Free launcher for Minecraft Java version
PojavLauncher is a game utility developed by ArtDeell. This free app is a Minecraft launcher created in Java. With this, you can run the Java version of the popular sandbox game from practically any Android device.
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PojavLauncher can run older versions of Minecraft from 1.12.2 onwards. The app is also easy to use and is compatible with Microsoft accounts. However, it should be pointed out that this is an unofficial development maintained for altruistic reasons. With this, expect issues once it is running. Your game might be interrupted abruptly or the app might stop altogether.
What is PojavLauncher?
Minecraft has been in the game market for so long, but the sandbox video game doesn't seem to get old. Despite similar games sprouting from other developers, it enjoys robust health in terms of users. To date, there are various versions that you can play. However, some versions require launchers. And those who use the Android versions can download PojavLauncher if they wish to recover previous iterations.
As mentioned, this app is a Java-based launcher that enables users to run older versions of Minecraft from 1.12.2 onwards. Using the app is simple, as all you need to do is log in with your Mojang ID. You can also use your Microsoft account. It also allows you to store more than one account on its system. You can even use mods to customize your gaming experience.
Once logged in, press the play button for Minecraft to run automatically. However, as noted, the app is not from the official developer. Players may experience performance issues while using it. Not only that, but if you are running Minecraft higher than 1.12.2, your device should have 4GB RAM. Moreover, while it can run on practically any smart device, the app has problems with some phone models.
Development status and project continuation
Despite PojavLauncher’s long run as a popular Java Edition launcher for Android, the original project was discontinued and archived in late 2025—meaning official updates from the original developers have stopped. However, the community and forks of the project continue to thrive, offering improved and updated builds that extend compatibility with newer Minecraft versions and add extra features. For players who love mobile Java Minecraft, this transition from a single launcher to a broader ecosystem of related tools keeps the experience alive.
Latest feature improvements in recent builds
Recent community builds of PojavLauncher—such as the Gladiolus update—have brought several quality-of-life improvements. These include a new renderer compatible with modern graphics systems, fixes for control layout problems, smoother launcher UI behavior, and updated localizations that make the app easier to navigate. These enhancements help improve overall stability and usability, especially for players running Minecraft 1.17+ versions on mobile.
Enhanced mod and version support
While the core review mentions mod support, newer builds of the launcher and community variants now offer better integration for major mod loaders like Forge and Fabric. These updates make it easier to install and use mods just like on PC, and many users report success in adding popular resource packs, shaders, and custom elements through these loaders. Additionally, the launcher continues to support multiple Minecraft versions—from legacy builds to modern releases—giving players flexibility in what era of Minecraft they want to explore.
Community-inspired alternative launchers
Because the program itself has been discontinued, new community-inspired alternatives like MojoLauncher are gaining traction. MojoLauncher builds on the foundation of PojavLauncher but offers ongoing development, broader version support (including snapshots), and easier mod installation, helping players enjoy a smoother Minecraft Java Edition experience on mobile devices. These alternatives keep the mobile Java gameplay ecosystem vibrant even without official updates from the original project.
Is the app good?
Overall, PojavLauncher is a handy tool to have for hardcore Minecraft players. With the launcher, you can run any previous versions of the game on your smart device. The app is easy to use as it runs the game automatically upon logging in. However, as this is an unofficial app, expect some issues. Moreover, its performance depends on the device you are using and the game version you are playing.
