Pokémon GO
Pokémon GO launched on July 6, 2016 for iOS and Android and remains an active real-world adventure built around AR exploration, catching, trading, Raids and competitive battles. The playable focus includes real-world exploration, augmented reality encounters, Pokémon catching and evolution, trading, and Raid Battles. The latest tracked official activity is event: Pokémon GO Fest 2026: Global; dates: July 11-12, 2026; hours: 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. local time; price: Free. The listed access model is Free-to-play with optional in-game purchases. An internet connection is required for play.
Latest update
Pokémon GO Fest 2026: Global is scheduled for July 11 and 12 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. local time. The official event page states that the Global event is free and features Mewtwo and Zeraora.
Current store update date: July 2, 2026.
Release date and status
| Global release date | July 6, 2016 |
| Original launch platforms | |
| Current status | Released |
| Update model | Ongoing title updates, events, balance changes, and system updates |
Platforms and availability
The game is free-to-play with optional in-game purchases.
The confirmed platform set is iOS and Android. An internet connection is required for play.
Gameplay overview
Players explore real-world locations, catch and evolve Pokémon, trade with other Trainers and participate in Raid Battles. The game also includes Gyms, GO Battle League PvP, Buddy Pokémon and optional AR+ encounters. Confirmed gameplay information includes real-world exploration, augmented reality encounters, Pokémon catching and evolution, trading, Raid Battles, Gyms, GO Battle League PvP, and Buddy Pokémon.
Story, setting, or main mode
The main structure turns real-world movement into a persistent Pokémon adventure rather than a fixed linear campaign. Players grow a Pokédex, join teams and take part in recurring global and local events.
Trailer, screenshots, and media
The profile includes an official Pokémon GO trailer and current Google Play screenshots.
The gallery gives visual context for real-world exploration and augmented reality encounters.
Developer and publisher
Google Play currently lists Niantic, Inc. as the app developer. Scopely states that its acquisition of Niantic’s games business closed on May 29, 2025, bringing Pokémon GO and its game team into the Scopely portfolio.
Pokémon GO is developed by Niantic and published by Niantic.
The current ownership context records Scopely with the acquisition closing on May 29, 2025. The storefront developer listing remains Niantic, Inc.
| Developer | Niantic |
| Publisher | Niantic |
| Official website | Pokémon GO |
Download and availability
The game is available on iOS and Android at no base cost with optional purchases. An internet connection is required according to the current Google Play description.
System / Device Requirements
Niantic’s current support page gives an explicit mobile baseline rather than a vague store-compatibility statement. Both platforms need a strong data connection plus GPS and Location Services, and Niantic warns that meeting the baseline does not guarantee support for every device configuration.
Android support also requires a 64-bit device because Pokémon GO has ended support for 32-bit Android hardware. Older or lower-end phones may still run the game while rendering parts of the map differently.
| Spec | iOS | Android |
|---|---|---|
| Device / OS | iPhone 6s or later; iOS 15+ | Android 9+ on a supported 64-bit device |
| RAM | 2 GB or more | 2 GB or more |
| Display | Device-dependent | 720×1280 preferred |
| Connectivity | Strong Wi-Fi or 5G connection | Strong Wi-Fi or 5G connection |
| Sensors | GPS and Location Services | GPS and Location Services |
| Unsupported | Jailbroken devices | Rooted devices |