Description: An App Bundle is a publishing format that includes all the compiled code and resources of an application, but differs in the generation and signing of APKs for app distribution. This approach allows developers to package their application more efficiently, optimizing the download and installation size on various devices. Instead of creating a single APK file that contains all resources and code for all device configurations, the App Bundle allows distribution platforms to generate and deliver optimized APKs for each specific device. This means that users only download the resources and code they actually need, reducing storage usage and improving user experience. Additionally, the App Bundle facilitates the implementation of features like on-demand downloads and delivery of specific resources, allowing developers to better manage their application content. This format has become a recommended standard by major distribution platforms for distributing applications, thus promoting better efficiency and performance in the mobile application ecosystem.
History: The App Bundle was introduced by Google in 2018 as part of its effort to improve application distribution on mobile platforms. Before its implementation, developers primarily used the APK format, which did not optimize application size for different devices. With the launch of the App Bundle, app stores began offering a more efficient way to package and distribute applications, resulting in a significant reduction in download sizes and an improved user experience.
Uses: The App Bundle is primarily used for application distribution on digital marketplaces, allowing developers to optimize their application sizes and enhance user experience. It is also used to implement features like on-demand downloads, where resources are downloaded only when needed, and delivery of specific resources for different device configurations.
Examples: A practical example of using App Bundles is the messaging app WhatsApp, which uses this format to reduce download size on mobile devices, ensuring that users only get the resources needed for their specific device. Another example is the game app PUBG Mobile, which also benefits from optimized resource delivery through App Bundles.
