Pokemon GO to End Support for Select Devices Soon

Summary

• Pokemon GO will soon be unplayable on some older mobile devices following updates that will end support for 32-bit Android devices.
• Players using affected devices should save their login information and consider upgrading their phones to continue playing after the updates in March and June 2025.
• Despite the inconvenience, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokemon franchise, including planned and rumored game releases.

Pokemon GO enthusiasts, prepare for change: starting in March 2025, the beloved augmented reality game will no longer be playable on certain older mobile devices. Specifically, those using 32-bit Android devices will find themselves unable to access the game following a series of updates. If you've been holding onto your older phone model, it might be time to consider an upgrade if you wish to continue your Pokemon-catching adventures.

Since its launch in July 2016, Pokemon GO has captivated players worldwide, encouraging them to explore the real world in search of new Pokemon to catch and battle. Celebrating its ninth anniversary this summer, the game saw a peak of around 232 million active players in its debut year. Even now, it remains incredibly popular, with over 110 million active players reported in the 30 days leading up to December 2024.

However, Niantic, the game's developer, is set to end service for 32-bit Android devices to improve the game's performance on more current models. On January 9, the official Pokemon GO website announced that updates scheduled for March and June 2025 will render several older phone models incompatible with the game. The first update will impact Android devices that downloaded the game from the Samsung Galaxy store, while the second will affect 32-bit Android devices that got Pokemon GO through Google Play. A list of affected phones includes:

• 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

The development team advises affected players to save their login information securely. While you won't be able to access your account until you upgrade to a supported device, your account, including any purchased Pokecoins, will remain intact.

Although this news may be disappointing for some, the Pokemon franchise is gearing up for an exciting 2025. Fans can look forward to Pokemon Legends: Z-A, with a confirmed release date on the horizon, and rumors swirling about potential remakes of Pokemon Black and White and a new entry in the Let's Go series. While specific details about Pokemon GO's 2025 plans remain under wraps, a rumored Pokemon Presents event scheduled for February 27 might shed more light on what's to come.

Stay tuned for updates and get ready for what promises to be a thrilling year for Pokemon fans!