Ultimate Guide: How to Install Mods on Minecraft PE (Android & iOS)

Minecraft Pocket Edition (PE), now known as Minecraft Bedrock Edition on mobile devices, offers a fantastic on-the-go Minecraft experience. While the vanilla game is already incredibly engaging, the world of mods elevates it to a whole new level. Mods can introduce new items, blocks, mobs, gameplay mechanics, and even entire dimensions, providing endless possibilities for customization and enhanced gameplay. However, unlike the PC version, installing mods on Minecraft PE/Bedrock Edition requires a different approach. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, covering both Android and iOS platforms. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Minecraft PE Mods

Before we begin, it’s essential to understand what we mean by ‘mods’ in the context of Minecraft PE. Unlike the Java Edition, which uses traditional mod files (like .jar files), Minecraft Bedrock Edition uses addons or behavior packs and resource packs. These addons function as the mods for the PE version of the game. They are typically packaged as .mcaddon, .mcpack, or .zip files. Here’s a brief explanation of each:

• .mcaddon files: These files contain both the behavior pack (which modifies game logic) and the resource pack (which changes textures, sounds, and models) in a single package, making installation easier.
• .mcpack files: These files usually contain either a behavior pack or a resource pack. You may need both to get the full effect of a mod.
• .zip files: These are compressed archives that may contain behavior packs, resource packs, or both. You will need to extract the contents before installing them.

It’s crucial to download mods from trusted sources to avoid malware or game corruption. Reputable websites, forums, and app stores should be your go-to locations for finding safe addons.

Installing Mods on Android Devices

Android offers more flexibility when it comes to file management, making the mod installation process slightly easier compared to iOS. Here’s a step-by-step guide for Android devices:

Step 1: Finding and Downloading Mods

The first step is to find the mods you want to install. As mentioned before, stick to trustworthy websites like MCPEDL, forums dedicated to Minecraft PE mods, or dedicated Minecraft addon apps on the Google Play Store. When downloading mods, be aware of the file type (.mcaddon, .mcpack, or .zip) and the version compatibility with your Minecraft PE installation. Ensure you’re downloading addons compatible with your specific game version to avoid crashes or conflicts.

Pro Tip: Always read the mod descriptions and comments before downloading to make sure it meets your needs and doesn’t have any known issues.

Step 2: Installing .mcaddon or .mcpack Files

This is the easiest way to install mods. Once you’ve downloaded an .mcaddon or .mcpack file, follow these steps:

1. Locate the Downloaded File: Use a file manager app (like Files by Google or your phone’s default file manager) to find the downloaded mod file. It’s typically in your ‘Downloads’ folder.
2. Tap to Open: Tap on the .mcaddon or .mcpack file. If you have Minecraft installed on your device, the game should automatically recognize the file type and start importing the mod.
3. Import Confirmation: Minecraft PE will open, and you should see a message at the top of the screen saying ‘Import Started.’ This will be followed by a ‘Successfully Imported [mod name]’ message.

Step 3: Installing .zip Files

If the mod you downloaded came in a .zip file, you’ll need to extract its contents before you can install the mod. Here’s how:

1. Extract the Zip File: Use a file manager app to navigate to the .zip file you downloaded. Tap the file, and select the ‘Extract’ option. You might be asked to choose an extraction location; the default download folder is typically fine.
2. Locate the Extracted Files: The extracted files should now be in a folder inside your ‘Downloads’ or the chosen extraction folder. The folder should contain either a behavior pack folder, a resource pack folder, or both.
3. Open Minecraft and Create/Edit World: Launch Minecraft PE, and either create a new world or edit an existing one where you want to use the mods.
4. Navigate to Resource Packs or Behavior Packs: In the world settings, navigate to ‘Resource Packs’ and ‘Behavior Packs.’
5. Select the Pack: In each of the respective sections, you should find the mod’s folder. Click on it to activate it.
6. Activate the Mod: Select ‘Activate’ to enable the mod in your world.

Step 4: Applying Mods to your World

Once a mod is imported or activated, it won’t be effective until you apply it to your world. Here’s how:

1. Create or Edit a World: Open Minecraft PE and either create a new world or edit an existing one.
2. Go to Resource Packs/Behavior Packs: Scroll down in the world settings to the ‘Resource Packs’ and ‘Behavior Packs’ sections.
3. Activate the Packs: Find the mod(s) you imported. They should now appear in the ‘Available Packs’ section. Click ‘Activate’ for each pack.
4. Confirmation Message: The active packs will move to the ‘Active’ section of the menu.
5. Play the Game: Start playing in your world, and the modifications should be active!

Important Note: If the mod is a resource pack, you will find it in the ‘Resource Packs’ section. If it’s a behavior pack, it goes in the ‘Behavior Packs’ section. Some mods include both, so you’ll need to enable both sections.

Installing Mods on iOS Devices

Installing mods on iOS can be slightly more complex due to Apple’s tighter file system restrictions. However, with the right approach, it’s still achievable. Here’s a detailed guide:

Step 1: Downloading Mods on iOS

Similar to Android, begin by finding mods from reliable sources like MCPEDL, dedicated Minecraft forums, or reputable apps. The file types remain the same: .mcaddon, .mcpack, or .zip. Download the mod file using your Safari browser or another trusted web browser.

