Pokémon GO Ending Support Update

Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Devices in 2025

Several older mobile devices will soon lose compatibility with Pokemon GO, impacting players using 32-bit Android phones. Niantic, the game developer, announced that updates scheduled for March and June 2025 will end support for these devices. This affects a significant number of older Android models, though 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones will remain compatible.

This news comes as Pokemon GO approaches its ninth anniversary. While the game maintains a substantial player base exceeding 110 million monthly active users (as of December 2024), players on affected devices will be unable to access their accounts until upgrading to a compatible phone. Niantic advises players to safeguard their login credentials before the updates.

Affected Devices (Partial List):

The provided list isn't exhaustive, but includes:

• 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

The phased rollout will begin in March 2025 with updates affecting some Samsung Galaxy Store downloads, followed by a June 2025 update targeting 32-bit Android devices from Google Play. Players on affected devices will be locked out until they upgrade their hardware.

While this change is undoubtedly frustrating for some players, 2025 promises to be an exciting year for the broader Pokemon franchise. Highly anticipated releases like Pokemon Legends: Z-A are on the horizon, alongside rumored projects such as Pokemon Black and White remakes and a potential new Let's Go title. Further details regarding Pokemon GO's future may be revealed at a rumored Pokemon Presents event on February 27th.