APK Installation Failed — Complete Error Code Guide

You downloaded an APK, tapped "Install," and got an error. This guide covers every common APK installation error.

Error 1: "Parse Error"

The #1 most common error. Caused by incomplete download, corrupted file, or Android version too low. Fix: redownload the APK and check file size.

Error 2: Installation Failed (-11)

Not enough storage. Free up at least 2GB. APK install needs space ≈ APK size × 3.

Error 3: Installation Failed (-28)

Signature conflict. Uninstall the existing version of the app, then install the new APK.

Error 4: Installation Failed (-29)

APK uses only v1 signature (too old). Get an updated APK or re-sign with v1+v2.

Error 5: "Invalid Package"

File is not a real APK. Redownload from a trusted source like gptoapk.com.

Error 6: "App Not Installed" (No Code)

Package name conflict. Uninstall existing version, restart phone, try again.

Error 7: Install Failed After Full Progress

System-level restriction on MIUI/ColorOS. Enable "Install Unknown Apps" permission or use ADB: adb install your-app.apk.

Error 8: "INSTALL_FAILED_UPDATE_INCOMPATIBLE"

Uninstall current version first, then install new APK.

Error 9: "Newer Version Already Installed"

You're trying to downgrade. Uninstall current version, install older APK, disable auto-updates.

Error 10: Installs but Crashes

Wrong CPU architecture or missing Google Play Services. Match architecture when downloading. Use gptoapk.com for the right version.

Quick Reference Table

90% of the time it's a corrupted download. Delete the APK, get a fresh one from gptoapk.com, and try again.