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 millions of players needing to upgrade their phones to continue playing.
Pokemon GO, a globally popular augmented reality game, launched in July 2016 and has maintained a substantial player base. While its peak player count was recorded in its first year, millions remain active as of December 2024. However, Niantic's upcoming updates, aimed at optimizing the game for newer hardware, will render some older devices incompatible.
The January 9th announcement on the official Pokemon GO website detailed the upcoming changes. The first update (March 2025) impacts specific Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store. The second (June 2025) will disable access for 32-bit Android devices obtained via Google Play. While a complete list of affected devices wasn't provided, the announcement specifically mentioned several models including:
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 safeguard their login credentials. While they can resume playing after upgrading to a compatible device, access will be temporarily unavailable until the upgrade is complete. This includes any purchased Pokecoins.
Despite this disruption, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokemon franchise. The release of Pokemon Legends: Z-A is anticipated, alongside rumored projects such as Pokemon Black and White remakes and a potential new Let's Go title. While Pokemon GO's future plans remain unclear, a rumored Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th might reveal further details.
