APKLab

Abstract

1. Introduction

APKLab seamlessly integrates the best open-source tools: Apktool, smali-lsp, Jadx, uber-apk-signer, apk-mitm and more to the excellent VS Code so you can focus on app analysis and get it done without leaving the IDE.

The ultimate Android RE experience right inside your VS Code.

2. Objective

Android Reverse-Engineering Workbench for VS Code

This project demonstrates how TypeScript, Android can be applied to a real-world Cybersecurity & Ethical Hacking problem.

3. Key Features / Modules

• Decode/Edit/Rebuild app resource files
• Disassemble/Mod/Rebuild an APK to/from Smali
• Decompile the APK to Java source
• Excellent Smali language support with smali-lsp — go to definition, find references, hover, call/type hierarchy, code lens, completion, diagnostics
• Analyze & mod effectively in VS Code with full IDE features
• Sign & Install the APK after rebuild
• Generate Frida hooks for any smali methods
• Inject Frida gadget into APK with automatic main activity patching
• Initialize git repo in project dir to track changes
• Apply MITM patch for HTTPS inspection

4. Technology Stack

• Open the Command Palette (Ctrl+Shift+P) APKLab: Empty ApkTool Framework Dir

5. System Requirements

General requirements for this technology stack — check the README for exact versions.

• Node.js (LTS) and npm / yarn / pnpm
• VS Code or any code editor
• Git (to clone the repository)

6. Installation & Setup

git clone https://github.com/APKLab/APKLab.git
cd APKLab

1. Right-Click on .apk file (in dist directory) APKLab: Install the APK

Full setup instructions are in the project README.

7. Future Enhancements

Suggested extensions you can add to make this your own project.

• Add logging and alert notifications (email / Telegram)
• Write a threat model document for the tool
• Package it with Docker for safe lab testing

8. Viva / Review Questions

Common questions examiners ask for projects in this domain.

1. Which threat or attack does this project defend against?
2. What detection or protection technique is used and what are its limits?
3. How are false positives and false negatives handled?
4. Which cryptographic algorithms or security standards are involved?
5. What legal and ethical rules apply when testing a tool like this?

9. Source Code & License

This project is developed by APKLab and published on GitHub under the GNU Affero General Public License v3.0. Please follow the license terms and credit the original author when you use or modify this code.