Does Pokémon GO Plus Work if the App Is Closed? Your Comprehensive Guide
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Yes, the Pokémon GO Plus and Pokémon GO Plus + can work while the app is closed, but with nuances. While the original Pokémon GO Plus had limitations, the introduction of Adventure Sync and the features of the Pokémon GO Plus + significantly expanded background functionality. Let’s break down how this works and what you need to know to maximize your Pokémon-catching and sleep-tracking efficiency.
Understanding the Evolution of Pokémon GO Plus Functionality
Initially, the Pokémon GO Plus required the app to be running in the background, though the screen could be locked to save battery. This allowed you to catch Pokémon and spin PokéStops without constantly staring at your phone. However, it still consumed battery life at a higher rate than if the app was completely closed.
The real game-changer came with Adventure Sync. This feature allows Pokémon GO to track your steps and distance even when the app is closed. This data is then used for hatching eggs and earning Buddy Candy, a feature completely independent of the Pokémon GO Plus devices.
The Pokémon GO Plus + takes things a step further. It retains the ability to catch Pokémon and spin PokéStops like the original, but it also adds sleep tracking capabilities. To use its primary functions, yes, the app has to be opened and paired with the device. However, its data can still be collected with background app refresh allowed.
How Adventure Sync Works
Adventure Sync uses your phone’s built-in fitness tracking capabilities (like Apple Health or Google Fit) to record your movement. Here’s what you need to know:
- Enabling Adventure Sync: You must enable Adventure Sync within the Pokémon GO app settings.
- Permissions: You’ll need to grant Pokémon GO access to your phone’s motion and fitness data.
- Background Activity: Once set up, Pokémon GO can track your distance walked even when the app is closed.
- Rewards: You’ll receive weekly rewards based on the distance you’ve walked, and eggs will hatch even with the app closed.
Maximizing the Pokémon GO Plus + Experience
The Pokémon GO Plus + offers a more integrated experience. Here’s how it works with the app closed or in the background:
- Pokémon Catching and PokéStop Spinning: To catch Pokémon and spin PokéStops with the Pokémon GO Plus +, the app needs to be running in the background and connected to the device.
- Sleep Tracking: The Pokémon GO Plus + is designed to track your sleep. This feature works independently of the Pokémon GO app being actively open, but you will need to sync the data later when you open the app.
- Integration with Pokémon Sleep: The Pokémon GO Plus + integrates directly with the Pokémon Sleep app. This accessory tracks how long a user sleeps and transfers sleep data to the Pokémon Sleep app.
- Notifications and Feedback: The device uses vibrations and lights to notify you of nearby Pokémon or PokéStops.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with these advancements, some users encounter issues. Here are a few common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
- Connectivity Issues: If your Pokémon GO Plus or Pokémon GO Plus + isn’t connecting, try unpairing and re-pairing the device in the Pokémon GO app settings.
- Tracking Problems: If Adventure Sync isn’t tracking your steps, ensure that the necessary permissions are enabled and that your phone’s fitness tracking is working correctly.
- Battery Drain: While Adventure Sync is more efficient than having the app open, it can still impact battery life. Consider optimizing your phone’s battery settings for background app activity.
Is the Pokémon GO Plus + Worth It?
Whether the Pokémon GO Plus + is worth the investment depends on your play style. If you are a committed trainer or love the experience of Pokémon Sleep, it is definitely worth it. Here are some of the advantages:
- Convenience: Catch Pokémon and spin PokéStops without constantly looking at your phone.
- Efficiency: Track steps and hatch eggs even when the app is closed.
- Sleep Tracking: Integrate your sleep data into the Pokémon ecosystem.
- Dual App Compatibility: The device has compatibility for both Pokémon GO and Pokémon Sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does the Pokémon GO app need to be open for the Poké Ball Plus to work?
No, the Poké Ball Plus does not need the app up on your screen at all times. The controller vibrates and flashes to notify you of PokéStops or nearby Pokémon. But the app must be running in the background, with your phone unlocked.
2. Does the Pokémon GO Plus work in your pocket?
Yes, the Pokémon GO Plus is designed to be used in your pocket. It allows you to catch Pokémon and spin PokéStops without taking your phone out.
3. Why is Pokémon GO not tracking steps when the app is closed?
Ensure that Adventure Sync is enabled in the app settings and that Pokémon GO has permission to access your phone’s location and fitness data. Also, make sure your phone’s battery optimization settings aren’t restricting background activity for Pokémon GO.
4. Does Pokémon GO Plus drain battery?
Yes, using the Pokémon GO Plus does drain battery, but it’s generally less than having the app actively open. The Pokémon GO Plus + has a battery life of approximately one week if connected for two to three hours per day.
5. How do I know if the Pokémon GO Plus + is tracking sleep?
Press and hold the main button on your Pokémon GO Plus +. You should hear Pikachu sing and the button will light up with vibrations, indicating that sleep tracking is complete.
6. Why is my Pokémon GO Plus + flashing red when trying to track sleep?
A flashing red light indicates that your sleep log was not recorded successfully or that your sleep session was shorter than 90 minutes. Try again and ensure the device is properly positioned.
7. Why is my Pokémon GO Plus flashing green?
A flashing green light means a Pokémon is nearby. If the light flashes yellow, it indicates a Pokémon you haven’t caught before.
8. Why won’t my Poké Ball Plus turn on?
Try resetting the Poké Ball Plus, using a different AC adapter, USB port, or USB cable. If the issue persists, the device may be faulty.
9. Does Pokémon GO Plus only use regular Poké Balls?
Yes, the Pokémon GO Plus will only use standard Poké Balls. It won’t use Great or Ultra Balls, so stock up on regular Poké Balls.
10. Why won’t my Pokémon GO Plus catch anything?
Poor network connectivity can prevent the Pokémon GO Plus from catching Pokémon. Also, it will flash red if it fails to capture a Pokémon, or if you’re out of Poké Balls or your bag is full.
11. What do I do if my Pokémon GO Plus Plus is not working?
Try removing the connection from your app and reconnecting it. In the Map View, tap the Main Menu button, then Settings, and remove the device.
12. Can I use the Pokémon GO Plus + while charging?
It’s not recommended to use the Pokémon GO Plus + while charging to avoid heat buildup.
13. Is the Pokémon GO Plus waterproof?
No, the Pokémon GO Plus + is not water- or damage-resistant. Be careful not to expose it to water.
14. Do eggs hatch while the Pokémon GO app is closed?
Yes, if you have Adventure Sync turned on, you can hatch eggs while the app is closed.
15. What is the speed limit in Pokémon GO?
The speed limit for tracking distance in Pokémon GO is approximately 10 MPH. The game tracks progress every 30 seconds, so exceeding this speed may prevent accurate distance tracking.
Conclusion
While the original Pokémon GO Plus offered limited background functionality, the introduction of Adventure Sync and the Pokémon GO Plus + have significantly enhanced the ability to play with the app closed. By understanding how these features work and troubleshooting common issues, you can maximize your Pokémon-catching and sleep-tracking experience. Remember to stay safe and have fun exploring the world of Pokémon!
For those interested in the educational aspects of gaming and learning, explore resources and research available at the Games Learning Society website (GamesLearningSociety.org).