How to Install APK and OBB Files on Android Smartphones in 2022

Geeky android smartphone users should know what android APK (Android Package) files are but this information is not limited to them only, APK and OBB Files is nothing new when it comes to Android smartphones. APK (.apk) and OBB Files are simply raw form of an android smartphone app since we mostly download our android phone apps via google playstore. APK and OBB Files are expressed when they come from other source other than Google Play Store.

What is an OBB File?

OBB is the abbreviation of Opaque Binary Blob. OBB is a compiled code that developers use to contain encrypted data needed for the APK file to function. OBB file usually contains most of the graphics and media that aren’t found on the APK file.

OBB files are unique to each APK file. For instance, FIFA 2014’s OBB will not work on the APK file of FTS 2018. Although both apps require the presence of OBB and data files, they are unique to each one.

Steps on How to Install APK and OBB files

For you to install APK and OBB file in your android smartphone, the phone user must have downloaded the APK and OBB files. 

Note: You won’t get the OBB file on the Google Play Store.

How to install APK on Android

1. After the APK file must have been downloaded, the next step is to install it. You can follow the following guidelines:
2. Allow installation of apps from unknown sources under Security in the Settings menu. If this isn’t done, the installation of the app will be restricted because it wasn’t downloaded from Google Play Store.
3. Proceed to install the app from the folder where it’s located.
4. After installation, do not open the app just yet. This is because the OBB file isn’t in place, hence, you’ll get an error message if you try opening the app.
5. Once installed, you’ll move on to placing the OBB file in the right location.

How to install OBB files on Android

1. First off, the OBB file needs to be extracted from the zip file before any moves can be made. PCs can extract it easily, then it can be sent to the phone. Also, the use of apps such as ES File Explorer or WinRar can help in this extraction process.
2. Once it’s extracted, it needs to be placed in the folder named OBB under Android in the internal memory. If the internal memory isn’t big enough, the external memory can be utilized.
3. Select file directory (Internal/SD)
4. Choose Android folder
5. Create/Select OBB folder
6. Paste OBB  file folder or create one
7. Put your OBB file right there
8. If the folder isn’t there, it can be created before you paste the file there.
9. In cases where it is a Data file, a Data folder will be created under the same Android folder in the File Explorer.
10. Once it’s in this location, the app can now be launched successfully without hassles.