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Pokémon GO to Drop Support for Older Android Devices in 2025
Pokémon GO players using older Android devices will soon face an end to their gameplay. Two upcoming updates, scheduled for March and June 2025, will cease support for 32-bit Android devices. This means millions of players may need to upgrade their phones to continue their Pokémon journey.
The popular augmented reality game, launched in July 2016, boasts a substantial player base. While its peak popularity saw over 232 million active users in its first year, December 2024 data still indicates over 110 million active players within the past month. However, this update will directly impact a segment of this player base.
Niantic, the game's developer, announced on January 9th that the updates are necessary to optimize the game's performance on modern devices. The first update will affect some Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store, while the second will target 32-bit Android devices obtained via Google Play.
While a complete list of affected devices hasn't been released, Niantic confirmed that the following models will lose compatibility:
- 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 using these devices are urged to save their login credentials. While they can access their accounts after upgrading to a compatible device, they will be unable to play until the upgrade is complete. This includes access to any purchased Pokécoins.
Despite this setback for some players, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokémon franchise. The highly anticipated Pokémon Legends: Z-A awaits a release date, and rumors circulate about potential remakes of Pokémon Black and White, as well as a new entry in the Let's Go series. A leaked date for a Pokémon Presents showcase on February 27th may shed further light on future Pokémon GO updates.