What Happens if You Open Pokémon GO on Two Phones? A Deep Dive into Multi-Device Pokémon GO
Opening Pokémon GO on two phones simultaneously with the same account isn’t a recipe for double the fun. In fact, it’s a recipe for frustration and potential account penalties. The game’s architecture simply isn’t designed to handle concurrent logins from the same account on different devices. The most common immediate result is that one device will experience a connection error or be forcibly logged out. The game struggles to reconcile conflicting GPS data and player actions, leading to a disrupted experience on one or both devices. Moreover, attempting this consistently can raise red flags with Niantic’s anti-cheat system, potentially leading to warnings, temporary bans, or even permanent account closure. Think of it as trying to drive the same car from two different steering wheels – chaos ensues.
Why Simultaneous Logins Fail
Technical Limitations
Pokémon GO relies heavily on a consistent stream of data from your device, including GPS location, accelerometer readings, and network information. When you log in on two devices with the same account, the game receives conflicting data streams. The server can’t determine which device’s information is accurate, leading to errors, instability, and ultimately, a forced logout on one of the devices. This is because the game is designed to track a single, continuous journey for each account.
Security Concerns
Allowing simultaneous logins would create significant security vulnerabilities. It would become much easier for malicious actors to compromise accounts and engage in activities like spoofing or botting. Niantic prioritizes account security to maintain a fair and enjoyable experience for all players. Preventing simultaneous logins is a fundamental aspect of their security measures.
Niantic’s Terms of Service
Niantic’s Terms of Service explicitly state that sharing accounts is prohibited. While not technically account sharing, using one account on multiple devices concurrently effectively violates the spirit of the rule. Niantic aims to prevent unfair advantages gained through exploiting the game’s mechanics, and simultaneous logins fall squarely into that category.
The Realities of Multi-Phone Play
While directly logging into the same account on two phones is a no-go, players often explore alternative methods to enhance their gameplay. This often involves having multiple accounts, which, while technically against the spirit of the Terms of Service, is a prevalent practice.
Multiple Accounts: The Gray Area
Many players maintain multiple Pokémon GO accounts to maximize their opportunities for catching shinies, participating in raids, and trading Pokémon. While Niantic discourages this practice, enforcement is often lax. The advantages are clear: increased encounter rates, more raid opportunities, and the ability to transfer resources between accounts. However, it’s important to be aware of the risks involved.
The Risks of Multiple Accounts
Using multiple accounts comes with potential consequences. Niantic’s detection methods are becoming more sophisticated, and players caught engaging in such activity could face warnings, temporary suspensions, or even permanent bans. Furthermore, managing multiple accounts can be time-consuming and detract from the core enjoyment of the game. Remember, playing fairly and ethically is crucial for maintaining a positive community. Resources like those available at the Games Learning Society site (https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/) emphasize the importance of ethical gameplay within gaming communities.
Hardware Setups for Multi-Account Play
Some dedicated players have even developed elaborate hardware setups involving multiple phones mounted on custom rigs, allowing them to control several accounts simultaneously. Chen San-Yuan, famously known as “the Pokémon Go grandpa,” is a prime example of this dedication. While such setups might seem extreme, they highlight the lengths some players will go to gain an edge in the game.
Alternatives to Simultaneous Login
If you’re looking for ways to enhance your Pokémon GO experience without risking your account, consider these alternatives:
- Pokémon GO Plus/ Poké Ball Plus: These devices allow you to catch Pokémon and spin PokéStops without constantly looking at your phone.
- Adventure Sync: Enable Adventure Sync to track your distance even when the app is closed, allowing you to hatch eggs and earn rewards passively.
- Focus on Community: Connect with local Pokémon GO communities to coordinate raids, trade Pokémon, and share tips and tricks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I get banned for opening Pokémon GO on two phones with the same account?
Yes, you risk getting a warning, temporary suspension, or even a permanent ban. Niantic’s Terms of Service prohibit account sharing and using multiple devices to gain an unfair advantage.
2. What happens if I try to use the same account on two devices simultaneously?
One of the devices will likely experience a connection error or be forcibly logged out. The game cannot reconcile conflicting data from multiple devices.
3. Is it against the rules to have multiple Pokémon GO accounts?
While Niantic discourages it, many players maintain multiple accounts. However, it’s a violation of the Terms of Service and carries the risk of penalties.
4. Why do people play Pokémon GO on multiple phones?
They do it to gain advantages such as increased encounter rates, more raid opportunities, and the ability to trade resources between accounts.
5. How does Niantic detect cheating, such as using multiple accounts?
Niantic uses various methods, including analyzing GPS data, IP addresses, and device information to detect suspicious activity.
6. What is a soft ban in Pokémon GO, and how long does it last?
A soft ban restricts your gameplay activities. Any wild Pokémon you encounter will flee when you attempt to catch them, and you won’t be able to collect items from PokéStops. It typically lasts for a few hours to 12 hours.
7. How do I transfer Pokémon between two accounts?
You can transfer Pokémon between accounts using Pokémon HOME, a cloud-based service that allows you to store and transfer Pokémon across different games.
8. Can I have multiple Pokémon GO accounts on the same email?
No, each Pokémon GO account requires a unique login provider (Google, Facebook, or Apple). You cannot link the same email address to multiple accounts.
9. Can I connect multiple Pokémon GO accounts to Pokémon HOME?
No, Pokémon HOME can only be linked to one Nintendo Account at a time.
10. What is the 7-day warning on Pokémon GO?
It is a warning issued by Niantic indicating that they have detected suspicious activity on your account. During this period, you may experience limited gameplay features.
11. What does Niantic consider cheating in Pokémon GO?
Cheating includes accessing the Services in an unauthorized manner, playing with multiple accounts for the same Service, sharing accounts, and using any techniques to alter or falsify a device’s location.
12. Does Niantic check IP addresses to detect cheating?
Yes, Niantic may analyze IP addresses to identify suspicious patterns, such as using location spoofing apps to alter GPS coordinates from a fixed IP.
13. Can you get permanently banned from Pokémon GO for spoofing?
Yes, spoofing, which involves altering your device’s location, is a serious violation of the Terms of Service and can result in a permanent ban.
14. Is there a limit to how many friends you can have on Pokémon GO?
Yes, you can have up to 400 friends in your Niantic Friend List, including friends from other Niantic Apps.
15. What is Adventure Sync?
Adventure Sync lets you track your distance even when the app is closed, allowing you to hatch eggs and earn rewards passively. It uses your device’s built-in fitness tracking features.
In conclusion, while the allure of playing Pokémon GO on two phones simultaneously may be tempting, the risks outweigh the rewards. Stick to fair play, respect the game’s terms, and enjoy the community aspects of the game.