Pokémon GO Support Ending for Some Devices

Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Devices in 2025

A pair of upcoming updates to Pokemon GO will render the game unplayable on several older mobile devices, starting as early as March 2025. The changes primarily affect 32-bit Android devices, prompting players with affected phones to upgrade their hardware to continue their gameplay.

Launched in July 2016, Pokemon GO, a popular augmented reality game, boasts a significant player base. While its peak player count was reached in its initial year, the game remains highly active, with millions of players engaging monthly as of December 2024. However, Niantic's efforts to optimize the game for modern devices necessitate the termination of support for older 32-bit Android phones.

On January 9th, Niantic announced that upcoming updates in March and June 2025 will end support for specific devices. The first update impacts some Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store, with the second update specifically targeting 32-bit Android devices obtained via Google Play. While a complete list wasn't provided, affected devices include several models released before 2015, such as the Samsung Galaxy S4 and S5, and various models from Sony, Motorola, LG, OnePlus, HTC, and ZTE. Importantly, 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones will retain support.

Affected Devices (Partial List):

• Samsung Galaxy S4, S5, Note 3, J3
• Sony Xperia Z2, Z3
• Motorola Moto G (1st generation)
• LG Fortune, Tribute
• OnePlus One
• HTC One (M8)
• ZTE Overture 3
• Certain Android devices released before 2015

Players using affected devices are urged to save their login credentials. While they can access their accounts after upgrading their phones, gameplay will be unavailable until the upgrade is complete. This includes access to any purchased Pokecoins.

Despite this setback for some players, 2025 promises exciting developments for the broader Pokemon franchise. The release of Pokemon Legends: Z-A is anticipated, alongside rumored projects like Pokemon Black and White remakes and a new Let's Go series installment. Further details regarding Pokemon GO's future may be revealed at a rumored Pokemon Presents event on February 27th.