jadx getting started — Android DEX/APK decompile (authorized only)

Last updated: · By the BinBench editorial team · Stars and releases checked via the GitHub API
For legal, authorized and educational use only. Only analyze software you own or have written permission to examine.
Quick answer

jadx (skylot/jadx) turns Android DEX/APK bytecode into Java-like source you can read. Version v1.5.6 (2026-07-10 UTC) is Apache-2.0 and runs on Windows, macOS and Linux (Java). Use it on apps you own, your employer’s builds, or labs that explicitly allow reverse engineering.

On this page

Snapshot

FieldValue
LicenseApache-2.0
PlatformsWindows, macOS, Linux (Java)
Stars (API 2026-10-17 UTC)about 51.0k
Latest checkedv1.5.6 (2026-07-10 UTC)
JobDEX/APK → readable Java-like source

First run (shape only)

Official releases ship GUI and CLI entry points. Exact flags change — prefer the repository README over mirrored blogs:

  1. Install a supported JDK.
  2. Download jadx from the official GitHub Releases page (not a random “jadx cracked” zip).
  3. Open an authorized APK or use the CLI decompile command documented upstream.
  4. Export or browse classes; keep notes on jadx version + APK hash for your report.

jadx vs Apktool (one screen)

NeedTool
Read decompiled methodsjadx
Decode/rebuild resources & SmaliApktool (workflow)
Runtime hooks on a lab buildFrida (legal getting started)

Authorized workflow checklist

Which to pick
  • Confirm ownership or written permission before opening the package.
  • Prefer your own debug builds when learning.
  • Do not publish decompiled proprietary source.
  • Pair with Apktool only when resources/Smali rebuild is in scope and allowed.
  • No piracy, no license-stripping guides, no malware packaging.
  • BinBench does not host APKs or keystores.

For legal, authorized and educational use only.

FAQ

Is jadx free?

Yes. jadx is Apache-2.0 licensed and free of charge.

Which version is cited here?

v1.5.6 (GitHub release 2026-07-10 UTC per BinBench facts). Re-check Releases before you pin a CI image.

Do I need Apktool too?

For reading Java-like source, jadx is enough. For decoding/rebuilding resources and Smali, add Apktool — see jadx vs Apktool.

Can I decompile any Play Store app?

Only if you own it or have written authorization. Store terms and local law still apply.

Does jadx bypass DRM or license checks?

BinBench does not cover circumvention. Do not use jadx to strip protections you are not allowed to remove.

Sources