Minecraft: Java Edition just got two massive multiplayer features we’ve all wanted for years — it’s finally on par with Bedrock’s options, and could even work with mods
Minecraft: Java Edition is finally receiving two long-awaited multiplayer features: a Friends List and peer-to-peer (P2P) multiplayer connectivity. These additions, now available in the latest beta snapshot (26.2 Snapshot 7) for the next major update, bring Java Edition closer to feature parity with the Bedrock Edition.
Historically, Java Edition—the original version of the game—has been limited to Local Area Network (LAN) play or connections to online servers for multiplayer experiences, a significant gap compared to Bedrock Edition’s capabilities. The introduction of P2P multiplayer and an integrated Friends List addresses this long-standing community request, making Java Edition more accessible and user-friendly for multiplayer sessions.
The development team has indicated that these new multiplayer features could potentially integrate with Java Edition’s extensive modding ecosystem, opening new possibilities for community-created content and enhanced multiplayer experiences.
These additions represent a major step forward in bringing feature parity between Java and Bedrock editions. The features are currently in testing through snapshot builds, with wider availability expected in a future full release.