APK vs IPA — mobile app distribution basics
APK delivers Android apps; IPA delivers iOS apps. They differ mostly in sideload permissiveness and store gatekeeping.
Quick verdict
- Android app distribution → APK or AAB.
- iOS app distribution → IPA (the App Store is the main channel).
- Internal distribution → APK sideloads directly; IPA requires MDM or TestFlight.
Side-by-side
| Aspect | APK | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Android | iOS / iPadOS |
| Signing | Required; self-signing works | Apple Developer Program signing |
| Sideloading | Permitted via settings | Normally blocked (TestFlight, MDM) |
| Off-store distribution | Common | Very constrained |
| Internals | ZIP with DEX + resources | ZIP with a .app bundle |
Development notes
- Google Play Console now expects AAB; APK is for direct distribution or compatibility.
- An iOS app ≠ a single IPA — TestFlight and production builds are separate IPA artifacts.