What you need
- An Android phone on Android 8.0 or later with a 64-bit (ARM64) processor
- A few GB of free storage and a recent phone with enough RAM for your player count
- A Wi-Fi or mobile data connection
- The PocketHost app from Google Play
Set up the server
- Install PocketHost and open it
- Create a new server and choose a Minecraft version
- Optionally add plugins or restore a world
- Tap Start Server and wait for the console to say it is ready
Let friends join
PocketHost gives you a public address through its relay, so friends can connect from anywhere without port forwarding. Java players type the address in Multiplayer. Bedrock players use the same address with the Bedrock port shown in the app.
Keep it running smoothly
- Keep the phone plugged in for long sessions and let it stay cool
- Lower the view distance and simulation distance for more players
- Close heavy apps in the background
- Back up your world before trying new plugins
Frequently asked questions
Can you really host a Minecraft server on a phone?
Yes. A phone has a capable processor and enough memory to run a PaperMC server for a group of friends. PocketHost handles the setup and networking.
How many players can an Android phone host?
It depends on the phone, the view distance and the plugins. Small groups of friends are the best fit. There is no artificial player cap in the app.
Does the server stay on when the screen is locked?
Yes. PocketHost runs as a background service, so the server keeps running with the screen off.