The most interesting feature regarding this file format is its capability:
If the update in partition B fails to boot or is buggy, the system automatically reverts to partition A. This prevents the device from becoming "bricked" during a failed update process. AB-GOTA.zip
Modern "Virtual A/B" updates (common in Android 11+) use compressed snapshots. Instead of needing double the physical storage, the AB-GOTA.zip package only writes the differences (diffs) to the storage, significantly reducing the disk space required for the update. The most interesting feature regarding this file format
The system maintains two separate partitions (A and B). While you are using partition A, the AB-GOTA.zip file installs the new update to partition B in the background. You only experience a brief restart to switch to the new version. AB-GOTA.zip