Pokemon GO Ending Support for Some Devices Soon

Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Devices in 2025

Upcoming updates to Pokemon GO will render the game unplayable on several older mobile devices, starting as early as March 2025. This change primarily affects 32-bit Android devices, leaving long-time players with outdated phones needing to upgrade to continue their gameplay.

Pokemon GO, the popular augmented reality game celebrating its ninth anniversary this summer, maintains a substantial player base. However, Niantic's efforts to optimize the game for newer devices necessitate ending support for older models. A January 9th announcement detailed that two updates, scheduled for March and June 2025, will remove compatibility with specific 32-bit Android phones. The first update impacts certain Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store; the second targets 32-bit Android devices using Google Play.

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

Affected 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
• Various Android devices released before 2015

Players using affected devices are urged to securely save their login credentials. While account access will be restored after upgrading to a compatible phone, gameplay will be unavailable until the upgrade is complete. This includes access to any purchased Pokecoins.

Despite this setback for some players, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokemon franchise. The release of Pokemon Legends: Z-A is anticipated, along with rumored remakes of Pokemon Black and White and a potential new Let's Go series entry. Further details regarding Pokemon GO's future may emerge from a rumored Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th.