adb app control extended key install Overview This guide describes how to install an Android app package (APK) using ADB with extended key authorization—useful when installing signed packages, updating system apps, or running installs that require extra flags (e.g., granting permissions, test-only installs, or installing to specific users). It covers preparing ADB, generating or handling signing keys, using ADB install flags, and troubleshooting common issues. Prerequisites
Android device with Developer Options enabled and USB debugging turned on. ADB (Android Platform Tools) installed on your computer and accessible from PATH. USB cable or network ADB connection. The APK file to install. (Optional) Signing key (private key / certificate) if you must sign the APK with an extended key or use a custom installer that requires a specific key.
1) Connect to device
Plug device via USB (or ensure device and PC are on same network for ADB over TCP). Verify device is connected: adb devices adb app control extended key install
Expect device listed as "device". If "unauthorized", accept the prompt on the device.
2) Basic ADB install commands
Standard install: adb install path/to/app.apk adb app control extended key install Overview This
Reinstall/replace existing app while keeping data: adb install -r path/to/app.apk
Install to specific user (user 0 is primary): adb install --user 0 path/to/app.apk
3) Useful install flags (extended options) ADB (Android Platform Tools) installed on your computer
-r : reinstall and keep data -d : allow version code downgrade -t : allow test-only APKs -g : grant all runtime permissions at install --user <USER_ID> : install to specific user --full : install all split APKs and base (used by adb install-multiple variants) --instant : install as instant app (if supported) Examples:
adb install -r -d -g path/to/app.apk adb install --user 0 -r path/to/app.apk