Pokémon GO to Drop Support for Outdated Devices

Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Devices in 2025

Upcoming updates to Pokemon GO will render the game unplayable on several older mobile devices, starting as early as March 2025. This change primarily affects 32-bit Android devices, prompting players with affected phones to upgrade to continue their gameplay.

Pokemon GO, the popular augmented reality game, launched in July 2016 and has maintained a significant player base. While its peak popularity saw millions of active players, it still boasts a substantial number of active users in late 2024. However, Niantic's optimization efforts for newer devices mean that support for older models will cease.

On January 9th, Niantic announced that two upcoming updates (March and June 2025) will end support for specific older Android phones. The first update impacts some Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store, while the second targets 32-bit Android devices obtained via Google Play. A partial list of affected devices includes:

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
• Certain Android devices released before 2015

Players using these devices 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. This includes any purchased Pokecoins.

Although this news is undoubtedly frustrating for some players, 2025 promises to be an exciting year for the Pokemon franchise. Anticipated releases like Pokemon Legends: Z-A (pending release date) and rumored titles, such as Pokemon Black and White remakes and a new Let's Go installment, are on the horizon. Further information regarding Pokemon GO's future may be revealed during a rumored Pokemon Presents event on February 27th.