How to Install the Android SDK (Software Development Kit)

What to Know

Mac: Download/install Android Studio for Mac > select Start a new Android Studio > Phone and Tablet > Next.
Next: Select Finish > SDK Manager icon > select versions/tools to use > OK.
Windows: Install Android Studio for Windows > select SDK Manager button > select versions/tools > Apply.

This article explains how to install the Android SDK (Software Development Kit) in macOS and Windows.

A common misconception is this SDK is intended strictly for coders interested in creating apps when it can also be utilized to manually install software updates or even root (also known as jailbreak) your smartphone or tablet.

How to Install Android SDK on a Mac

Follow the instructions below to install the Android SDK in macOS.

Open a web browser and navigate to the Android Studio download page.
Select DOWNLOAD ANDROID STUDIO.
The Android Studio license agreement will now be displayed. Select I have read and agree with the above terms and conditions.
Select DOWNLOAD ANDROID STUDIO FOR MAC.
A DMG file will now be download. Be patient, as the file is 700+ MB in size.
Open the downloaded file either through your browser’s taskbar or double-click the file itself via Finder.
An Android Studio disk image should now be visible. Click and drag the Android Studio icon into the Applications folder.
A progress bar will briefly appear as the files are copied, disappearing once the process is completed. Double-click the Applications icon found in the disk image window.
Your macOS Applications folder should now be open, with its latest addition positioned near or at the top of the list. Double-click Android Studio.

A warning message may now appear, noting Android Studio is an app downloaded from the internet and asking you if you’re sure you want to open it. Click Open to continue.
The Import Android Studio Settings From dialog will now be displayed. Select Do not import settings, if necessary, then click OK.
You’ll now be asked if you’d like to allow Google to collect anonymous usage data while Android Studio is running. Choose whichever you’re comfortable with.
The Android Studio Setup Wizard should now appear. Choose Next.
On the Install Type screen, click Standard (if desired), then choose Next.
Choose either the Darcula or Light user interface theme, then click Next.
The Verify Settings screen should now appear. Select Finish.
The components necessary for installation will now be downloaded, unarchived and installed. Click Show Details if you’d like to view more information about the real-time processes while you wait.

At some point during the process you may be asked to enter your macOS password so the HAXM installation can make changes. If this message appears, type the same password you use on your computer’s login screen, then click OK.
Once the installation process is complete, select Finish again.
Android Studio is now installed, along with the latest version of the Android SDK. Click Start a new Android Studio project.
Select the Phone and Tablet tab, if necessary, then choose Next to create a new empty activity.
Select Finish on the Configure your project screen.
A new project interface will now appear, as shown in the accompanying screenshot. Select the SDK Manager icon, represented by a cube with a down arrow located in the upper right-hand corner.
The Android SDK Manager will now be displayed. Make the appropriate selections for the platform versions and tools you’ll need for your specific tasks, then choose OK. The Android SDK should now be installed and configured with your particular settings.

How to Install Android SDK on Windows

Follow the instructions below to install the Android SDK on your PC.

Open a web browser and navigate to the Android Studio download page.
Select DOWNLOAD ANDROID STUDIO.
The Android Studio user agreement should now be displayed. Select I have read and agree with the above terms and conditions.
Select DOWNLOAD ANDROID STUDIO FOR WINDOWS.
An EXE file will now be downloaded.
Open the downloaded file either through your browser’s taskbar or double-click on the file itself via Windows Explorer.
A User Account Control dialog will now appear, asking if you want to allow this app to make changes to your device. Select Yes.
The Android Studio Setup application should now launch, overlaying your desktop. Select Next.
The Choose Components screen will now be displayed. Select Android Virtual Device if it isn't already selected, then select Next.
You’ll now be asked to choose a location on your PC’s hard drive to install Android Studio. We recommend the default option, but you can select Browse and choose a different folder path if you so desire. Select Next to continue.
Select Install.
The installation will now begin, with progress details displayed throughout. Select Show details to view advanced installation information in real-time. Once the process is complete, select Next.
You’ll now be asked if you’d like to import settings from a previous version or external file. Select OK once you're satisfied with your choices.
Next, you’ll be asked whether or not you’d like to allow Google to collect anonymous usage data. Select the option you’re comfortable with.

Depending on your specific configuration, you may be required to answer additional questions at this point.
A new Android Studio project window should now be displayed. Select the SDK Manager button, represented by a cube with a down arrow.
The Android SDK Manager will now appear. Make the appropriate selections for the platform versions and tools you’ll need for your specific tasks, then select Apply.
Select OK. The Android SDK should now be installed and configured to your liking.

Was this page helpful?

Thanks for letting us know!

Tell us why!