How to generate an .apk file from Xamarin.Forms Project using Visual Studio?
When using Visual Studio 2015 Update 3 with the latest Xamarin tools (which is v4.2.2.6 when writing this answer), right click your Android project and select "Archive..." as described here:
This will open the Archive Manager and begins the process of archiving the App bundle. When the archiving is finished, you can click on the button "Distribute..." at the right bottom corner of the Archive Manager to create a signed APK. This is described here:
Note: if you do not use a signed APK, you will probably get a parse error if try to install on an Android device.
Try The Following Steps:
You need to change Your Project Mode from debug to release.
Rebuild your project.
Go to Solution Explorer -> Android project (right click) --> Archive --> Distribute -- AdHoc --> Sign & Add Details --> Save As
The APK is Ready To Publish in Play Store
Firstly your project should be in Release ModeThen simply Right Click on your android Project and select "Export Android Package (.apk)"
Your .apk file will be created in your project directory