Note: iOS users cannot access the direct file system the way Android users can. This means we will typically use the Files app to navigate to downloaded files.

Step 2: Using the Files App

iOS comes with the Files app, which will be our main tool for installing mods. Once the mod file is downloaded, it should automatically be placed in the ‘Downloads’ folder within the Files app. This will vary depending on your browser settings.

Step 3: Installing .mcaddon or .mcpack Files

Installing .mcaddon and .mcpack files is quite straightforward. Here’s how:

1. Locate the Downloaded File: Open the Files app and navigate to your ‘Downloads’ folder (or wherever you save downloaded files). Find the .mcaddon or .mcpack file.
2. Tap to Open: Tap on the .mcaddon or .mcpack file. iOS should recognize that it’s a Minecraft addon and offer to open it with Minecraft PE.
3. Import Confirmation: Minecraft PE will open automatically. You will see ‘Import Started’ followed by ‘Successfully Imported [mod name]’ in the game.

Step 4: Installing .zip Files

Installing .zip files requires a few additional steps:

1. Extract the Zip File: Using the Files app, tap on the downloaded .zip file. The Files app will automatically extract its contents into a folder in the same location as the zip file.
2. Locate the Extracted Folder: Find the folder containing the extracted files. It should contain either the behavior pack folder, the resource pack folder, or both.
3. Open Minecraft and Create/Edit World: Launch Minecraft PE and either create a new world or edit an existing one.
4. Navigate to Resource Packs or Behavior Packs: Scroll down in the world settings to the ‘Resource Packs’ and ‘Behavior Packs’ sections.
5. Locate and Select the Mod Folders: In each of the respective sections, you should find the mod folder. Click on it to activate the mod.
6. Activate the Mod: Click ‘Activate’ to enable it in your world.

Step 5: Applying Mods to Your World (iOS)

The process of activating the mods in your world is the same as on Android:

1. Create or Edit a World: Open Minecraft PE and either create a new world or edit an existing one.
2. Navigate to Resource Packs/Behavior Packs: Scroll down in the world settings to the ‘Resource Packs’ and ‘Behavior Packs’ sections.
3. Activate the Packs: Locate the mod(s) you’ve imported, and activate them by clicking ‘Activate’.
4. Confirm: Verify that the mod(s) appear in the ‘Active’ section.
5. Play the Game: Launch the world, and your mods should now be active.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful installation, you might encounter some issues. Here are common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

• Mod Not Appearing in the World: Make sure you’ve correctly activated the mods in both the ‘Resource Packs’ and ‘Behavior Packs’ sections in the world settings. Check that the packs are compatible with your Minecraft version and were not disabled or replaced by other addon.
• Minecraft Crashing: This can happen if a mod is incompatible with your Minecraft version, conflicts with other mods, or if the mod has corrupted files. Remove recently installed mods, and only use mods from reputable sources. Always ensure you are using the most recent stable version of Minecraft.
• Import Failed: If the import fails, try restarting Minecraft PE and try again. If it continues to fail, the mod file may be corrupted or not be compatible with your current game version.
• Missing Textures or Models: This often indicates an issue with the resource pack of the mod. Ensure that the resource pack is enabled and that all the files are in the correct location. If extracting files from .zip, make sure you are not extracting folders inside folders. If this persists, then try re-downloading the mod from its source.
• Lag or Performance Issues: Some mods are resource-intensive and can cause performance issues, especially on older devices. Try disabling or removing the mod or playing in a new world and see if performance improves.

Tips for Managing Mods

• Keep a List: Keep a list of the mods you have installed and where you downloaded them from.
• One Mod at a Time: If you’re experiencing issues, try installing mods one at a time, instead of in groups. This can make the troubleshooting process easier.
• Regular Backups: If you play in survival worlds, make regular world backups to prevent data loss due to mod errors. You can do this by exporting the world from the ‘Edit’ menu for each world in Minecraft PE.
• Version Compatibility: Always make sure that the mod is compatible with your current Minecraft version. Use compatible versions to avoid crashes and gameplay issues.
• Clear Cache: From time to time, clear your Minecraft PE app’s cache and temporary files to prevent issues. Clearing the cache won’t delete your world or progress in the game.

Where to Find Safe Mods

As we’ve mentioned, not all mod sources are safe. Here are some trusted platforms:

• MCPEDL: One of the most popular websites for Minecraft PE mods, offering a vast library of mods, textures, and more.
• Minecraft Forums: The official Minecraft forums have a section dedicated to mods and addons for different platforms.
• Reputable Apps: Check out the Google Play Store or App Store for dedicated apps that provide a curated list of safe mods and addons. Always check app ratings and reviews before installing these apps.
• YouTube Channels: Many content creators showcase and review addons. This is a good way to find trending and well-made mods. However, be sure to check if the download link is on an official source or the creator’s official website and not a third party site.

Conclusion

Installing mods on Minecraft PE might seem intimidating at first, but by following these detailed steps, you’ll be able to enhance your gameplay experience on Android and iOS devices. Remember to download mods from trusted sources, be mindful of version compatibility, and always back up your worlds. With the ability to add new content, features, and mechanics, Minecraft PE mods will add a ton of hours of fun. Happy modding!