App Package Formats to Release in AppGallery

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Context

Huawei AppGallery supports different application package formats depending on the operating system and distribution method. Developers can release HarmonyOS apps, Android apps, Quick Apps, or App Bundles through AppGallery Connect.

Description

There are four main package formats supported:

• APP (.app) for HarmonyOS native apps.
• APK (.apk) for Android apps.
• RPK (.rpk) for Quick Apps.
• App Bundle (AAB for Android).

Each format serves a different operating system or app type and affects how apps are distributed and installed by users.

Solution / Approach

• APP (.app)
  • OS: HarmonyOS
  • Distributed as HarmonyOS App Pack containing HAP modules.
  • Installed via AppGallery on HarmonyOS devices.
  • Currently, HarmonyOS only supports .app packages of API10 or later versions.
• APK (.apk)
  • OS: Android
  • Standard Android package format.
  • Available on AppGallery for Android devices.
• RPK (.rpk)
  • OS: Android
  • Quick Apps – installation-free apps.
  • Distributed via AppGallery and Quick App Center.
• App Bundle (.aab)
  • OS: Android
  • Similar to Google's AAB format.
  • AppGallery generates optimized app packages based on device features (reduces app size).

Key Takeaways

• Use .app for HarmonyOS apps.
• Use .apk or App Bundle for Android apps.
• Use .rpk for Quick Apps.
• App Bundle helps minimize download size by generating device-specific builds.

Additional Resources

• https://developer.huawei.com/consumer/en/doc/app/agc-help-release-app-prepare-0000002306311921
• https://developer.huawei.com/consumer/en/doc/app/agc-help-release-app-upload-pkg-0000002277983368

Written by Feyza Urkut