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 may lose access unless they upgrade their phones.
The popular augmented reality game, launched in July 2016, boasts a significant player base. While peak player numbers have fluctuated, the game remains extremely popular. However, this change will impact a segment of this player base.
The January 9th announcement detailed the impending incompatibility. The first update (March 2025) affects some Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store. The second (June 2025) specifically targets 32-bit Android devices downloaded via Google Play.
While Niantic provided a partial list of affected devices, it's crucial to note that 64-bit Android devices and all iPhones will remain compatible. The affected devices include, but are 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
- Certain 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 unable to play – and access in-game purchases – until the upgrade is complete.
Despite this disruption, 2025 promises exciting developments for the broader 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 installment. The future of Pokemon GO itself remains somewhat uncertain, but a potential Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th may shed more light on upcoming plans.
