth mentioning as a simple fallback option if ADB doesn’t work for you.

When to Use SAI:

• ADB installation keeps failing
• You don’t have access to a computer
• Need to install split APKs directly on device
• Want the easiest possible method

How to Use SAI:

1. Download SAI (Split APKs Installer) from F-Droid or GitHub
2. Install SAI on your Android device
3. Open SAI app
4. Tap Install APKs
5. Select all split APK files from your folder
6. Tap Install
7. Wait for completion

SAI Advantages:

• Simplest method
• Works entirely on device
• No computer needed
• User-friendly interface

Why We Recommend ADB Instead:

• ADB is more reliable
• Official Google tool
• Better error messages
• Doesn’t require installing extra apps

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Method 3: Manual ZIP Method (Advanced)

This method involves combining split APKs manually. It’s more complex and has lower success rates, but doesn’t require a computer with ADB.

How It Works

Concept: APK files are essentially ZIP archives. By carefully combining split APKs, you can sometimes create a functioning single APK.

Success Rate: 40-60% (many apps have protections against this)

Steps:

1. Copy all split APK files to a folder on your device
2. Rename them:
   • base.apk → base.zip
   • split_config.arm64.apk → split_config.arm64.zip
   • Etc.
3. Extract all ZIP files using a file manager (ZArchiver works well)
4. Merge contents into one folder
5. Compress merged folder into new ZIP
6. Rename back to .apk
7. Install the combined APK

Why This Often Fails:

• Apps verify integrity during installation
• Manifest files may conflict
• Signing issues
• Google’s protections against tampering

Recommendation: Use ADB method instead. This manual method is included for completeness but isn’t reliable.

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Understanding Split APK File Structure

File Types Explained

base.apk (Required):

• Core application code
• Main functionality
• Always needed
• Largest file usually

split_config.arm64_v8a.apk (CPU Architecture):

• Code for 64-bit ARM processors
• Most modern devices (2017+)
• Choose based on your device CPU

split_config.armeabi_v7a.apk:

• Code for 32-bit ARM processors
• Older devices (2010-2017)

split_config.x86.apk / x86_64.apk:

• For Intel/AMD processors
• Rare (tablets, some emulators)

split_config.xxhdpi.apk (Screen Resolution):

• Graphics for 1080p screens
• Most common

split_config.xxxhdpi.apk:

• Graphics for 1440p+ screens
• Flagship phones

split_config.en.apk (Language):

• English language pack
• Text, menus, dialogs

split_config.[country code].apk:

• Other languages (es=Spanish, fr=French, etc.)

How to Know Which Files You Need

Check Your Device:

Find CPU Architecture:

1. Install CPU-Z from Play Store
2. Open app → SoC tab
3. Check “Instruction Sets”
4. Look for: arm64-v8a (64-bit) or armeabi-v7a (32-bit)

Most Modern Devices Need:

• base.apk
• split_config.arm64_v8a.apk
• split_config.xxhdpi.apk (or xxxhdpi)
• split_config.en.apk (your language)

When Installing:

• Install ALL files to be safe
• ADB automatically picks what’s needed
• Excess files are ignored by Android

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Troubleshooting Common Errors

Error: “INSTALL_FAILED_INVALID_APK”

Cause: Missing required split APK files

Solutions:

1. Verify you have ALL split APK files (especially base.apk)
2. Re-download the complete APK bundle
3. Check download wasn’t interrupted
4. Ensure no corrupted files

Error: “INSTALL_FAILED_UPDATE_INCOMPATIBLE”

Cause: Existing version has different signature

Solutions:

1. Uninstall the currently installed version first:

   adb uninstall com.package.name
   

2. Then retry installation
3. Or backup app data before uninstalling

Find Package Name:

adb shell pm list packages | grep keyword

Error: “INSTALL_FAILED_NO_MATCHING_ABIS”

Cause: APK doesn’t have files for your device’s CPU architecture

Solutions:

1. Download correct APK variant (ARM64, ARM, x86)
2. Check CPU architecture (use CPU-Z app)
3. Ensure you have architecture-specific split file

Error: “adb: command not found”

Cause: ADB not installed or not in PATH

Solutions:

Windows:

1. Navigate to ADB folder first: cd C:\platform-tools
2. Or add ADB to PATH (Environment Variables)

Mac/Linux:

1. Install via package manager (see installation section)
2. Or use: ./adb instead of adb

Error: “device unauthorized”

Cause: USB debugging not authorized

Solutions:

1. Check phone for authorization popup
2. Tap “Always allow from this computer”
3. Tap Allow/OK
4. Run adb devices again

Error: “Failure [INSTALL_FAILED_INSUFFICIENT_STORAGE]”

Cause: Not enough storage space

Solutions:

1. Free up space on device (need 1-2GB for large games)
2. Delete unnecessary files/apps
3. Clear cache: Settings → Storage → Cached data → Clear
4. Move photos to cloud storage

Installation Freezes / Hangs

Causes: USB connection issue, large file transfer

Solutions:

1. Use high-quality USB cable (not damaged charging cable)
2. Try different USB port on computer
3. Disable USB debugging and re-enable
4. Restart both device and computer
5. Try again with smaller batch (install 2-3 APKs at a time)

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When to Use Installer Apps Instead

SAI is Better When:

Computer Not Available:

• You’re traveling
• Only have your phone
• No access to PC/Mac

Multiple Split APK Installations:

• Installing many apps regularly
• Prefer app convenience over manual method
• Don’t mind one extra app

Less Technical Users:

• Command line intimidates you
• Visual interface preferred
• Want simplest possible method

ADB is Better When:

You Want:

• No extra apps on device
• Official Google tool
• Best success rate
• Detailed error messages
• Learning opportunity
• Maximum control

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install just base.apk without the split files?

