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, leaving long-time players with incompatible phones needing to upgrade to continue their gameplay.
Launched in July 2016, Pokemon GO celebrates its ninth anniversary this summer. While its peak popularity saw over 232 million active players in its first year, the game still boasts a substantial player base exceeding 110 million active users as of December 2024. However, Niantic's optimization efforts to improve performance on newer devices necessitate ending support for older models.
On January 9th, Niantic announced that several older Android phones will lose compatibility following updates in March and June 2025. The first update impacts certain Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store; the second targets 32-bit Android devices obtained via Google Play. While a complete list of affected devices isn't available, 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones are expected to remain supported.
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 with affected devices are urged to securely save their login credentials. While they can regain access after upgrading their phones, they will be temporarily locked out of their accounts, including any purchased Pokecoins, until the upgrade is complete.
Despite this setback for some players, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokemon franchise. The release of Pokemon Legends: Z-A is anticipated, alongside rumored projects like Pokemon Black and White remakes and a new Let's Go title. While Pokemon GO's 2025 plans remain unclear, a leaked February 27th Pokemon Presents event might reveal further details.
