Catching ‘Em All: A Guide to Android Versions Compatible with Pokémon Go

Pokémon Go, the augmented reality game that took the world by storm in 2016, is still going strong today. With its unique blend of exploration, adventure, and nostalgia, it’s no wonder that millions of players around the globe are still catching ’em all. However, with the ever-evolving landscape of Android operating systems, it’s natural to wonder: what Android version is compatible with Pokémon Go?

Understanding Android Version Compatibility

Before we dive into the specifics of Android version compatibility, it’s essential to understand how Android versions work. Android is an open-source operating system, which means that device manufacturers can customize and modify the code to suit their needs. This leads to a wide range of Android versions, each with its unique features and capabilities.

When it comes to Pokémon Go, the game’s developers, Niantic, must ensure that the game is compatible with a wide range of Android versions. This is no easy feat, as each Android version has its own set of APIs, security patches, and features that must be taken into account.

Minimum System Requirements

So, what are the minimum system requirements for Pokémon Go on Android? According to Niantic’s official website, the minimum system requirements for Pokémon Go on Android are:

• Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) or later
• 2GB of RAM or more
• A compatible processor (such as ARMv7 or x86)
• A compatible GPU (such as Adreno 300 or Mali-T720)

It’s worth noting that these are the minimum system requirements, and having a more powerful device will generally result in a smoother gaming experience.

Android Version Compatibility Breakdown

Now that we’ve covered the minimum system requirements, let’s take a closer look at Android version compatibility. Here’s a breakdown of the Android versions that are compatible with Pokémon Go:

• Android 6.0 (Marshmallow): This is the minimum Android version required to play Pokémon Go. Marshmallow was released in 2015 and introduced a number of features, including improved security and battery life.
• Android 7.0 (Nougat): Released in 2016, Nougat introduced a number of features, including improved performance and security. Pokémon Go is fully compatible with Nougat.
• Android 8.0 (Oreo): Released in 2017, Oreo introduced a number of features, including improved performance and security. Pokémon Go is fully compatible with Oreo.
• Android 9.0 (Pie): Released in 2018, Pie introduced a number of features, including improved performance and security. Pokémon Go is fully compatible with Pie.
• Android 10 (Q): Released in 2019, Q introduced a number of features, including improved performance and security. Pokémon Go is fully compatible with Q.
• Android 11 (R): Released in 2020, R introduced a number of features, including improved performance and security. Pokémon Go is fully compatible with R.

It’s worth noting that while these Android versions are compatible with Pokémon Go, the game may not run smoothly on older devices. If you’re experiencing performance issues, it may be worth considering upgrading to a newer device.

Unsupported Android Versions

Unfortunately, not all Android versions are compatible with Pokémon Go. The following Android versions are no longer supported:

• Android 4.4 (KitKat): Released in 2013, KitKat is no longer supported by Pokémon Go.
• Android 5.0 (Lollipop): Released in 2014, Lollipop is no longer supported by Pokémon Go.
• Android 5.1 (Lollipop): Released in 2015, Lollipop 5.1 is no longer supported by Pokémon Go.

If you’re running one of these Android versions, you may experience issues with Pokémon Go, including crashes, freezes, and poor performance.

Device-Specific Compatibility Issues

While Android version compatibility is an essential factor in determining whether Pokémon Go will run on your device, it’s not the only consideration. Device-specific compatibility issues can also affect the game’s performance.

For example, some devices may have custom ROMs or kernels that can affect the game’s performance. Additionally, some devices may have hardware limitations that can impact the game’s performance.

Device-Specific Compatibility Issues to Watch Out For

Here are some device-specific compatibility issues to watch out for:

• Custom ROMs: If you’re running a custom ROM on your device, you may experience issues with Pokémon Go. Custom ROMs can modify the device’s software, which can affect the game’s performance.
• Kernel versions: Some kernel versions may not be compatible with Pokémon Go. If you’re experiencing issues with the game, it may be worth checking your kernel version.
• Hardware limitations: Some devices may have hardware limitations that can impact the game’s performance. For example, devices with low-end processors or limited RAM may struggle to run the game smoothly.

