Pokémon GO discontinues support for older devices

Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Android Devices in 2025

A pair of upcoming updates to Pokemon GO will render the game unplayable on a range of older mobile devices, specifically impacting 32-bit Android users. These changes, slated for March and June 2025, necessitate an upgrade for affected players wishing to continue their Pokemon journey.

The popular augmented reality game, celebrating its ninth anniversary this summer, boasts a substantial player base. While peak player numbers reached 232 million in its first year, December 2024 data still indicates over 110 million active players within the preceding month. However, this active player count will be reduced following the removal of support for older devices.

Niantic's decision to discontinue support for 32-bit Android devices aims to optimize the game's performance on more current hardware. The official announcement on January 9th detailed the impending changes, affecting devices that downloaded the game via the Samsung Galaxy Store (in March) and Google Play (in June). While a complete list of affected devices wasn't provided, the announcement confirmed that 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones will remain compatible.

Affected Devices Include (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 using affected devices are urged to securely save their login credentials. While account access will be restored upon upgrading to a compatible device, access will be unavailable between the March and June updates. This includes any purchased Pokecoins.

Despite this disruption, 2025 promises a significant year for the broader Pokemon franchise. Highly anticipated titles like Pokemon Legends: Z-A await release, alongside rumored projects including Pokemon Black and White remakes and a potential new Let's Go installment. While Pokemon GO's future plans remain somewhat unclear, a leaked February 27th date for a Pokemon Presents showcase may shed further light on upcoming developments.