Pokemon GO Ending Support for Some Devices Soon

Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Devices in 2025

Starting March and June 2025, Pokemon GO will cease supporting certain older mobile devices due to upcoming updates. This change primarily affects 32-bit Android devices, leaving many long-time players needing to upgrade their phones to continue their gameplay.

Pokemon GO, a hugely popular augmented reality game, launched in July 2016 and boasts a significant player base. While initial player numbers peaked at around 232 million, the game still maintains over 110 million active players (December 2024 data). However, this update will impact a portion of this player base.

Niantic's decision to end support for 32-bit Android devices aims to optimize the game's performance on newer hardware. The official announcement on January 9th detailed that updates in March and June 2025 will render some older devices incompatible. The first update targets specific Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store; the second update specifically targets 32-bit Android devices from Google Play.

While a complete list of affected devices isn't provided, Niantic confirmed that 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones will remain supported. Some examples of unsupported devices include:

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 advised to back up their login credentials. While they can access their accounts after upgrading, access will be unavailable until a compatible device is obtained. This includes any purchased Pokecoins.

Despite the inconvenience for some, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokemon franchise. Highly anticipated titles like Pokemon Legends: Z-A (release date pending) and rumored remakes of Pokemon Black and White, along with a potential new Let's Go installment, are on the horizon. Further Pokemon GO updates may be revealed at a rumored Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th.