Complete Guide: How to Backup and Restore Android Apps Using APK Manager & Installer

Have you ever wished you could keep a backup of your favorite apps before updating them? Or perhaps you want to preserve older versions of apps that work perfectly on your device? APK Manager & Installer makes this incredibly simple by allowing you to backup both regular APK files and modern app bundles, then restore them whenever you need.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn everything you need to master app backup and restoration on Android.

What You Need to Know Before Starting #

Understanding App Types #

Modern Android apps come in two main formats:

1. Regular APK Files

• Single file format (example: MyApp.apk)
• Older, simpler format
• Typically smaller apps
• Easy to share and install

2. App Bundles (Split APKs)

• Multiple files packaged together
• Saved as .apks files
• Modern format used by Google Play Store
• Contains device-specific optimizations
• Typically larger apps like Gmail, Chrome, Maps

File Formats Supported #

Part 1: How to Backup Your Apps #

Step 1: Open APK Manager & Installer #

1. Launch APK Manager & Installer on your Android device
2. First-time setup (Android 11+): You'll be asked to choose a backup location
   • Internal Storage: App-specific storage folder
   • SD Card: Custom location using Storage Access Framework
   • This is a required one-time setup - no default location is automatically used
   • You can change this location later in Settings
3. Grant storage permissions when prompted (required for saving backups)
4. You'll see your dashboard with a list of all installed apps

Step 2: Select Apps to Backup #

For Single App Backup:

1. Find the app you want to backup in the list
2. Tap on the app (single tap)
3. A bottom sheet will slide up from the bottom with options
4. Select Backup from the bottom sheet menu
5. You can search using the search bar at the top to quickly find apps

For Batch Backup (Multiple Apps):

1. Long press on the first app you want to backup
2. Selection mode activates and the app gets selected
3. Single tap on other apps you want to backup
4. Each tapped app will be added to the selection
5. A Backup button appears in the top app bar (right side)
6. Tap the Backup button to backup all selected apps at once

Helpful Filters:

• Use filters to view:
  • User Apps (apps you installed)
  • System Apps (pre-installed apps)
  • All Apps
• Apps with a "split" indicator are app bundles

Pro Tips:

• Use the search feature to quickly find specific apps
• Sort by name, size, or installation date using the sort menu
• You can select as many apps as you want for batch backup

Step 3: Backup Process Begins #

1. APK Manager & Installer starts the backup process

2. You'll see a loading indicator while the backup is in progress

3. Once finished, a confirmation message appears with one of these results:

   • Success: "Saved at [your chosen location]"
   • Partial success: "Some selected APK not saved" (if batch backup had issues)
   • Failure: "Something went wrong" (rare cases)

4. The backup files are saved with this naming format:

   • Regular APK: AppName_vVersion.apk
   • App Bundle: AppName_vVersion.apks (for split APK apps)

   Example: WhatsApp_v2.23.10.apk

What Happens During Backup:

For Regular APK:

• The app file is copied to your backup folder
• Process takes a few seconds per app

For App Bundles (Split APKs):

• All split APK files are collected
• Packaged into a single .apks file
• App icon is extracted and included
• Metadata is generated with app details
• Process takes 10-30 seconds per app

Step 4: Verify Your Backups #

1. Navigate to the Archived section (⋮ menu → Archived)
2. You should see all your backed-up apps listed
3. Each backup shows:
   • App icon
   • App name
   • Version number
   • File size
   • Backup date
   • Installation status (whether currently installed)

Part 2: How to Restore Apps from Backup #

Method 1: Restore from Archived List #

This is the easiest method and recommended for most users.

Step 1: Access Your Archived Apps #

1. Open APK Manager & Installer
2. Tap the ⋮ menu icon in the top app bar (top-right corner)
3. Select "Archived" from the menu
4. You'll see a list of all your backed-up apps with details:
   • App icon and name
   • Version number
   • File size
   • Backup date
   • Installation status (whether the app is currently installed)

Step 2: Choose an App to Restore #

Understanding the List:

• Apps are displayed with their original icon
• Version info helps identify which backup to use
• File format (APK/APKS) is indicated

Step 3: Install the App #

For a Single App:

1. Tap on the app you want to restore (single tap)
2. A bottom sheet will slide up with available actions
3. Select "Install" from the options
4. Follow the installation prompts

First-Time Installation Permission (Android 8.0+):

If this is your first time installing an app from APK Manager & Installer, Android will ask for permission:

1. A popup appears: "Allow APK Manager & Installer to install unknown apps?"
2. Tap "Settings" (redirects to app settings)
3. Enable "Allow from this source"
4. Press back and try installing again

This is a one-time setup for security. Once granted, APK Manager & Installer can install apps without asking again.

