Pokémon GO Retiring Support for Outdated Devices

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 will lose access unless they upgrade their phones.

This change affects a range of older models, impacting those who haven't updated their devices in several years. While the game remains popular— boasting over 110 million active players in December 2024— this decision necessitates a phone upgrade for continued gameplay.

The January 9th announcement on the official Pokemon GO website detailed the phased rollout. The March update impacts certain Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store. The June update specifically targets 32-bit Android devices obtained via Google Play. A partial list of affected devices includes:

• 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

Niantic advises affected players to securely save their login credentials. While account access will be restored after upgrading to a compatible device, players will temporarily lose access, including any purchased Pokecoins.

Despite this disruption, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokemon franchise. Highly anticipated releases like Pokemon Legends: Z-A are on the horizon, along with rumored remakes of Pokemon Black and White and a potential new Let's Go title. Further information regarding Pokemon GO's future may be revealed during a rumored Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th.