adb-install

Install an APK

$ adb install [app.apk]

$ adb install -r [app.apk]

$ adb install -s [app.apk]

$ adb install -d [app.apk]

$ adb install -g [app.apk]

adb install [-lrtsdg] file

adb install pushes an Android application package (APK) to a connected device and installs it. The APK is copied to the device's temporary storage, installed by the package manager, and then the temporary file is removed.
The command provides various options to control installation behavior, including replacing existing apps, downgrading versions, and automatically granting runtime permissions.

-l

Install with forward lock (deprecated)

Replace existing application (keep data)

Allow installation of test APKs

Install on SD card instead of internal storage

Allow version code downgrade (debuggable packages only)

Grant all runtime permissions automatically

Override platform's default ABI

Partial application install (install base splits)

Install as instant app

Installation may fail if the APK is signed with a different key than the existing installation (requires uninstall first). Some devices restrict installation from unknown sources. Downgrade installation requires the app to be debuggable or using -d flag.

adb install has been available since the initial Android SDK release in 2008. Options have expanded over time to support split APKs, instant apps, and Android App Bundles.

adb(1), adb-uninstall(1), aapt(1), apksigner(1)