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 in 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 remain unaffected.
This news comes as Pokemon GO approaches its ninth anniversary, maintaining a substantial player base despite its age. While the game enjoyed immense popularity at launch, exceeding 232 million active players, recent data still shows a strong 110+ million active players in December 2024.
The upcoming updates will phase out support in two stages. The March update impacts specific Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store, while the June update targets 32-bit Android devices from Google Play. A partial list of affected devices includes:
Affected Devices (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 these devices are urged to safeguard their login credentials. While they can regain access after upgrading to a compatible device, they will temporarily lose access to their accounts, including any purchased Pokecoins.
Despite this setback for some players, 2025 promises exciting developments 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 emerge during a rumored Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th.