'Pokémon Go' is now playable at higher frame rates on iOS

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Niantic has rolled out new updates to the Pokémon Go app, and for iOS users, you now have the option to play the game at higher frame rates. There's a new option that lets you "unlock your device's native refresh rate for higher FPS." The developer didn't mention the feature specifically in the changelog, so it might fall under the "various quality-of-life improvements" section. You can enable the functionality in the game's advanced settings. It'll show "native refresh rate unlocked" when it's enabled.

The feature is disabled by default, so you'll need to dig in the settings to access it. Before this update, players needed to use workarounds to get Pokémon Go running at 60 frames per second instead of 30fps. With this development, iPhone 13 Pro users can enjoy the game at 120fps. It'll work with older iPhones, but the hardware might not be able to handle it. 

Source: Engadget

'Pokémon Go' brings face masks to the game

Source: Niantic

Niantic has updated Pokémon Go to reflect the times. The game will let you put on a protective mask on your avatar, as one would if you plan to play the game these days with the coronavirus pandemic still raging on. The face masks are available for free from  Pokémon Go's in-game style shop. 

In the US, Verizon mobile customers get access to a special black-and-red face mask to add on to an exclusive outfit option. The game is hosting a special event for Verizon's customers, too.

Source: Polygon

'Pokémon Go' will not work on older Android, iOS devices starting Oct. 2020

If you're using a device that runs on Android 5, iOS 10 and 11, and the iPhone 5s and iPhone 6 (even those running on iOS 12), you will no longer be able to access Pokémon Go starting October. Niantic announced it will stop supporting these devices, but the developer didn't explain why its cutting ties with the older mobile platforms and phones. 

But since Pokémon Go is an augmented reality-based game, it demands more performance than regular games. Perhaps the upcoming update will prevent the game from running smoothly on these older devices.

Source: 9to5Mac

You don't have to leave your house to play 'Pokémon Go'

Image: Niantic/The Pokémon Company

In the age of the COVID-19 pandemic, Niantic has changed how you can get more out of Pokémon Go without having to leave your home. The game developer has tweaked the game's different mechanics a bit to help keep its players safe. According to a Niantic representative, the studio is focusing on "updates to Pokémon GO features and experiences that can be enjoyed in individual settings."

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