Support Ending for Pokémon GO Devices

Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Devices in 2025

Upcoming updates to Pokemon GO will end support for certain older mobile devices, impacting players using 32-bit Android phones. This change, scheduled for March and June 2025, will render the game unplayable on affected devices. Players using these devices are urged to back up their login credentials and upgrade their phones to maintain access to their accounts and game progress.

Pokemon GO, the popular augmented reality game, launched in July 2016 and continues to maintain a significant player base. While its peak player numbers were recorded in its first year, millions still actively play the game. However, Niantic's efforts to optimize the game for modern devices necessitate this change, ending support for older 32-bit Android models.

The official announcement, made on January 9th, detailed the impending updates and their impact. The first update, in March 2025, will affect some Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store. A second update in June 2025 will specifically target 32-bit Android devices obtained through Google Play. While a complete list of affected devices wasn't provided, Niantic confirmed that 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones will remain compatible.

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
• Various Android devices released before 2015

Players whose devices are affected are advised to save their login information. While they can access their accounts after upgrading to a compatible phone, they won't be able to play until they do so. This includes any purchased in-game currency (Pokecoins).

Despite this disruption for some players, 2025 promises exciting developments for the wider Pokemon franchise. The release of Pokemon Legends: Z-A is anticipated, along with rumored projects like remakes of Pokemon Black and White, and a potential new entry in the Let's Go series. The future of Pokemon GO itself remains to be seen, but a leaked date for a Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th may offer further details.