Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Devices in 2025
Several older mobile devices will lose compatibility with Pokemon GO following upcoming updates in March and June 2025. This change primarily affects 32-bit Android devices, leaving many long-time players needing to upgrade their phones to continue playing.
Pokemon GO, a popular augmented reality game celebrating its ninth anniversary this summer, boasts a substantial player base. While the game's peak player count was significantly higher in its initial year, it continues to maintain a strong following with over 110 million active players in December 2024.
However, Niantic's efforts to optimize the game for newer devices necessitate the discontinuation of support for older models. The official announcement on January 9th detailed that the March and June updates will phase out compatibility for specific devices, starting with certain Samsung Galaxy Store downloads in March, followed by 32-bit Android devices downloaded via Google Play in June.
While a complete list of affected devices wasn't provided, Niantic confirmed that 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones will remain supported. Some examples of unsupported devices include:
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 safeguard their login credentials. While account access will be restored after upgrading to a compatible device, access will be unavailable until the upgrade is complete, including any purchased Pokecoins.
Despite this setback for some players, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokemon franchise. Anticipated releases include Pokemon Legends: Z-A (pending a confirmed release date) and rumored titles such as Pokemon Black and White remakes and a new Let's Go installment. Further details regarding Pokemon GO's future may be revealed during a rumored Pokemon Presents event on February 27th.
