Pokémon GO Drops Support for Older Devices

Summary

• Starting in March and June 2025, Pokemon GO will no longer support 32-bit Android devices due to upcoming updates.
• Players using affected devices should save their login information and upgrade their phones to continue playing.
• Despite this change, 2025 promises exciting new Pokemon game releases, including Pokemon Legends: Z-A and rumored remakes.

Pokemon GO is dropping support for several older mobile devices, beginning as early as March 2025. This primarily affects 32-bit Android devices, meaning long-time players with older phones may need to upgrade to continue their adventures.

Launched in July 2016, Pokemon GO quickly became a global phenomenon, boasting millions of active players in its early years. While its player base has stabilized, it still maintains a significant following, with over 110 million active players reported in December 2024.

However, Niantic's efforts to optimize the game for modern devices necessitate ending support for older 32-bit Android phones. An announcement on January 9th detailed that two updates, in March and June 2025, will remove compatibility. The first update impacts some Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store; the second specifically targets 32-bit Android devices from Google Play. While a complete list of affected devices wasn't provided, 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones will 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
• Certain Android devices released before 2015

Niantic advises affected players to securely save their login credentials. While they can access their accounts after upgrading their phones, they won't be able to play until they have a compatible device. This includes any purchased Pokecoins.

This change is undoubtedly disappointing for some players, but 2025 looks promising for the broader Pokemon franchise. Pokemon Legends: Z-A is anticipated, and rumors suggest remakes of Pokemon Black and White, plus a new Let's Go title. The future of Pokemon GO remains to be seen, but a potential Pokemon Presents event on February 27th may shed more light.