How to Install Mumble server on Ubuntu and use Mumble on Android and IOS

Alternative voice over IP comunication platform

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Mumble is a free and open-source voice over IP (VoIP) application designed primarily for real-time voice communication. It uses a client-server architecture where users connect to a shared server to talk with each other.

Mumble is highly valued for its low latency and high audio quality, making it popular among gamers, remote teams, and online communities.

Mumble Key Features:

  • Low-Latency Communication: Enables real-time conversation with minimal delay, similar to a traditional phone call.
  • High Sound Quality: Utilizes the Opus audio codec to ensure clear audio transmission.
  • Encryption: All communications are encrypted, ensuring privacy and security.
  • Cross-Platform: Clients are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, supporting broad accessibility.
  • Scalability: Servers (called “Murmur”) can manage thousands of simultaneous users, making Mumble suitable for both small groups and large communities.
  • Flexible Permissions and Channels: Advanced user permission system with hierarchical channels supporting various use cases, including large gaming groups and remote work teams.

The main goal of Mumble is to provide an open, high-quality, and secure solution for voice communication, especially in scenarios demanding real-time interaction and low delays—such as multiplayer gaming, collaborative work, and virtual meetings. It aims to fill the need for a customizable, privacy-focused, and free alternative to proprietary voice chat solutions.

phone talk mumble

To install a Mumble server on Ubuntu and connect with iOS and Android clients, follow these steps:

1. Install the Mumble Server (Murmur) on Ubuntu

  • Update your Ubuntu server:

    sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade -y

  • Install the Mumble server package:

    sudo apt-get install mumble-server -y

  • Run the configuration wizard to set up your server:

    sudo dpkg-reconfigure mumble-server
    • Choose Yes to start the server on boot.
    • Choose Yes to give the server high priority (for low latency).
    • Set a SuperUser password for administrative tasks.[9]

  • Optional: Edit the configuration file if you want to customize port, server name, message, etc.

    sudo nano /etc/mumble-server.ini

    Save and exit when done.

  • Start (or restart) the server:

    sudo service mumble-server start

2. Setup Clients on iOS and Android

  • iOS: Download the free “Mumble” client from the App Store.
  • Android: Download “Plumble” or “Mumble” (various clients available) from Google Play.

How to Connect:

  • Open the Mumble client app.
  • Add a new server connection using your Ubuntu server’s external IP address or domain name.
  • Enter the port (default is 64738), username, and password (if set).
  • Connect. You should now be in your Mumble server’s chat room.

3. Additional Tips

  • For internet access, forward port 64738 (UDP/TCP) on your router to your Ubuntu server.
  • Use the SuperUser account for advanced server admin tasks.

After these steps, you can chat seamlessly from desktops, iOS, and Android devices using your own private server.