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    How to build an Android APK without Android Studio

    Written by the Fastshot team from the Fastshot user guides. Updated .

    Ask the agent to build a downloadable Android APK. Fastshot builds it on its own servers in usually about 7 minutes, with no Android Studio, Expo account or GitHub needed. On a computer scan the QR code with your phone; on a phone tap Download APK. Builds are part of the paid plans.

    Start building your app

    An APK installs directly on an Android phone. Fastshot builds it from your app’s current workspace.

    1. 1. Ask for the build

      Ask the agent to build a downloadable Android APK. The build uses the current app workspace, and GitHub and Expo accounts are not prerequisites.

    2. 2. Wait for the build

      While it runs, the build card shows “Usually takes about 7 minutes”. Queued does not mean completed: the card shows the job status.

    3. 3. Install the APK

      On a computer, scan the card’s QR code with the Android phone’s camera to open the install page, which downloads the newest APK. On a phone, tap Download APK. Android may ask you to allow installs from your browser.

    4. 4. Handle a failed build

      A failed build says what to do in plain words and has Retry. When the app’s own code failed to build, the agent starts fixing it in the chat by itself (once an hour per project).

    5. 5. Set the package name if you need one

      Every Android build uses the project’s saved Android package name, by default com.fastshot.<account>.<app>. To change it, ask the agent or save Package Name under App Configuration on the Android tab of the Publish view.

    Good to know

    • A direct APK does not require Google Play publishing credentials.
    • Every Android build gets its own version code, higher than the last one’s.
    • Most Android builds also make an AAB, the file Google Play takes; the finished card shows Download AAB when there is one.
    • Device compatibility is unconfirmed until the app is installed and tested on the device you care about.

    Frequently asked questions

    How do I build an APK without Android Studio?
    Ask the Fastshot agent to build a downloadable Android APK. It is built on Fastshot’s servers, so you need neither Android Studio nor an Expo account. Install it from the QR code or the Download APK button.
    How long does an APK build take?
    The build card says it usually takes about 7 minutes.
    Do I need a Google Play account for an APK?
    No. A direct APK does not require Google Play publishing credentials. Google Play is a separate option that needs its own setup.
    What if the build fails?
    The card says what to do and has Retry. If your app’s own code failed to build, the agent starts fixing it in the chat by itself, once an hour per project.

    Related: APK builder, APK maker, Publish to Google Play

    Next lesson: How to publish your app to Google Play

    Start building your app