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 impacts 32-bit Android devices, leaving many long-time players needing to upgrade their phones to continue their gameplay.

The immensely popular augmented reality game, launched in July 2016, boasts a substantial player base, exceeding 110 million active players in December 2024 alone. However, Niantic's efforts to optimize the game for modern devices necessitate the discontinuation of support for older hardware.

On January 9th, Niantic announced that two upcoming updates, scheduled for March and June 2025, will end support for specific devices. The first update affects some Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store, while the second targets 32-bit Android devices obtained via Google Play. While a complete list isn't provided, affected devices include, but aren't limited to:

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
• Several 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 device, 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 broader Pokemon franchise. Highly anticipated titles like Pokemon Legends: Z-A await release, alongside rumored projects such as Pokemon Black and White remakes and a potential new entry in the Let's Go series. Further announcements regarding Pokemon GO's future are expected, possibly at a rumored Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th.