'Pokémon GO' news: Latest version of the game will no longer support older iPhones

A promotional poster for the AR mobile game, 'Pokemon Go.' Facebook/PokemonGO

"Pokemon GO" players who run the game using iPhone 5 and iPhone 5c had better "catch them all" very soon, especially if they have no intention of upgrading to a newer model at the moment.

Niantic labs, the San Francisco-based development company for the popular augmented reality game recently announced that they would no longer support older iPhones who cannot update to iOS 11, the latest version of Apple's operating system.

The latest build for Pokémon GO will include upgrades that will require the game to have a better machine that will be more capable of running the game, as the latest version will "push the application beyond the capabilities of operating systems on such devices," according to The Verge.

The said changes are scheduled to take place on the 28<sup>th of February. After the update is implemented, Players with non-iOS 11 operating systems will no longer be able to access the game and its features, including the use of PokéCoins and other items in their inventory.

Pokémon trainers whose phones who do not have the latest version of iOS 11 but are otherwise capable of upgrading to the latest version will not be affected by the changes, but will still be encouraged to update their operating system to be able to run the game, as explained in Niantic's support page.

Other than third and fourth generation iPhones, support will also discontinue for older iPads such as the iPad mini and the iPad 2.

Pokémon GO has captivated millions of players from all over the world and many trainers will certainly be disappointed at no longer being able to use their phones to catch their favorite monsters, but seeing as how the game is still scratching the surface of its potential, Niantic is convinced that the sacrifice will be necessary especially if it is going to become the game that the developers intend for it to be.

News
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest

Of the eight children murdered during lockdown, 7 were killed thanks to the actions of a step parent or new partner.

Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fourth year running
Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fourth year running

Abortion was legalised in Northern Ireland in 2019.

Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high
Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high

Across the country, people are looking to the church for help.

Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year
Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year

Isaiah 41:10 had the highest international engagement on YouVersion during 2025, while in the UK it was Jeremiah 29:11 that topped the list.