Pokemon GO to Drop Support for Older Devices in 2025

A pair of upcoming updates to Pokemon GO will render the game unplayable on several older mobile devices, starting as early as March 2025. The changes primarily affect 32-bit Android devices, prompting players with affected phones to upgrade to maintain access.

This shift, announced on January 9th, impacts the long-running augmented reality game which celebrated its eighth anniversary in 2024. While still boasting a substantial player base (over 110 million active players in December 2024, according to ActivePlayer), Niantic's decision to optimize the game for newer hardware necessitates ending support for older models.

The first update, arriving in March 2025, will impact specific Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy store. A second update in June 2025 will then fully phase out support for 32-bit Android devices obtained via Google Play. While a complete list of affected devices hasn't been released, Niantic confirmed that 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones will remain compatible.

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
• Several Android devices released before 2015

Players using affected devices are urged to securely save their login credentials. While they can regain access after upgrading their phones, they will be temporarily locked out of their accounts, including any purchased Pokecoins, until the upgrade is complete.

Despite this disruption, 2025 promises to be a significant year for the Pokémon 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 new Let's Go title. Further details regarding Pokemon GO's future may be revealed during a rumored Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th.