Wi-Fi Multiplayer Coming to Minecraft Pocket Edition Soon (0.7.0)
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minecraft
So you thought 0.6.0 was a pretty good update for MCPE? Well, get ready for the best update yet! Soon enough, Minecraft Pockedt Edition will have a multiplayer mode - SMP. We've got all the exclusive details right here for what should be version 0.7.0.
Minecraft Pocket edition has taken a while to get going but in recent months it's seen millions of downloads, helping Mojang reach that impressive 9 million milestone. So it comes as no surprise that the most wished for feature is soon to become a reality!
Starting in version 0.7.0 (probably, but version number unconfirmed), players will be able to download the server version of MCPE and join multiplayer games.
How does multiplayer work on Minecraft Pocket Edition
Unlike the PC version of Minecraft, the multiplayer version of MCPE is Wi-Fi only. So you're going to be sharing your world with people in the same room, or very close by. It will still be similar to the PC version because you'll need to download the server version of MCPE and run it on your device (or maybe your PC, depends which direction Mojang go).
Mobile devices such as iPhone, Android and iPad should be able to run both a client and server version of Minecraft, especially if the number of players is fairly small.
You'll be able to download the new MCPE server app from iTunes or the Play (Android) store.
Will a chat feature be released?
Yep! The next big feature coming with multiplayer is of course the chat feature. Mojang have confirmed that chat is on their to-do list. Not sure if it'll be included in 0.7.0 but it's a possibility.
Opening chat will enabled your touch screen keyboard where you'll be able to type free text to send to other players, or broadcast to everyone.
Can I join other peoples games online?
No, the multiplayer feature is Wi-Fi only so you can only join a server in your vicinity. This is not an internet SMP mode like the PC version.
Will player names appear above their heads?
Yes, player names will show above their heads just like they do on the PC version. The skin will also change based on the users profile.
Will I need a Mojang account to play multiplayer?
Yes, as part of the new multiplayer system, players will need to register for a Mojang (Minecraft) account before they can play SMP. If you've already got an account then you can jump straight in and start playing.
If you don't have an account, you'll be able to register for a new one from within the game. Since you've already paid for the app, there is no need to go to the Mojang website and create another account - it's free!