Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Android Devices in 2025
Pokemon GO players using older Android devices face an upcoming challenge. Niantic, the game developer, announced that upcoming updates in March and June 2025 will end support for 32-bit Android devices. This means millions of players could lose access unless they upgrade their phones.
This change affects a range of older models, impacting players who may have been enjoying the game for years. While the game launched in July 2016 and saw peak player numbers exceeding 232 million in its first year, it maintains a substantial player base, with over 110 million active players in December 2024. However, this update will significantly impact a portion of that player base.
The January 9th announcement detailed that the updates will phase out support. The March update will affect some Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy store, while the June update targets 32-bit Android devices obtained via Google Play. Niantic provided a partial list of affected devices, including but not limited to: 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; and certain Android devices released before 2015. 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones remain supported.
Players affected are urged to safeguard their login credentials. While they can regain access after upgrading their phones, they will be temporarily locked out, including any purchased Pokecoins.
Despite this inconvenience, 2025 promises exciting developments for the broader Pokémon franchise. The release of Pokémon Legends: Z-A is anticipated, and rumors circulate about potential remakes of Pokémon Black and White, and a new entry in the Let's Go series. While the future of Pokemon GO's content remains unclear, a rumored Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th may shed more light on upcoming plans.
