Pokémon GO to Cease Support on Select Devices

Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Android Devices in 2025

Several older mobile devices will lose compatibility with Pokemon GO following upcoming updates in March and June 2025. This change specifically affects 32-bit Android devices, leaving many long-time players needing to upgrade their phones to continue their gameplay.

Pokemon GO, the popular augmented reality game, launched in July 2016 and boasts a substantial player base. While its peak player count was significantly higher in its initial year, it maintains a strong following with over 110 million active players in December 2024. However, this update will impact a segment of this player base.

Niantic, the game developer, announced on January 9th that the upcoming updates will improve performance on modern devices but necessitate ending support for older 32-bit Android phones. The first update (March 2025) will affect some Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy store, with the second (June 2025) targeting 32-bit Android devices from Google Play.

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 using affected 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, including any purchased Pokecoins.

Despite this disruption, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokemon franchise. Highly anticipated releases like Pokemon Legends: Z-A are on the horizon, alongside rumored titles such as Pokemon Black and White remakes and a potential new Let's Go series entry. While Pokemon GO's future plans remain unclear, a potential Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th might offer further details.