Screens are black or blank
MCEF hasn't finished downloading Chromium, or its version doesn't match. Wait for the first-run download, then confirm the MCEF build the WebDisplays listing asks for.
How to install Web Displays Mod
Step-by-step setup for Windows, macOS and Linux, plus what Android and iOS players need to know. Budget about five minutes.
Before you start
Three things to have ready.
Minecraft Java Edition
The mod doesn't run on Bedrock, consoles or phones.
Forge for your version
Download it from the official Forge site. Fabric only if the listing offers a Fabric file.
WebDisplays + MCEF
Both jars from the download page, matched to your version.
Choose your operating system
- Install ForgeDownload the Forge installer for your exact Minecraft version from files.minecraftforge.net, run it and choose Install client.
- Launch onceStart the new Forge profile in the Minecraft Launcher and quit at the title screen. This creates the mods folder.
- Open the mods folderPress Win + R, type
%appdata%\.minecraft\modsand press Enter. - Add both jarsDrop in the WebDisplays jar and the matching MCEF jar. Newer ports need MCEF as a separate download.
- Launch and waitOn first launch MCEF downloads its Chromium runtime. Let the progress finish before placing a screen.
- Install ForgeRun the Forge installer (you may need to right-click and choose Open the first time) and select Install client.
- Launch onceStart the Forge profile, reach the title screen, then quit.
- Open the mods folderIn Finder press Cmd + Shift + G and go to
~/Library/Application Support/minecraft/mods. - Add both jarsCopy in WebDisplays and MCEF. On Apple silicon, use an MCEF build that lists macOS arm64 support.
- Allow network accessIf macOS asks whether Java may accept connections, allow it so the embedded browser can load pages.
- Install ForgeRun
java -jar forge-installer.jarand choose Install client, or use a launcher such as Prism Launcher. - Find the mods folderThe default path is
~/.minecraft/mods; Prism and MultiMC keep one per instance. - Add both jarsCopy WebDisplays and MCEF into the folder.
- Check librariesChromium needs common system libraries such as libnss3. If screens stay black, search
latest.logfor a missing library. - Launch and waitLet the first-run Chromium download complete, then place your first screen.
- Know the limitMinecraft on Android is Bedrock Edition (MCPE), which cannot load Java mods like WebDisplays.
- Skip fake APKsAny 'WebDisplays APK' or MCPE add-on claiming to be this mod is unofficial and may be unsafe.
- Use a PC for the real thingInstall on Windows, macOS or Linux and join a friend's server to see screens in action.
- Try Bedrock-friendly optionsLook for add-ons that show static images or map art. Read our Bedrock guide.
- Know the limitiPhone and iPad run Bedrock Edition only, so Java mods cannot be installed.
- Avoid profile or IPA 'mods'Anything asking you to install a configuration profile or sideload an IPA for WebDisplays is not legitimate.
- Play on desktopRun the mod on a computer and use your iOS device for the Minecraft wiki or voice chat instead.
- Stay updatedIf an official Bedrock option ever appears we will cover it on the blog.
Installing on Fabric
WebDisplays is Forge-first. If the official listing has a Fabric file for your version, install Fabric Loader and Fabric API, then add WebDisplays and its listed dependencies. If there's no Fabric file, there's no official Fabric build, and repackaged jars aren't worth the risk.
Read the full breakdown in Install WebDisplays on Forge and Fabric.
Troubleshooting
The six errors we see most, with fixes. For step-by-step help read how to fix a WebDisplays black screen.
Game crashes on startup
Almost always a version mismatch. Match Minecraft, Forge, WebDisplays and MCEF exactly, and check the crash report's top lines.
Video plays with no sound
Check the screen's volume settings and Minecraft's master volume. Some sites need a click on the page before audio starts.
Keyboard doesn't type
Link the keyboard to the screen with the Linker item and make sure you own the screen or have permission.
Netflix or similar won't load
These use DRM that embedded Chromium doesn't include. Use sources without DRM, such as YouTube.
Heavy FPS drops
Lower screen resolution, pause off-screen videos and cap how many screens play at once.
Known issues
- Some sites detect the embedded browser as outdated and show a warning.
- Screens can briefly flicker after changing dimensions or resolution.
- Mixing shader packs with many active screens may cost more FPS than expected.
Performance tips
- Allocate 6 to 8 GB RAM to the modpack, not more.
- Set most screens to 720p and keep 1080p for your main cinema wall.
- Use static or dark pages for idle screens.
- Close the Chromium dev pages you don't need.