How to Convert .AAB to .APK on Windows and macOS

Introduction

When using Expo’s EAS Build, the output is an .aab (Android App Bundle) instead of an .apk. However, .apk files are often needed for local testing and sharing. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to convert .aab to .apk using simple commands on Windows and macOS.

Prerequisites

Java Development Kit (JDK) installed (for bundletool.jar).
The .aab file generated from Expo EAS Build.
Android SDK (adb) installed for testing.

Step 1: Download `bundletool.jar`

Download Google's official BundleTool:
👉 Download bundletool.jar

Save it to an accessible location, e.g., Downloads.

Step 2: Generate the APK from .AAB

Run the following command:

java -jar bundletool.jar build-apks --bundle=myapp.aab --output=myapp.apks --mode=universal

This creates a .apks archive containing the .apk file.

Step 3: Extract the APK

Rename the .apks file to .zip and extract it. You’ll find your .apk inside the universal folder.

Alternatively, extract it via command line:

unzip myapp.apks -d myapp_apks

Find the APK at:

myapp_apks/universal.apk

Step 4: Install the APK on Your Device

To install the APK, connect your Android device via USB and run:

adb install myapp_apks/universal.apk

Conclusion

You’ve successfully converted an .aab to an .apk for testing! 🎉