Pokémon GO Drops Devices: End of Support Announced

Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Devices in 2025

Starting in March and June 2025, Pokemon GO will no longer be compatible with certain older mobile devices, specifically 32-bit Android phones. Players using affected devices are urged to back up their login information and upgrade their phones to continue their gameplay.

This change affects a range of older Android models, impacting long-time players who may need to consider a phone upgrade. While the game launched in July 2016 and enjoyed immense popularity (peaking at around 232 million active players in its first year), it maintains a substantial player base, exceeding 110 million active players in December 2024. However, this update, aimed at improving performance on newer devices, will unfortunately exclude some players.

Niantic, the game developer, announced on January 9th that the upcoming updates will end support for various older phones. The first update (March 2025) impacts some Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store, followed by a second update (June 2025) specifically targeting 32-bit Android devices downloaded via Google Play. While a complete list hasn't been provided, 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
• Certain Android devices released before 2015

Players whose devices are affected are advised to save their login details. While they can access their accounts after upgrading to a compatible phone, they won't be able to play until the upgrade is complete, including any purchased Pokecoins.

Despite this setback for some players, 2025 promises exciting developments for the broader Pokemon franchise. Highly anticipated releases like Pokemon Legends: Z-A are on the horizon, along with rumored remakes of Pokemon Black and White and a potential new Let's Go title. A rumored Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th may reveal further details regarding Pokemon GO's future.