What are the differences between an APP package and an HAP?

#harmonyos #hap #apppackage #harmonyosdevelopment

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Question

Short Answer

In HarmonyOS development, a HAP (Harmony Ability Package) is the core module format used during the development and debugging phase. Each HAP file contains everything needed for a specific module of the application, including code, resources, configuration files, and third-party libraries. Developers use HAP files for local testing and debugging via DevEco Studio or command-line tools. These files are not intended for distribution and cannot be uploaded directly to the Huawei AppGallery.

Once development and testing are complete, the application is packaged into an APP file for release. The APP package includes one or more HAPs (such as the base and optional feature modules), along with metadata and a digital signature. This package format is required for submission to Huawei's AppGallery and is what end users download and install. In summary, HAPs are used for local debugging, while the APP package is the finalized version used for distribution and release.

Feature	HAP File	APP Package
Purpose	Local debugging and testing	Official release and distribution
Usage Stage	Development	Production
File Extension	`.hap`	`.app`
Content	Single module	One or more HAPs, metadata, signature
Can be submitted to store	❌	✅
Installation	DevEco Studio	AppGallery / end-user installation

Applicable Scenarios

HAP files are mainly used during the development and debugging phase, allowing developers to test individual modules locally before integration. APP packages, on the other hand, are used for production and distribution, containing all necessary modules, metadata, and signatures for end-user installation via Huawei AppGallery. In short, HAPs are for testing, while APPs are for official release.