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 impact players in two phases: March 2025 and June 2025. The first update affects some Android devices downloaded from the Samsung Galaxy Store, while the second eliminates support for 32-bit Android devices obtained via Google Play.

While the game boasts over 110 million active players (December 2024 data), this update will affect a significant number of users who have yet to upgrade their devices. Niantic, the developer, aims to optimize the game's performance on newer hardware. While a comprehensive list hasn't been provided, 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
• Various Android devices released before 2015

Players using affected devices are urged to safeguard their login credentials. While account access will be restored after upgrading to a compatible device (64-bit Android or iOS), access will be temporarily unavailable between the March and June updates. This includes any purchased Pokecoins.

Despite this disruption, 2025 promises exciting developments for the Pokemon franchise. Highly anticipated releases such as Pokemon Legends: Z-A (release date pending) and rumored titles like Pokemon Black and White remakes and a new Let's Go installment are on the horizon. A potential Pokemon Presents showcase on February 27th may shed further light on future Pokemon GO content.