How to use MetaMask on your mobile phone?

Setting Up MetaMask on Mobile

1. Download the MetaMask app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, ensuring it’s the official version published by ConsenSys.

2. Open the app and tap “Get Started,” then select “Create a Wallet” to begin setting up your new account.

3. Enter a strong password that you will remember—this password encrypts your wallet data on your device.

4. Carefully review the warning screen about losing access if you forget your credentials; proceed only after understanding the risks.

5. Write down your 12-word recovery phrase in the exact order shown and store it securely offline—never share it or save it digitally.

Navigating the MetaMask Mobile Interface

1. After setup, you’ll land on the main dashboard showing your wallet balance, default Ethereum network, and token list.

2. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) to access settings, connected apps, browser, and wallet management tools.

3. Use the built-in dApp browser to visit decentralized applications like Uniswap or Aave directly from the app.

4. Switch between networks such as Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, or Arbitrum by tapping the network name at the top and selecting another from the list.

5. Add custom RPC networks manually under Settings > Networks > Add Network if they aren’t preloaded.

Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrency

1. To receive funds, tap the “Receive” button and display your public address as a QR code or copy it to share with others.

2. For outgoing transactions, tap “Send,” enter the recipient’s wallet address, choose the correct token, and specify the amount.

3. Review transaction details including gas fees before confirming—these fees fluctuate based on network congestion.

4. Confirm the transfer using your password or biometric authentication if enabled.

5. Track pending and completed transactions in the activity tab, which logs all incoming and outgoing movements.

Connecting to Decentralized Applications (dApps)

1. Open the in-app browser and navigate to a supported dApp such as OpenSea, Curve Finance, or MakerDAO.

2. When prompted, allow MetaMask to connect by selecting your wallet address and approving the connection request.

3. Some dApps may request permission to view your balance or initiate transactions—review each request carefully.

4. Once connected, you can interact with smart contracts, swap tokens, stake assets, or participate in governance votes.

5. Disconnect from dApps through the Connections tab in settings after use to reduce exposure to potential exploits.

Security Best Practices for Mobile Users

1. Enable biometric login (fingerprint or face recognition) in Settings > Security for faster yet secure access.

2. Regularly update the MetaMask app to benefit from security patches and feature improvements.

3. Avoid using public Wi-Fi when accessing your wallet; consider enabling a mobile VPN for added protection.

4. Periodically audit connected dApps and revoke access from those no longer in use via Settings > Connected Sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I import an existing MetaMask wallet into the mobile app?Yes, during setup, choose “Import Wallet” instead of creating a new one, then enter your 12-word recovery phrase and set a password.

Is it safe to keep large amounts of crypto in MetaMask on mobile?MetaMask is a hot wallet, meaning it's internet-connected. While convenient, it's less secure than hardware wallets for storing significant holdings.

What should I do if I lose my phone with MetaMask installed?If you have your recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on another device. Immediately stop using the lost device and consider transferring funds once restored.

Why does MetaMask ask for permissions when connecting to dApps?dApps require permission to read your account address and sign transactions. These permissions are standard but must be granted consciously to avoid malicious sites.