Convert SWF to APK

Everything points to swf to apk conversion being searched by users interested in either playing SWF content directly on Android devices, or making Android apps based on .swf files. There are two things to consider when attempting such export. Adobe discontinued Flash at the end of 2020, which severely limits future compativility and SWF content may not perform optimally on modern Android devices or not all features may be supported.

How to build APK packages from SWF files

Old flash based content saved as .swf files (usually Flash games) can be repacked as APK archives and deployed on Android based smartphones as Android apps. This is usually done with some dedicated programs like Andaired, which use Adobe AIR technology and can be used to essentially achieve swf to apk conversion.

Here are the steps for making APK package with Andaired

1. First prepare your .swf file and make sure it is working as intended. It is really import that it works flawlessly and any external dependencies o  resources the SWF file requires are properly addressed.

2.  Open the Andaired tool and configure the conversion settings. It provides a user-friendly interface for the conversion process.

   • Input SWF: Select your SWF file.
   • Application Settings: Fill in the necessary information like the app name, version, package name (which is usually in reverse domain name format like com.example.myapp), and orientation (landscape or portrait).
   • Icons and Splash Screen: Upload icons and splash screens for your app in the required resolutions. These are important for the look of your app on Android devices.
   • Permissions: Set any specific permissions your app might need on Android, such as internet access or file system access.

3. Integration of Adobe AIR Runtime: Decide if you want to bundle the Adobe AIR runtime with your APK or require users to download it separately. Including it increases the APK size but makes installation easier for users. Just keep in mind that not every device is compatible with Adobe AIR mobile apps since it requires ARMv7 CPU, so it might not work for older devices.

4. Generate APK: Click on the button to convert the SWF file to an APK package. Andaired will use the Adobe AIR SDK in the background to package your SWF into an Android-compatible format.

Is it possible to play SWF files on Android?

Except for attempts to bulild APK app from SWF files, you can find apps on Google Market that can be used to play SWF content, for example SWF Player - Flash File Viewer.