Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Devices in 2025
Several older mobile devices will soon lose compatibility with Pokémon GO. Two upcoming updates, slated for March and June 2025, will end support for 32-bit Android devices. This means players using affected devices will need to upgrade to continue their Pokémon journey.
Pokémon GO, a location-based augmented reality game, launched in July 2016 and boasts a substantial player base. While its peak popularity saw over 232 million active players, it still maintains a strong following with over 110 million active players in December 2024. However, this change will impact a segment of this player base.
Niantic, the game developer, announced on January 9th that the updates are necessary to optimize the game's performance on modern devices. While a complete list of affected devices isn't provided, the announcement specifies that 32-bit Android devices obtained via Google Play, and some Samsung Galaxy Store downloads, will lose access. The developers confirmed that 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones will remain supported.
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 urged to securely save their login credentials. While they can regain access after upgrading their phones, they won't be able to play until the upgrade is complete, including any purchased in-game currency (Pokécoins).
Despite this disruption, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokémon franchise. The release of Pokémon Legends: Z-A is anticipated, alongside rumored remakes of Pokémon Black and White, and a potential new Let's Go title. A potential Pokémon Presents showcase on February 27th may offer further details on future Pokémon GO updates.
