Summary
- Pokemon GO will soon be unplayable on some older mobile devices due to updates ending support for 32-bit Android devices.
- Players using affected devices should save their login information and upgrade their phones to continue playing after the updates in March and June 2025.
- Despite this, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokemon franchise with planned and rumored game releases.
Pokemon GO is set to become unplayable on several older mobile devices starting in March 2025. This change will impact 32-bit Android devices, meaning fans who haven't upgraded their phones in a while may need to consider a new device to continue their adventures in the game.
As an augmented reality walking game that encourages players to explore the real world to catch and battle Pokemon, Pokemon GO celebrates its ninth anniversary this summer, having been launched in July 2016. Despite a peak of 232 million active players during its debut year, the game remains popular, with over 110 million active players reported in December 2024.
However, to enhance the gaming experience on newer devices, Niantic has decided to end support for 32-bit Android phones. The official Pokemon GO website announced on January 9 that certain older phone models will lose support after updates scheduled for March and June 2025. The first update will impact Android devices that downloaded the game from the Samsung Galaxy store, while the second will affect 32-bit Android devices from Google Play. The development team has listed some of the affected phones, though the list is not exhaustive. Notably, 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones will continue to be supported.
Pokemon GO Ending Support for the Following Devices
- 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
The developers advise affected players to save their login information, as they will still be able to access their accounts after upgrading to a compatible device. However, until they upgrade, they won't be able to play or access any purchased Pokecoins.
While this news may disappoint some players, 2025 is shaping up to be a significant year for the Pokemon franchise. Anticipated releases include Pokemon Legends: Z-A, and rumors suggest potential remakes of Pokemon Black and White and a new Let's Go series installment. Although specifics for Pokemon GO in 2025 remain unclear, a rumored Pokemon Presents event on February 27 may reveal more details.
