Minecraft on iPhone and iPad is a paid App Store app, so there is no official way to get the full game for free on iOS. What you can do for free is play a Minecraft-style game in your browser. This guide covers both: how to buy and install the real Minecraft on iOS, and how to try the free browser alternative, MineCraft.io, with no download.
How to get Minecraft on iPhone or iPad (official app)
- Open the App Store on your iPhone or iPad.
- Search for “Minecraft” and pick the app published by Mojang.
- Tap the price button and confirm the purchase with Face ID, Touch ID or your Apple ID password.
- Wait for the download to finish, then open Minecraft from your home screen.
- Sign in with a Microsoft account if you want to play with friends or keep your worlds in sync.
Minecraft is a one-time purchase on iOS. The price shown on the button depends on your country, and the App Store page lists the minimum iOS version your device needs, so check it before you buy.
Is there a free Minecraft for iOS?
Not the official game. Be careful with sites or videos that promise a “free Minecraft download” or a modded app file for iPhone: they are not from Mojang and can put your device or Apple ID at risk. The safe free option is a browser game that plays in the same style.
Free alternative: play MineCraft.io in your browser
MineCraft.io (also written Mine-Craft.io) is a free Minecraft-style .io game: mine blocks, gather resources and build, with no download or install. It is an unofficial game from mine-craft.io, not Mojang’s Minecraft.
How to start a MineCraft.io session
- Open the MineCraft.io page on Gipcus and press Play.
- Pick a world or a mini-game lobby on the start screen.
- Move with W, A, S, D and look around with the mouse.
- Gather wood and stone first, then craft a basic axe and pickaxe.
- Find food and simple armor before night or before you explore caves.
| Minecraft (App Store) | MineCraft.io (browser) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Paid, one-time | Free |
| Made by | Mojang | mine-craft.io (unofficial) |
| Install | App download | None, runs in a browser tab |
| Best device | iPhone or iPad | Desktop or laptop browser |
iPhone note: MineCraft.io is built around keyboard and mouse controls, and our game page describes it as loading in a desktop browser. You can try it in Safari, but for the smoothest play use a computer.
For the full walkthrough, including the first five minutes, mining and mini-games, read our MineCraft.io guide: how to play, survive and build.
More free games like Minecraft
- Tribals.io: build a base and survive in a browser .io world.
- Krunker.io: a fast first-person shooter (controls and tips).
- Our full list of the best .io games online free.
FAQ
Can I get Minecraft for free on iPhone?
No. The official Minecraft app is a paid purchase on the App Store. Free browser games like MineCraft.io are a different, unofficial game.
Is MineCraft.io the real Minecraft?
No. It is a Minecraft-style .io browser game from mine-craft.io and is not made by Mojang.
Do I need to download MineCraft.io?
No. It runs in your browser on the Gipcus game page.
Do I have to buy Minecraft again on iPad if I own it on iPhone?
Apps you buy with your Apple ID can usually be downloaded again on your other Apple devices signed in with the same Apple ID. Check the App Store page if you are unsure.
