title: Package Manager in Android
body: <p>I am trying to understand the Android <code>PackageManager</code> (functionality and uses) and the new improvements in Ice Cream Sandwich for <code>PackageManager</code> over previous versions.</p>
  
  <p>I have seen the following links and some old threads but still would appreciate if someone can provide me with more references or an explanation as very little is available on the internet.  </p>
  
  <p><a href="http://developer.android.com/reference/android/content/pm/PackageManager.html" rel="noreferrer">PackageManager Android docs</a></p>
  
  <p><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Package_manager" rel="noreferrer">Wikipedia - Package Manager</a></p>
  
  <h2>EDIT:</h2>
  
  <p>I wanted to broaden my understanding about <code>PackageManager</code> in android. </p>
  
  <ol>
  <li><p>How it works with APK's (Set of checks and steps that it follows for installation, updating and deletion). </p></li>
  <li><p>Android Play market acts as a repository for data. The interaction of <code>PackageManager</code> with market for downloading and updating.</p></li>
  <li><p>Is the installation process for 3rd party apps different to Play market apps, when using <code>PackageManager</code>?</p></li>
  </ol>
  
  <p>There is very little documentation available on android developer site for <code>PackageManager</code> and hence your help is really appreciated. </p>
  
  <p>Thanks :)</p>