For regular APK Installation:

1. APK Manager & Installer's built-in installer activates
2. Android will prompt you to confirm the installation
3. Review app permissions and tap "Install"
4. Installation completes automatically
5. Tap "Open" to launch the app or "Done" to finish

For App Bundle (APKS) Installation:

1. APK Manager & Installer's advanced installer opens
2. It automatically handles split APK installation
3. All required app components are installed together
4. Wait for the installation to complete
5. Success message appears when finished

Step 4: Launch Your Restored App #

1. After successful installation, you'll see options:
   • Open: Launch the app immediately
   • Done: Return to archived list
2. Your app is now restored with the exact version you backed up

Method 2: Restore from File Manager #

If you've moved backup files or want to share them:

1. Open your device's File Manager
2. Navigate to your backup location (e.g., Android/data/com.apkgetter/files/ApkManager/ or custom SD card folder)
3. Find the backup file (.apk or .apks)
4. Tap the file
5. Select APK Manager & Installer or Package Installer when prompted
6. Follow the installation steps above

Understanding What Gets Backed Up #

Regular APK Backup Includes: #

✅ App installation file
✅ App version
❌ App data (settings, login info)
❌ App cache

App Bundle Backup Includes: #

✅ All split APK files
✅ App icon
✅ App metadata (version, package name)
✅ Device-specific optimizations
❌ App data (settings, login info)
❌ App cache

What About App Data? #

Important Note: APK Manager backs up the installation files only, not your app data. This means:

• ✅ You can reinstall the exact app version
• ❌ You'll need to log in again
• ❌ Settings will be reset
• ❌ Game progress won't be saved

To Backup App Data: Use All Backup & Restore for comprehensive data protection including contacts, messages, and calendar, or use Android's built-in backup feature for app data.

Advanced Features #

Batch Operations #

Backup Multiple Apps at Once:

1. Long press on the first app to enter selection mode
2. Single tap on additional apps to select them
3. Tap the Backup button in the top app bar (right side)
4. All selected apps are backed up sequentially
5. Loading indicator shows progress

Batch Delete Archived Backups:

1. Open the Archived section
2. Long press on the first backup you want to delete
3. Selection mode activates
4. Single tap on additional backups to add them to selection
5. Tap the Delete icon in the top app bar (top-right)
6. Confirm deletion in the popup dialog

Share Backup Files #

Want to share an APK with a friend?

1. Open the Archived section
2. Tap on the backup file (single tap)
3. A bottom sheet appears with options
4. Select "Share" from the menu
5. Choose your preferred sharing method (WhatsApp, Gmail, Nearby Share, Bluetooth, etc.)

Storage Management #

Where Are Backups Stored?

Backups are stored in the location you choose during first-time setup:

1. Internal Storage (App-specific folder):

   • Android 10+: App-specific external storage directory
   • Path: Android/data/com.apkgetter/files/ApkManager/
   • Accessible via file manager apps

2. SD Card (Android 11+):

   • Custom folder you select during first launch
   • Uses Android's Storage Access Framework (SAF) for secure access
   • You choose the exact folder location on your SD card

3. Manual File Access:

   • Navigate to your chosen backup folder using any file manager
   • Backup files are named: AppName_vVersion.apk or AppName_vVersion.apks
   • You can manually copy, move, or share these files

Changing Backup Location:

Need to change where backups are saved?