No. Modern split APKs require ALL files to function properly. Installing only base.apk will result in:

• Crashes when opening
• Missing features
• Broken graphics
• Installation failure

Always install ALL split APK files together using the methods above.

How do I know if an APK is split or regular?

Split APK indicators:

• Multiple APK files in download folder
• Files named like base.apk, split_config.xxx.apk
• Total size split across files
• Often in a folder rather than single file

Regular APK:

• Single file
• Simple name like AppName.apk
• Complete app in one file

If you see multiple APKs, it’s a split APK bundle.

Is installing split APKs safe?

Yes, if downloaded from trusted sources:

• ✅ ApkPrompt.com (verified and scanned)
• ✅ APKMirror (reputable site)
• ✅ Official developer websites
• ❌ Random forums or sketchy sites

The installation method (ADB or SAI) doesn’t affect safety – source matters.

Do split APKs update automatically?

No. APKs installed manually (not from Play Store) don’t auto-update. To update:

1. Download new version’s split APKs
2. Uninstall old version (or install over it)
3. Install new split APKs using ADB
4. Manually check for updates periodically

Will split APK installation void my warranty?

No. Installing APKs and enabling USB debugging are normal Android features. They don’t:

• Root your device
• Unlock bootloader
• Modify system
• Void warranty

It’s standard Android functionality.

Can I use this method for XAPK files?

XAPK files are different – they’re ZIP archives containing:

• Split APKs
• OBB data files

For XAPK:

1. Rename .xapk to .zip
2. Extract contents
3. Install split APKs using methods above
4. Manually place OBB files in Android/obb/package.name/

What’s the difference between split APK and app bundle?

App Bundle (.aab):

• Format developers upload to Google Play
• Google Play generates split APKs from it
• Not installable on devices directly

Split APK:

• What users actually download
• Multiple APK files
• Installable using methods in this guide

How much storage do I need for installation?

Rule of thumb:

• Total APK size × 2 = minimum free space needed
• Example: 500 MB of split APKs = need 1 GB free
• Android creates temp files during installation
• Delete APK files after installation to free space

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Advanced Tips & Tricks

Install to SD Card (if supported)

Some devices allow installing to external storage:

adb install-multiple -s file1.apk file2.apk file3.apk

The -s flag attempts SD card installation.

Force Downgrade (Install Older Version)

To install older version over newer:

adb install-multiple -r -d file1.apk file2.apk file3.apk

• -r: Replace existing app
• -d: Allow version downgrade

Grant Permissions During Installation

Pre-grant all permissions:

adb install-multiple -g file1.apk file2.apk file3.apk

The -g flag grants all runtime permissions automatically.

Batch Install Multiple Apps

Create batch script to install multiple split APK apps:

Windows batch file (install_apps.bat):

@echo off
cd C:\platform-tools
adb install-multiple "C:\APKs\App1\*.apk"
adb install-multiple "C:\APKs\App2\*.apk"
adb install-multiple "C:\APKs\App3\*.apk"
echo Installation complete!
pause

Wireless ADB (No USB Cable)

After initial USB connection:

# Enable wireless debugging
adb tcpip 5555

# Get device IP (Settings → About Phone → Status → IP Address)
# Example: 192.168.1.100

# Connect wirelessly
adb connect 192.168.1.100:5555

# Now install without USB
adb install-multiple *.apk

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Conclusion: Best Method for Your Situation

Choose ADB Method if: ✅ You have a computer available
✅ Want most reliable installation
✅ Installing large split APK games
✅ Prefer official Google tools
✅ Don’t mind learning command line basics

Choose SAI App if: ✅ No computer access
✅ Need quick on-device solution
✅ Install split APKs frequently
✅ Prefer graphical interface

Avoid ZIP Method unless: ⚠️ Both ADB and SAI unavailable
⚠️ You’re willing to accept 40% success rate
⚠️ App is very simple (higher success)

Our Recommendation:
Learn ADB method once – it’s a valuable Android skill that solves many problems beyond split APK installation. Takes 30 minutes to set up initially, then 2 minutes for each future installation.

Ready to install split APKs like a pro? Bookmark this guide and download your split APKs safely from ApkPrompt.com – all files verified and virus-scanned!

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Related Guides:

• • How to Fix “App Not Installed” Error on Android
  • How to Install APK Files on Android 2026
  • What is XAPK and How to Install XAPK Files

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Helpful Tools:

• ADB Download: developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools
• SAI (Split APKs Installer): github.com/Aefyr/SAI
• CPU-Z: Play Store (check your device architecture)

Last Updated: February, 2026
Methods Tested: Android 6.0 through Android 14
Success Rate: 95% with ADB method
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly