Android apps have a size limit for the main APK file. To accommodate larger apps, especially games, developers use OBB files to store additional data, allowing the APK to stay under the size limit.
The OBB file is typically saved in a specific directory on the Android device's shared storage, usually at:
/Android/obb/[App Package Name]/
The file is automatically recognized by the app when it is launched. Without the correct OBB file in the correct location, the app may not function properly or at all.
Key Characteristics
Large Asset Storage: OBB files are essential for applications, especially games, that require more than the typical APK size limit. They contain resources that are too big to be packaged with the main app executable.
File Location: OBB files are stored in a specific directory on the Android device's internal storage, typically at /Android/obb/[package_name]/. Each app has its own dedicated folder within the obb directory to prevent conflicts.
Separation from APK: The APK file contains the core executable code and a small amount of initial data, while the OBB file holds the bulk of the app's assets. This separation allows for smaller initial downloads from the Google Play Store, with the OBB file being downloaded either automatically upon installation or when the app is first launched.
OBB files are a solution for developers to manage the size of their apps and provide a better user experience by splitting the installation into a small initial download and a larger data download.
How OBB Files Work
When you download a large app or game from the Google Play Store, the APK is installed first. The Android system then automatically downloads the corresponding OBB file and places it in the correct location.
This process is seamless for the user. In cases where the app is sideloaded (installed from a source other than the Google Play Store), the user may need to manually place the OBB file in the correct directory for the app to function properly.
The use of OBB files has been a standard practice, though newer formats like the Android App Bundle are becoming more common for app distribution.
