Pokémon GO Crashing? Top Causes & Fixes
Pokémon GO, the augmented reality game that took the world by storm, continues to captivate millions of trainers. However, like any app, it’s not without its technical hiccups. One of the most frustrating issues players encounter is the dreaded game crash. Whether you’re in the middle of a heated raid battle or about to catch a rare Pokémon, a sudden crash can ruin the experience. This article explores the common causes behind Pokémon GO crashing and provides effective solutions to get you back on your feet, catching ’em all.
Common Causes of Pokémon GO Crashes
Several factors can contribute to Pokémon GO crashing. Understanding the root cause can help you pinpoint the most effective solution. Let’s delve into some of the most frequent culprits:
Device Compatibility and Performance
Pokémon GO is a resource-intensive game. Older devices or those with limited RAM and processing power may struggle to run the game smoothly, leading to frequent crashes. Similarly, running other demanding apps in the background can strain your device’s resources and trigger crashes. Make sure your device meets the minimum system requirements and close unnecessary background apps before launching Pokémon GO.
Software Issues
Outdated operating systems or Pokémon GO app versions can harbor bugs and compatibility issues that cause crashes. Ensure your device’s OS and the Pokémon GO app are updated to the latest versions. Sometimes, corrupted game data can also lead to problems. Reinstalling the app can often resolve this issue.
Network Connectivity Problems
Pokémon GO relies on a stable internet connection. A weak or fluctuating network signal can cause the game to freeze or crash. Switch to a more reliable network (Wi-Fi if available) or try restarting your router. Network issues can also be caused by server problems on Niantic’s end, in which case you’ll need to wait for them to resolve the issue. You can check websites like Downdetector to see if other players are experiencing similar issues.
GPS Issues
As a location-based game, Pokémon GO heavily relies on your device’s GPS. Inaccurate or fluctuating GPS signals can cause the game to malfunction and crash. Ensure your device’s location services are enabled and set to high accuracy. If you’re indoors or in an area with a weak GPS signal, try moving to a location with a clearer view of the sky.
Overheating
Playing Pokémon GO for extended periods, especially in hot weather, can cause your device to overheat. Overheating can lead to performance issues, including crashes. Avoid playing for extended periods in direct sunlight and give your device breaks to cool down.
Server-Side Issues
Sometimes, the problem isn’t on your end. Niantic’s servers can experience outages or heavy load during events, leading to widespread crashes. In such cases, the only solution is to wait for Niantic to address the issue. You can check their official social media channels for updates.
Fixes for Pokémon GO Crashing
Now that we’ve identified the common causes, let’s explore some effective fixes:
Update Your App and OS
Ensure you’re running the latest version of Pokémon GO and your device’s operating system. Updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that can resolve crashing issues. Go to your device’s app store or settings to check for updates.
Restart Your Device
A simple restart can often resolve temporary software glitches that may be causing the crashes. Turn off your device completely, wait a few seconds, and then turn it back on.
Clear Cache and Data
Clearing the cache and data for Pokémon GO can resolve issues related to corrupted game files. Go to your device’s settings, find the Pokémon GO app, and clear its cache and data. Note that this will log you out of the game, so make sure you know your login credentials. Wondering how to get a raid pass in Pokémon GO? Clearing your cache won’t affect your inventory.
Reinstall Pokémon GO
If clearing the cache and data doesn’t work, try reinstalling the app. This will completely remove the game and its data from your device, allowing you to start fresh. Download the latest version of Pokémon GO from your device’s app store.
Check Your Network Connection
Ensure you have a stable internet connection. Try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if one is more stable than the other. If you’re using Wi-Fi, try restarting your router. If you’re on mobile data, check your signal strength and data plan.
Free Up Storage Space
If your device is running low on storage space, it can impact performance and cause apps to crash. Delete unnecessary files, photos, or videos to free up space. Learn more about Pokémon GO nesting to optimize your catching strategies.
Adjust Graphics Settings
Lowering the graphics settings in Pokémon GO can improve performance and reduce the strain on your device’s resources. Open the game settings and adjust the graphics quality to a lower setting. This can significantly reduce crashes on older or less powerful devices.
Disable Background Apps
Close any unnecessary apps running in the background to free up resources for Pokémon GO. This can improve performance and prevent crashes.
Cool Down Your Device
If your device is overheating, give it a break to cool down. Avoid playing in direct sunlight or hot environments for extended periods. You can also try removing your device’s case to allow for better heat dissipation. Looking to diversify your gameplay? Explore the best Pokémon movesets in Pokémon GO to gain a competitive edge.
Check for Server Issues
If you suspect the crashes are due to server-side problems, check Niantic’s official social media channels or websites like Downdetector for updates. Unfortunately, there’s nothing you can do in this case but wait for Niantic to resolve the issue.
By understanding the causes of Pokémon GO crashes and implementing these fixes, you can minimize interruptions and enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable gaming experience. Happy catching!