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APP Project Notes

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38 views13 pages

APP Project Notes

Uploaded by

brams
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as XLSX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Yes, you can make modifications to an APK through Android Studio, but it's not a straightforward process.

APK fi

1. Limitations of Modifying APK Files

Loss of Original Code: If you don’t have the original project source code (Java/Kotlin and XML files), you’ll be w
Legal Concerns: Ensure you have the rights to modify the APK, as reverse engineering apps you don't own ma
Complexity: Decompiled code may not map perfectly to the original source code, especially for obfuscated AP

2. Steps to Modify an APK

A. Decompile the APK

1. Use APKTool:

APKTool can decompile the APK to smali (a low-level representation of Java code) and XML files for modifica
Install APKTool: APKTool
Run:

bash
Copier le code
apktool d your_app.apk

This generates a folder containing the app's resources and smali files.

2. Use JADX:

JADX decompiles APKs to Java source code (closer to the original code).
Download JADX: JADX GitHub
Open the APK in JADX to view the decompiled Java files.

B. Make Modifications

1. Edit Resources:

Modify XML layout files or resources like strings, images, or icons in the decompiled folder.
For example, edit res/layout for UI changes.
2. Modify Smali Code (Advanced):

If you need to change the app’s functionality, edit the smali files.
Be cautious, as smali is not as readable or writable as Java.

C. Rebuild the APK

1. Recompile Using APKTool:

After making changes, recompile the APK:

bash
Copier le code
apktool b your_app_folder

The rebuilt APK will be in the dist folder.

2. Sign the APK:

Use jarsigner or a tool like APK Signer to sign the APK:

bash
Copier le code
jarsigner -verbose -sigalg SHA1withRSA -digestalg SHA1 -keystore my-release-key.keystore my-app

An unsigned APK cannot be installed on most devices.

D. Test in Android Studio (Optional)

1. Convert APK to Project:

Use tools like APK Studio to import the APK into a project structure similar to Android Studio.
Alternatively, import decompiled code manually into a new Android Studio project.

2. Recompile and Debug:

After making changes in Android Studio, build a new APK.


Use a device or emulator to test.
3. Best Practices

Retain Original Source Code: Always keep the original Android Studio project files to avoid reverse-engineerin
Use Open-Source Libraries: If the app includes external libraries, download their source code to modify direct
Test Thoroughly: Modified APKs can easily break, so test extensively to ensure stability.

4. Tools for Easier APK Modifications

APKTool: For decompiling and recompiling APKs.


JADX: For decompiling Java code from APKs.
APK Studio: A GUI-based tool for modifying APKs and viewing decompiled files.
Bytecode Viewer: For viewing and editing APK bytecode.

5. When Should You Modify APKs?

Lost Source Code: If you’ve lost your original project but have legal rights to the APK.
Minor Updates: For small fixes like changing resources or updating text.
Learning: To understand how Android apps work (use open-source APKs).
ightforward process. APK files are compiled binaries, and modifying them directly requires decompiling and reworking the code. Below

n and XML files), you’ll be working with decompiled code, which may not be as readable.
ng apps you don't own may violate copyright laws.
specially for obfuscated APKs.

and XML files for modification.


se-key.keystore my-app.apk alias_name

roid Studio.
o avoid reverse-engineering in the future.
urce code to modify directly.
reworking the code. Below is an overview of the process:
Here are some no-code app builders that allow you to build an app and download the source code (for free or with

1. Kodular

Description: A no-code platform specifically designed for building Android apps. It uses a drag-and-drop interface
Key Features:
Create fully functional Android apps without coding.
Allows you to export and download the source code for your app (AIA file).
Source Code Availability: Exports AIA files which can be opened in other platforms like MIT App Inventor.
Pricing: Free.
Website: https://www.kodular.io

2. Thunkable

Description: A user-friendly no-code platform for building apps for Android, iOS, and web.
Key Features:
Drag-and-drop interface.
Supports cross-platform app development.
Integrates with Google Sheets, APIs, and more.
Source Code Availability: You can download the source code (APK) for free. Source files might require a subscripti
Pricing: Free with limitations; paid plans for advanced features.
Website: https://www.thunkable.com

3. MIT App Inventor

Description: A classic no-code platform aimed at educators and beginners.


Key Features:
Open-source and free to use.
Build Android apps with a visual blocks-based interface.
Export source code for modifications.
Source Code Availability: Download AIA files or export Java source code for customization.
Pricing: Free.
Website: https://appinventor.mit.edu
4. AppGyver (SAP)

Description: A professional-grade no-code platform for building complex web and mobile apps.
Key Features:
Visual interface with advanced functionality.
Supports both Android and iOS development.
Integrates with APIs and databases.
Source Code Availability: Allows source code download, but might require premium access for this feature.
Pricing: Free for small businesses and personal projects.
Website: https://www.appgyver.com

5. Glide

Description: Specializes in building apps from spreadsheets like Google Sheets or Excel.
Key Features:
Ideal for utility or business apps.
No coding required; build apps visually.
Export progressive web apps (PWA).
Source Code Availability: Does not directly provide raw source code but offers downloadable app packages for se
Pricing: Free tier available.
Website: https://www.glideapps.com

6. AppyPie

Description: A popular no-code app builder with support for Android, iOS, and web apps.
Key Features:
Drag-and-drop interface for creating apps.
Multiple integrations with third-party services.
Source Code Availability: Offers source code download for a fee (not free).
Pricing: Free tier available but source code download may require a premium plan.
Website: https://www.appypie.com

7. Bravo Studio

Description: Turn Figma designs into fully functional mobile apps.


Key Features:
Integrates with APIs for dynamic functionality.
Build apps visually from design tools.
Source Code Availability: Limited free functionality; downloading source code may require premium access.
Pricing: Free tier available.
Website: https://www.bravostudio.app
e source code (for free or with minimal cost):

ses a drag-and-drop interface with blocks-based coding.

ike MIT App Inventor.

files might require a subscription.


mobile apps.

m access for this feature.

nloadable app packages for self-hosting.


require premium access.

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