ARSC File Extension

ARSC file icon

Google Android Resource Format

What is a ARSC file?

Google Android Resource Format, identified by the ARSC extension, is a Smartphone Files type and includes 69 files.

With the creation of the Google Android Resource Format (ARSC), Google introduced file format along with 34 programs built for their use.

ARSC files are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Linux and Mac OS as well as mobile platforms such as Android. You can create a ARSC file using one of 7 programs, for example Google Android SDK, Eclipse with ADT Plugin and IntelliJ IDEA.

File Signature

HEX code: 02 00 0C 00 3C 82. ASCII code: .....

How to open a ARSC file?

The most common reason why a ARSC file cannot be opened is the absence of required software. To fix this, select a compatible program from the list. Then visit the official developer website via the provided link, download the program, and install it on your system.

Google Android SDK, Eclipse with ADT Plugin and IntelliJ IDEA are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with ARSC files. To install the most up-to-date edition of Google Android SDK, visit the official Google website. You can download the build that works across all operating systems.

After installation, your operating system should automatically open ARSC files with Google Android SDK.

Set Google Android SDK as the default ARSC handler

Setting a default program by file type in Windows

  1. Start by right-clicking on your ARSC file and selecting the "Open With" option. From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
  2. In the pop-up window, find and select the Google Android SDK application from the available options;
  3. Make sure the "Always use this app" checkbox is checked and click "OK" to confirm your choice as the default app for opening ARSC files.

Choose an app to open a file on Mac

  1. Right click or use Control + left click on the desired ARSC file to launch the file options menu;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. Next, at the bottom of the window, you will see the "Enable" menu, in which "Recommended Programs" is selected by default;
  4. In this menu, select "All Programs", then find Google Android SDK and check the box next to "Always open in the application."

How to edit a ARSC file?

Editing ARSC files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit smartphone files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Google Android Resource Format programs.

List of Top ARSC editors 2026

Based on these criteria, we have prepared a list of available ARSC editors.

ARSC Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Google Android SDK ToolsGoogleWindows, Mac OS, Linux4.7 out of 5 (42 reviews)
Eclipse with ADT PluginGoogleWindows, Mac OS, Linux4.6 out of 5 (41 review)
IntelliJ IDEAJetBrainsWindows, Mac OS, Linux4.6 out of 5 (43 reviews)
Google Android SDKGoogleWindows, Mac OS, Linux4.5 out of 5 (40 reviews)

Effective solutions for ARSC file problems

There are some common issues with ARSC files that can be resolved easily by making minor adjustments to your software. Below, you’ll find these issues along with practical troubleshooting tips.

Are there any techniques or tools available to repair a damaged ARSC file?

Use EaseUS MobiSaver to open the damaged ARSC file and select the "Repair" function from the menu. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged smartphone files.

What are the signs that my ARSC file is damaged?

Corrupted ARSC smartphone files may show the following signs:

  • Editing the archive in Google Android SDK is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
  • Opening or processing the file in Google Android SDK or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
  • The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
  • Unexpected expansion of the total size of the ARSC file;
  • Working with the file triggers the display of error messages;

What factors contribute to Google Android SDK crash?

Google Android SDK crashes can be attributed to outdated software. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Google products.

Restarting your computer can resolve numerous common problems, so it should be the initial step before changing any software-related settings.