All about _MANIFEST Files

The _MANIFEST file type is primarily associated with Android Package Manager.

_MANIFESTFile Extension _MANIFEST
File extension: _MANIFEST
File type:  App metadata

What is an _MANIFEST file?

_MANIFEST files mostly belong to Android Package Manager. A ._MANIFEST file is a crucial component of Android application packages (APKs). It contains metadata about the APK, including permissions, version information, and the list of files within the APK. This metadata is used by the Android Package Manager (PackageManager) to verify the integrity of the app and manage its installation, updates, and uninstallation. The ._MANIFEST file is signed along with the rest of the APK contents to ensure authenticity and prevent tampering. It plays a vital role in Android's security model by enabling the system to verify the app's identity and permissions before granting it access to device resources.

How to open an _MANIFEST file

You need a suitable software like Android Package Manager to open an _MANIFEST file. You need a suitable software like Android Package Manager to open an _MANIFEST file. Without proper software you will receive a Windows message "How do you want to open this file?" or "Windows cannot open this file" or a similar Mac/iPhone/Android alert. If you cannot open your _MANIFEST file correctly, try to right-click or long-press the file. Then click "Open with" and choose an application. You can also display a _MANIFEST file directly in the browser:. Just drag the file onto this browser window and drop it.

Online _MANIFEST Text Viewer

Choose your ._manifest file to analyze

Read our privacy guarantee in Filext’s terms and privacy policy

Please allow ads on our site

This helps us keep our servers running. Then re-upload your file to view it.

Click here to see how to disable the ad blocker for filext.com

Can't Open Your ._MANIFEST File? Try These Steps

Because ._MANIFEST files can be generated by various programs, there is no universal application to open them.

  1. Identify the Source: If you received it from an Android developer or extracted an app package, it is likely app metadata for the Android Package Manager.
  2. Check the Header: Open the file in a text editor or hex viewer to inspect the first bytes:
    • Readable XML or JSON often indicates configuration data.
    • "PK" suggests it is part of a zipped archive.
  3. Use the Original Software: The original program is usually required; try Android Studio, Android SDK tools, or ask the sender if uncertain.
  4. Use this Webpage: Drag and drop your file onto this page to automatically detect its format, extract readable metadata, and preview the contents.

Technical Data for _MANIFEST File Extension

File classification:
Configuration file
Related files:

an _manifest App metadata is a special file format and should only be edited and saved with the appropriate software.

How to solve problems with _MANIFEST files

  • Associate the _MANIFEST file extension with the correct application.
  • Update your software that should actually open app metadata files. Because only the current version supports the latest _MANIFEST file format. Search, therefore, e.g. on the manufacturer website after an available Android Package Manager update.
  • To make sure that your _MANIFEST file is not corrupted or virus-infected, get the file again and scan it with Google's virustotal.com.
  • Click here to open your ._MANIFEST file online - secure, fast, and no downloads needed.
Drop here
View another file
_MANIFEST file viewer _MANIFEST file description