1. Open APK Manager & Installer
2. Go to Settings (⋮ Menu → Settings)
3. Find the "Storage Location" or "Backup Path" setting
4. Tap to choose a new location:
   • For Internal Storage: App will use app-specific directory
   • For SD Card: You'll select a folder using Android's folder picker
5. Confirm the new location
6. All future backups will be saved to the new location
7. Note: Existing backups in the old location won't be moved automatically

Storage Space Requirements:

• Regular APK: Same size as installed app
• App Bundle: Typically 1.5-2x installed app size (includes all variants)

Sorting and Filtering #

In Archived Screen:

• Sort by: Name, Date, Size
• Order: Ascending or Descending
• Tap the sort icon in the top app bar to access these options

Troubleshooting Common Issues #

Backup Issues #

Problem: "Something went wrong" or "Some selected APK not saved"

Possible Causes:

• Insufficient storage space
• Storage permission denied
• SD card removed or unmounted
• Backup location folder no longer accessible

Solutions:

1. Check available storage space - Ensure you have enough free space
2. Verify storage permissions: Settings → Apps → APK Manager & Installer → Permissions
3. For SD card users:
   • Ensure SD card is properly inserted and mounted
   • Re-grant Storage Access Framework permission if needed
4. Reset backup location:
   • Go to APK Manager & Installer Settings
   • Change backup location to internal storage
   • Try backing up again
5. If backing up multiple apps, try backing them up one at a time to identify which app is causing issues

Problem: Backup Location Not Accessible (Android 11+)

Common when SD card is removed or re-formatted

Solution:

1. Open APK Manager & Installer
2. If you get an error, the app will prompt you to choose a new location
3. Re-grant Storage Access Framework permission:
   • The system folder picker will open
   • Navigate to your desired backup folder
   • Tap "Use this folder" or "Allow"
4. APK Manager & Installer will remember this new location
5. If the problem persists:
   • Go to Settings → Apps → APK Manager & Installer → Storage
   • Clear Cache (not Clear Data - that will reset all settings)
   • Restart APK Manager & Installer and set up location again

Problem: "App Not Found in List"

Solutions:

1. ✅ Check filter settings (All Apps vs User Apps)
2. ✅ Use search function
3. ✅ Refresh app list (pull down to refresh)
4. ✅ Some system apps may be hidden for safety

Installation Issues #

Problem: "App Not Installed" Error

Common Causes & Solutions:

1. Insufficient Storage

• Free up space on your device
• Need 2-3x the app size for installation

2. Package Conflict

• Uninstall existing version first
• Or install as update if same signature

3. Invalid APK

• Re-backup the app
• Ensure backup completed successfully

4. Installation Blocked

• Enable "Install Unknown Apps" for APK Manager & Installer
• Go to: Settings → Apps → APK Manager & Installer → Install Unknown Apps → Allow

5. Incompatible Device

• Check minimum Android version requirement
• Some apps require specific CPU architecture

Problem: "Parse Error"

Solutions:

1. ✅ Backup file may be corrupted - re-backup
2. ✅ File was interrupted during backup
3. ✅ Storage media may be failing (SD card issue)
4. ✅ Download fresh copy if obtained from external source

Problem: "App Installed But Won't Open"

Solutions:

1. ✅ For app bundles, ensure all required components were installed
2. ✅ Check if app requires Google Play Services
3. ✅ Clear app data and cache after installation
4. ✅ Verify app is compatible with your Android version

Problem: Installation Gets Stuck

Solutions:

1. ✅ Wait at least 5 minutes (large apps take time)
2. ✅ Cancel and retry installation
3. ✅ Restart APK Manager & Installer
4. ✅ Restart device if persistent

Best Practices #

For Backing Up Apps #

1. 🔄 Regular Backups: Backup apps before major updates
2. 📂 Organize by Date: Use backup date to identify versions
3. 💾 Check Storage: Ensure adequate space before batch backups
4. 🔍 Verify Backups: Check archived list after backup completes
5. ☁️ Cloud Sync: Copy backups to cloud storage for safekeeping
6. 🗂️ Clean Old Backups: Remove outdated backups to save space
7. 📱 Use Batch Mode: Long press to select multiple apps for faster backups

For Installing Apps #

1. 🔌 Stable Connection: Ensure device isn't in power-saving mode
2. 💾 Free Space: Have 2-3x app size available
3. ✅ Verify Source: Only install backups you created yourself
4. 📱 Uninstall First: Remove existing app if installation fails
5. 🔒 Security: Keep "Install Unknown Apps" disabled when not in use
6. 📋 Note Versions: Keep track of which version works best for you

Storage Tips #

1. 📂 Use SD Card: For Android 11+, use SD card to save internal storage
2. 🗄️ Organize Folders: Create subfolders by app type if managing many backups
3. 💾 Compression: App bundles (APKS) are already compressed, no need to zip
4. 📤 Share Wisely: Only share APKs with trusted sources
5. 🔄 Regular Cleanup: Delete backups of uninstalled apps

Frequently Asked Questions #

Is it legal to backup APK files? #

Yes, backing up apps you've legally installed is legal for personal use. However, sharing copyrighted apps without permission is illegal.

