article Blog Post

How to Host a Minecraft Server on Android

A complete guide to turning your Android device into a powerful Minecraft server using ARM-MC and PumpkinMC

schedule 5 min read calendar_today January 30, 2026

Hosting your own Minecraft server has traditionally required a dedicated PC or expensive VPS subscription. But what if you could host a high-performance server directly from your Android phone? With ARM-MC, that's now a reality.

What is ARM-MC?

ARM-MC is a revolutionary Android application that allows you to host Minecraft servers directly from your mobile device. Built on top of PumpkinMC, a high-performance Rust-based Minecraft server implementation, ARM-MC brings enterprise-level server hosting to the palm of your hand.

Unlike traditional Java-based servers like Paper or Spigot, PumpkinMC is written in Rust, making it incredibly lightweight and efficient. This means your Android device can run a Minecraft server with performance that rivals many budget VPS solutions, all while using significantly less RAM and CPU.

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Currently in Alpha

ARM-MC is currently in public alpha. While the core functionality works great for creative building and social hangouts, some survival features like mob AI, Redstone, and certain dimensions are still in development as PumpkinMC matures.

Why Host on Android?

You might be wondering: why would I want to host a Minecraft server on my phone? Here are some compelling reasons:

  • Hardware You Already Own: Modern Android phones pack powerful multicore processors and 4-8GB of RAM. Instead of buying new hardware or paying monthly VPS fees, you can repurpose the device you already have.
  • Energy Efficient: A phone uses far less power than leaving a gaming PC running 24/7. Your electricity bill will thank you.
  • Portability: Your server fits in your pocket. Take it to a friend's house, manage it from anywhere, or even host on the go.
  • No Port-Forwarding Required: ARM-MC includes free automated tunneling, so you don't need to mess with router settings or understand networking.
  • Free to Start: No upfront costs, no monthly fees. Just download the app and start hosting.

Key Features of ARM-MC

One-Click Server Setup

Gone are the days of downloading server JAR files, configuring server.properties, and wrestling with Java installations. ARM-MC handles all the complexity for you. Simply tap "Create Server" and you're ready to go in seconds.

Free Public Subdomains

Every server instance comes with a free *.ARM-MC.com subdomain. Instead of sharing a complicated IP address with ports, you can give your friends a clean, memorable URL like happy-villager-36.ARM-MC.com. Free tier users get randomized subdomains that last for 2-hour sessions, while supporters can claim permanent custom subdomains.

Web-Based RCON Dashboard

Manage your server from anywhere with ARM-MC's built-in web dashboard. Execute commands, monitor player activity, view logs, and adjust settings without needing to keep the app open. It's perfect for managing your server while you're actually playing on another device.

Background Operation

ARM-MC uses Android background services to keep your server running even when the app isn't in the foreground. We provide detailed guides on configuring battery optimization settings to ensure maximum uptime.

Getting Started with ARM-MC

Ready to host your own server? Here's how to get started:

  1. Download the App: Get ARM-MC from the Google Play Store
  2. Create Your Server: Tap the create button and configure your world settings
  3. Start Hosting: Hit start and receive your public subdomain instantly
  4. Share with Friends: Give them your *.ARM-MC.com address and start playing

The app guides you through each step with helpful tooltips and recommendations for optimal performance on your specific device.

Performance Expectations

While Android hosting won't replace a dedicated server rack, the performance is surprisingly good for small to medium groups. Thanks to PumpkinMC's Rust implementation, you can expect:

  • Smooth gameplay for 5-20 concurrent players (depending on your device)
  • RAM usage of 1-2GB for typical worlds
  • CPU usage that won't make your phone uncomfortably warm during normal play
  • Response times comparable to budget VPS hosting

For the best experience, we recommend using a device with at least 6GB of RAM and a relatively recent processor. Flagship phones from the last 2-3 years work exceptionally well.

Current Limitations

It's important to understand that ARM-MC is currently in alpha and relies on PumpkinMC, which is still in active development. This means:

  • Mob AI is not fully implemented yet
  • Redstone mechanics are in early development
  • The Nether and End dimensions are not yet available
  • Some blocks and items may have limited functionality

For now, ARM-MC shines brightest for creative building projects, mini-games, and social hangout servers. As PumpkinMC development continues, more survival features will be added.

Join the Community

ARM-MC is more than just an app—it's a community of mobile server enthusiasts pushing the boundaries of what's possible on Android. Join our Discord server to:

  • Get help with setup and troubleshooting
  • Share your server creations and builds
  • Stay updated on new features and PumpkinMC progress
  • Connect with other mobile server hosts
  • Provide feedback to help shape the future of ARM-MC

Final Thoughts

Hosting a Minecraft server on Android might sound unconventional, but with ARM-MC and PumpkinMC, it's not only possible—it's practical. Whether you're looking to save money on hosting, reduce your environmental footprint, or just think it's cool to run a server from your phone, ARM-MC makes it easy.

The app is completely free to use, with optional supporter tiers that help fund development and infrastructure costs. Download it today and discover a new way to host Minecraft servers.

Ready to Start Hosting?

Download ARM-MC and launch your first server in under a minute

Join the Community

Connect with other mobile Minecraft hosts and get support on our Discord server.

© 2026 ARM-MC. Not an official Minecraft product. Not approved by or associated with Mojang, Microsoft or PumpkinMC.