Android app development - how to create an APK file

Now that we have developed an app, whats the fun without showing it off to our friends?

Most of us will be aware of what an .apk file means. According to wikipedia, Android application package file (APK) is the package file format used to distribute and install application software and middleware onto Google's Android operating system, and certain other operating systems, such as Blackberry 10 Devices with the OS version 10.2.1. For tech savvy people, here is the link which gives complete details about APK file format.

Here's how we create an .apk file from our Temperature Converter project. The same procedure may be followed for any other project.

Right click on the Temperature Converter project (the required project) from the project explorer and select export.

Select "Export Android Application" under the "Android" folder of the Export window.

Click Next in the Export Android Application window. This window checks if there are any errors in the developed application.

Now, we have to create a key for the application. Select Create new keystroke, select a location to save the keystroke and create a password for the key.

Give specific details about the key. Validity of the key is generally 25 years.

Click finish in the final window. Now, you have successfully exported the project to an .apk file. You can share this file with your friends. Just transfer this file to your android phone and install the file from your phone.