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 targeting 32-bit Android phones. This change, announced on January 9th, will take effect in two phases: March 2025 (affecting some Samsung Galaxy Store downloads) and June 2025 (affecting 32-bit Android devices from Google Play).
This affects millions of players. While Pokemon GO's player base has decreased since its 2016 launch (peaking at approximately 232 million daily active users), December 2024 data still indicates over 110 million active players within the preceding month. The upcoming updates will unfortunately impact a portion of this active player base.
Affected Devices:
While a complete list hasn't been provided, Niantic has confirmed the following devices will lose compatibility:
- 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 (64-bit Android or iOS devices remain supported), they will be temporarily locked out of their accounts, including any purchased Pokecoins.
Looking Ahead:
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 projects such as Pokemon Black and White remakes and a potential new entry in the Let's Go series. Further details regarding Pokemon GO's future may be revealed during a rumored Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th.