Will backed-up apps receive updates? #

No, backup files are static versions. To update, install the app normally from its original source (Play Store), then backup the new version if desired.

Can I backup system apps? #

Yes, APK Manager & Installer can backup system apps, but reinstalling them may require root access. Be cautious with system apps.

What's the difference between APK and APKS? #

APK is a single file, while APKS is a bundle containing multiple split APKs optimized for different device configurations. Most modern apps from Google Play use the APKS format.

Can I install backups on a different device? #

Yes, but ensure:

• Device meets minimum Android version
• CPU architecture is compatible
• For app bundles, appropriate components are compatible

Do backups include in-app purchases? #

No, backups only include the app itself. In-app purchases are tied to your account and will be restored when you log in to the app.

How much storage do I need? #

As a rule of thumb:

• Regular APK: Same size as app
• App Bundle: 1.5-2x app size
• Batch backup: Sum of all selected apps

What happens if backup is interrupted? #

Partial backups may be incomplete. Delete and re-backup the app to ensure integrity.

Security Considerations #

Safe Backup Practices #

1. 🔒 Verify Permissions: Only grant necessary permissions
2. 🛡️ Scan Backups: Use antivirus to scan backup folder periodically
3. 🔐 Secure Storage: Keep backups in protected folders
4. 👥 Trust Sources: Only restore apps you backed up yourself
5. 📱 Device Security: Use device encryption for sensitive apps

Installing Unknown Apps Safely #

1. ✅ Enable "Install Unknown Apps" only when needed
2. ✅ Disable it immediately after installation
3. ✅ Only install from your own backups
4. ✅ Never install APKs from untrusted websites
5. ✅ Verify app signatures if sharing between devices

Use Cases #

Before Factory Reset #

Backup all your favorite apps before resetting your device. After reset, install them directly from backup without downloading from Play Store again. Saves time and mobile data, especially useful for large apps or slow connections.

Device Migration #

Moving to a new phone? Backup all APKs from old device, transfer them to new phone via SD card or cloud, and install without needing to re-download everything.

Keeping Older App Versions #

Prefer an older version of an app? Extract and archive it before updating. If the new version has bugs or unwanted changes, reinstall your backed-up version. Many users keep old versions of social media and messaging apps.

App Development & Testing #

Developers can extract their app builds for testing on multiple devices. Compare different versions side-by-side. Share test builds with beta testers without uploading to Play Store.

Archiving Discontinued Apps #

Apps sometimes get removed from Play Store. Archive them before they disappear. Keep access to apps that are no longer available for download.

Conclusion #

APK Manager & Installer makes backing up and restoring Android apps incredibly straightforward. Whether you're preserving older app versions, preparing for a device migration, or simply want peace of mind, this tool has you covered.

Quick Recap: #

To Backup Apps:

1. Open APK Manager & Installer (first launch: choose backup location)
2. Single app: Tap app → Bottom sheet opens → Select "Backup"
3. Multiple apps: Long press first app → Single tap others → Tap "Backup" button (top-right)
4. Wait for loading indicator
5. Confirmation message: "Saved at [your location]"
6. Files saved as: AppName_vVersion.apk or AppName_vVersion.apks

To Restore Apps:

1. Open APK Manager & Installer → Tap ⋮ menu (top-right) → Select "Archived"
2. View list with app icons, names, versions, sizes, and backup dates
3. Tap on backed-up app → Bottom sheet opens → Select "Install"
4. First time only: Allow "Install unknown apps" permission when prompted
5. For regular APK: Confirm installation → App installs
6. For App Bundle (.apks): Advanced installer handles split APKs automatically
7. Installation completes → Tap "Open" or "Done"

Key Takeaways: #

✅ Regular APKs are single files, quick to backup and install
✅ App Bundles (APKS) contain multiple optimized files
✅ Backups don't include app data - only installation files
✅ Always verify backups in the Archived section
✅ Keep adequate storage space available
✅ Practice safe installation habits

Now you're equipped with everything you need to confidently backup and restore your Android apps!

Download APK Manager & Installer #

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Master your Android app management with APK Manager & Installer - the complete backup and restoration solution that puts you in control.