Historically, the Android SDK used a tools/ folder containing the sdkmanager . Google replaced that package with a new one located in cmdline-tools/ . The new cmdline-tools package offers significant advantages:
If you only need to interact with a physical device or flash a custom ROM, you do not need the full SDK. You only need the Platform Tools: google.com macOS Platform Tools: google.com Linux Platform Tools: google.com How to Install the Standalone Android SDK Tools
Android SDK Tools Link: Official Downloads and Installation Guide (2026) android sdk tools link
The Complete Guide to Android SDK Tools Links: Downloads, Setup, and Troubleshooting
To use adb or fastboot from any command prompt, add the extracted folder location to your system's PATH environment variable. Historically, the Android SDK used a tools/ folder
Downloading the zip file is only the first step. The Android tools look for a specific folder structure to function correctly. Follow these steps to install them manually without Android Studio. Step 1: Extract into the Correct Directory Structure
, which allows you to download other parts of the SDK (like specific API levels) without a GUI. Where to find it : Scroll to the bottom of the Android Studio Downloads page and look for the section titled "Command line tools only" Pro Tips for Installation Avoid Spaces : When choosing an installation path (e.g., C:\Android\Sdk ), make sure the folder names do contain spaces, as this can break some older SDK tools. Environment Variables : After downloading, add the platform-tools cmdline-tools/bin directories to your system's so you can run sdkmanager from any terminal window. Stay Updated : Android updates frequently. Check the Platform Tools Release Notes You only need the Platform Tools: google
Add to your ~/.bashrc or ~/.zshrc :
If your physical phone does not show up under adb devices , ensure is toggled on inside the phone's hidden Developer Options menu. Windows users may also need to install OEM USB drivers specific to their phone brand.