AAR File – What is .aar file and how to open it?

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AAR File Extension

Android Archive – file format by Google

AAR (Android Archive) is a file extension used for an archive file format developed by Google for Android. It is similar to a JAR file but specifically designed for Android development and distribution of reusable libraries and resources.

Definition of an AAR File

An AAR file (Android Archive) is a compressed archive file format specifically designed for Android development. It serves as a packaging and distribution mechanism for Android library projects, which contain reusable code and resources that can be integrated into other Android applications. AAR files provide a modular approach to Android development, allowing developers to easily reuse and share code components between projects.

Structure and Purpose of AAR Files

AAR files have a hierarchical structure, similar to JAR (Java Archive) files. They contain compiled Java class files, Android resources (such as layouts, images, and strings), and an AndroidManifest.xml file that defines the library’s metadata and dependencies. By packaging these elements together, AAR files enable the efficient distribution and use of Android library projects. Developers can include AAR files as dependencies in their Android applications, allowing them to access the functionality and resources provided by the library. This modularity enhances code reusability, reduces duplication, and simplifies project maintenance.

Using Android Studio

To open an AAR file in Android Studio, follow these steps:

  1. Install Android Studio from the official website.
  2. Open Android Studio and create a new project.
  3. Import the AAR file into your project by clicking on “File” > “New” > “Import Module.”
  4. Select the AAR file from its location and click “OK.”
  5. The AAR file will be imported as a module in your project.

Using Java Tools

You can also open an AAR file using Java tools. Here’s how:

  1. Install the Android SDK from the official website.
  2. Open a terminal or command prompt and navigate to the directory containing the AAR file.
  3. Run the following command to extract the AAR file:


zip -x <aar-file-name>.aar

This will create a new directory containing the contents of the AAR file.

AAR File Format

An AAR (Android Archive) file is a packaged resource bundle used in the distribution and reuse of Android library modules. It encapsulates code, resources, and manifest information necessary for integration with Android applications. AAR files adhere to the ZIP (Zipped Archive) format, allowing for efficient compression and storage. They serve as a convenient means to share and manage reusable components within Android development.

Benefits of Using AAR Files

The use of AAR files offers several advantages:

  • Code Modularity: AAR files enable the encapsulation of library code into reusable modules, promoting code reuse and modularity in Android applications.
  • Faster Development: By leveraging pre-built library modules, developers can expedite the development process by incorporating functionality without the need to redevelop it from scratch.
  • Reduced APK Size: AAR files allow for lazy loading of shared libraries, reducing the overall size of APK (Android Package Kit) files. This is particularly beneficial for devices with limited storage space.

Other Extensions