Conclusion

Pokémon Go is a game that requires a compatible Android version to run smoothly. While the game is compatible with a wide range of Android versions, including Marshmallow, Nougat, Oreo, Pie, Q, and R, it’s essential to ensure that your device meets the minimum system requirements.

By understanding Android version compatibility and device-specific compatibility issues, you can ensure that you have a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Pokémon trainer or just starting out, Pokémon Go is a game that’s sure to delight.

By referring to this table, you can quickly determine whether your Android version is compatible with Pokémon Go.

What Android versions are compatible with Pokémon Go?

Pokémon Go is compatible with Android versions 6.0 and above. This means that if you have a device running Android 6.0 Marshmallow, Android 7.0 Nougat, Android 8.0 Oreo, Android 9.0 Pie, Android 10, Android 11, or Android 12, you should be able to download and play the game without any issues. However, it’s worth noting that some older devices may not be able to run the game smoothly, even if they meet the minimum system requirements.

It’s also worth noting that Niantic, the developer of Pokémon Go, regularly updates the game to ensure compatibility with the latest Android versions. However, older devices may eventually become incompatible with the game as new updates are released. If you’re planning to play Pokémon Go on an older device, it’s a good idea to check the game’s system requirements regularly to ensure that your device is still compatible.

Can I play Pokémon Go on Android 5.0 or lower?

Unfortunately, Pokémon Go is not compatible with Android 5.0 or lower. This means that if you have a device running Android 4.4 KitKat, Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, or any earlier version of the operating system, you will not be able to download or play the game. This is because Pokémon Go requires a number of features and security updates that are not available on older versions of Android.

If you want to play Pokémon Go, you will need to upgrade your device to a newer version of Android or purchase a new device that meets the game’s system requirements. It’s worth noting that many older devices are no longer supported by their manufacturers, which means that they will not receive updates to newer versions of Android. In this case, purchasing a new device may be the only option.

How do I check my Android version?

To check your Android version, go to your device’s Settings app and scroll down to the “About phone” or “About device” section. This section will display information about your device, including the version of Android that it is running. You can also check your device’s documentation or manufacturer’s website for more information about your device’s specifications.

Once you have checked your Android version, you can compare it to the system requirements for Pokémon Go to determine whether your device is compatible with the game. If your device meets the minimum system requirements, you should be able to download and play the game without any issues.

Can I play Pokémon Go on a tablet?

Yes, you can play Pokémon Go on a tablet, as long as it meets the game’s system requirements. Many tablets run Android, and as long as the device has a compatible version of the operating system, you should be able to download and play the game. However, it’s worth noting that some tablets may not have GPS or other features that are required to play the game.

If you’re planning to play Pokémon Go on a tablet, make sure to check the device’s specifications to ensure that it meets the game’s system requirements. You should also consider the size and portability of the device, as Pokémon Go is designed to be played on the go.

Will Pokémon Go work on my rooted device?

Pokémon Go may not work on rooted devices, as the game uses a number of security features to prevent cheating and ensure fair play. Rooting a device can compromise these security features, which may cause the game to malfunction or not work at all.

If you have a rooted device and want to play Pokémon Go, you may need to unroot your device or use a different device that has not been rooted. It’s also worth noting that Niantic, the developer of Pokémon Go, has a strict policy against cheating and may ban players who use rooted devices or other exploits to gain an unfair advantage.

Can I play Pokémon Go on a device with a custom ROM?

Pokémon Go may not work on devices with custom ROMs, as the game is designed to work with official versions of Android. Custom ROMs can modify the operating system in ways that may cause the game to malfunction or not work at all.

If you have a device with a custom ROM and want to play Pokémon Go, you may need to install an official version of Android or use a different device that has not been modified. It’s also worth noting that Niantic, the developer of Pokémon Go, may not provide support for devices with custom ROMs, so you may need to seek help from the ROM developer or other users if you encounter any issues.

How do I update my Android version to play Pokémon Go?

To update your Android version to play Pokémon Go, go to your device’s Settings app and select the “System update” or “Software update” option. This will check for any available updates and prompt you to download and install them. You can also check your device’s manufacturer’s website for more information about updating your device.

Once you have updated your device to a compatible version of Android, you should be able to download and play Pokémon Go without any issues. Make sure to also check the game’s system requirements to ensure that your device meets all of the necessary specifications.