Portable: Arsc Decompiler

While there are several tools (like Apktool , Androguard , or JADX ), the most reliable is a lightweight Python script often simply called arsc_decompiler . Unlike Apktool, which requires Java and a full framework installation, this portable script has minimal dependencies.

Most reverse engineering tools are heavy. They require JDK installations, environment variables, and admin rights. A version of an ARSC decompiler changes the game: arsc decompiler portable

"Unlocking Android App Secrets: A Guide to Using APCS Decompiler Portable" While there are several tools (like Apktool ,

Assuming you have the portable script or EXE, here is how to extract the human-readable data. You need to change a hardcoded API endpoint

You have an old APK from 2018 with no source code. You need to change a hardcoded API endpoint. Use the portable decompiler, edit one string, and repack. No Android Studio required.

unzip suspicious_app.apk -d extracted_apk/