Minecraft Earth Android pre-register now live, beta likely imminent

What you need to know

  • Minecraft Earth Android pre-registration is now live via the Google Play Store.
  • The upcoming closed beta test looks just around the corner for Android users.

Microsoft has opened pre-registration for Minecraft Earth, its upcoming augmented reality-powered spin on the blockbuster adventure series. Closed tests remain ongoing for iOS devices in five cities across the globe, with preparations now seemingly underway for a broader rollout in the weeks ahead.

Minecraft Earth pre-registration remains purely optional ahead of launch, given the free-to-play nature of the app once it makes a public launch. Dropping your interest locks you into future updates surrounding the game's launch, with a notification once available to download. However, pre-registration remains separate from existing closed beta signups, providing the chance to play early.

Related: A month with Minecraft Earth: Is it the next Pokémon GO?

The appearance of pre-registration also signals welcome news for Minecraft Earth beta applicants on Android, indicating tests will soon expand to the other side. Google Play Console guidelines mandate that developers must have an APK (Android's file format for mobile app distribution) uploaded to at least one release track to use the pre-register feature. These tracks provide means to serve closed tests of unreleased apps, indicating the promised Android beta test this summer isn't far away.

Minecraft Earth will require an Android device running Android 7 Nougat or later, alongside support for Android's ARCore augmented reality platform. Android's open nature makes it harder to identify all Android 7+ phones compatible, although most released in recent years are covered. You can check if your Android phone meets Minecraft Earth's requirements here.

Minecraft Earth tests have been underway for one month on iOS, providing a taste of the full experience. Tapping into physical location data, players scavenge resources in the real world, while leveraging mobile AR to scale towering structures. The game is shaping up as a natural extension of the block-building phenomenon, potentially mirroring the successes of Pokemon GO.

In the meantime, Minecraft Earth Android pre-registration is live via the Google Play Store.

Essential Minecraft Earth accessories you'll love

These affordable Minecraft Earth accessories are guaranteed to help on your digital adventures.

Anker PowerCore 5000 Portable Charger ($18 at Amazon)

Like any augmented reality experience, Minecraft Earth will be power-hungry and drain your battery fast. This 5000mAh Anker PowerCore portable battery pack keeps phone topped up when on the move with a compact, cylindrical silhouette.

PopSockets Collapsible Grip & Stand ($10 at Amazon)

Avoid phone drops on your blocky adventures with this collapsible PopSocket grip that doubles as a stand. Grippy and comfortable to hold, it adds convenience and peace of mind to any Minecraft Earth session.

Minecraft Baby Pig 7" Plush ($10 at Amazon)

Grab your own porky Minecraft Earth companion with this affordable official Minecraft Baby Pig plush. Lined with a soft exterior and embroidered pixel detailing, don't miss out on your seven-inch friend.

Matt Brown

Matt Brown was formerly a Windows Central's Senior Editor, Xbox & PC, at Future. Following over seven years of professional consumer technology and gaming coverage, he’s focused on the world of Microsoft's gaming efforts. You can follow him on Twitter @mattjbrown.