type
status
date
slug
summary
tags
category
icon
password
Why Isn't My Device Compatible with Pokémon GO?
If you've recently encountered issues with running Pokémon GO on your device, you may be wondering why it isn't compatible. This can be a frustrating experience, especially for avid players looking to catch Pokémon and participate in events. In this article, we will explore common reasons for device incompatibility and offer solutions to help you get back into the game.
Common Reasons for Incompatibility
1. Operating System Requirements
One of the primary reasons for incompatibility is that your device may not meet the minimum operating system requirements. As of now, Pokémon GO requires:
- iOS: iPhone 6s or newer with iOS 15 or later.
- Android: Android 8.0 (Oreo) or newer.
If your device is running an older version of iOS or Android, you will need to update your operating system to continue playing.
2. Device Specifications
In addition to the operating system, your device must meet certain hardware specifications:
- At least 2 GB of RAM is required for smooth gameplay.
- A strong internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data) is essential for connecting to the game servers.
- GPS and location services must be enabled to track your movements in the game.
If your device lacks sufficient RAM or has connectivity issues, you may experience compatibility problems.
3. Rooted or Jailbroken Devices
Devices that have been rooted (Android) or jailbroken (iOS) are often not supported by Pokémon GO. This is because rooting or jailbreaking can compromise the security of the device and lead to instability in gameplay. If your device is rooted or jailbroken, you may need to revert it to its original state to play the game.
4. Beta Versions of Operating Systems
If you are using a beta version of Android or iOS, it may cause compatibility issues with Pokémon GO. Beta versions can introduce bugs and instability that affect app performance. It’s recommended to switch back to a stable version of the operating system if you encounter problems while using beta software.
5. Specific Device Models
Certain devices have been known to have compatibility issues even if they meet the general requirements. For example, some users with popular models like Samsung Galaxy S7 have reported intermittent problems where the game works sometimes but not others. This inconsistency can stem from various factors, including software glitches or specific configurations on those devices.
Troubleshooting Steps
If you're facing compatibility issues, consider trying these troubleshooting steps:
- Check for Updates: Ensure that both your operating system and Pokémon GO app are up-to-date. Visit the App Store or Google Play Store to check for updates.
- Clear Cache and Data: For Android users, clearing the cache and data for the Pokémon GO app can resolve some issues. Go to Settings > Apps > Pokémon GO > Storage > Clear Cache/Clear Data.
- Reinstall the App: Uninstalling and reinstalling Pokémon GO can sometimes resolve compatibility issues caused by corrupted files.
- Restart Your Device: A simple restart can often fix temporary glitches that may prevent the game from running properly.
- Contact Support: If none of these solutions work, consider reaching out to Niantic support for further assistance. They may have additional insights into specific devices and their compatibility issues.
Conclusion
Incompatibility with Pokémon GO can arise from various factors, including outdated operating systems, insufficient hardware specifications, rooted devices, and specific model issues. By understanding these common reasons and following troubleshooting steps, you can improve your chances of resolving any compatibility problems you encounter. If all else fails, contacting Niantic support may provide additional solutions tailored to your specific situation. With a little effort, you'll be back on your Pokémon journey in no time!
Citations:
[1] https://forum.pokemongohub.net/t/device-incompatibility/21975
[2] https://pokemongolive.com/post/ios10-ios11-android5-discontinued-support/
[3] https://support.pokemon.com/hc/en-us/articles/16927143589652-Pokémon-GO-Plus-Troubleshooting-Information
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/TheSilphRoad/comments/1de0xd7/this_device_os_or_software_is_not_compatible_with/
[5] https://niantic.helpshift.com/hc/en/6-pokemon-go/faq/92-supported-devices/
[6] https://outof.games/news/3643-pokemon-tcg-online-is-shutting-down-relaunching-under-new-game-pokemon-tcg-live/
[7] https://www.pokecardhq.com/pokemon-tcg-pocket-vs-live/
[8] https://dotesports.com/pokemon/news/does-pokemon-tcg-live-have-crossplay