What Happens If I Delete the Pokémon GO App?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Deleting the Pokémon GO app from your phone does not delete your account or your progress. Think of it like removing the window through which you view the Pokémon world. Your actual account, with all your Pokémon, items, level, and achievements, is stored safely on Niantic’s servers. Therefore, if you reinstall the app and log in with the same credentials, you’ll be able to pick up right where you left off. This is because, all game progress is stored online.
However, this assumes a few key things. First, you remember your login information, including the email address or login method (Google, Facebook, or Pokémon Trainer Club) associated with your account. Forgetting your login details is a bigger problem than deleting the app! Second, you haven’t specifically requested Niantic to delete your account. Deleting your account is a separate and irreversible process. Uninstalling the app is a reversible process. Let’s delve into the implications and other related questions in more detail below.
Understanding Data Storage in Pokémon GO
Pokémon GO, like most modern mobile games, relies heavily on cloud-based data storage. This means that the core game data isn’t housed on your individual device but on a remote server managed by the game developer. The app on your phone primarily serves as an interface to access and interact with this data. This is why you can switch between different devices, like a phone and a tablet, and still maintain the same Pokémon GO profile.
The benefits of cloud-based data storage include:
- Account security: Your progress is safe even if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.
- Cross-device compatibility: Play the game on any compatible device without losing progress.
- Reduced storage requirements: Less game data is stored directly on your phone.
- Server-side updates: Niantic can implement updates and changes to the game without requiring you to download a completely new app version every time.
Uninstalling vs. Deleting Your Pokémon GO Account
It’s crucial to differentiate between uninstalling the Pokémon GO app and deleting your Pokémon GO account.
Uninstalling the App:
- Simply removes the app from your device.
- Leaves your account and progress intact on Niantic’s servers.
- Allows you to reinstall the app and resume playing at any time.
Deleting Your Account:
- Permanently removes your account and all associated data from Niantic’s servers.
- Cannot be undone. Once your account is deleted, it’s gone for good.
- Requires a specific request to Niantic through the app or their website.
- Will require you to create a brand new account if you wish to play again.
Reinstalling Pokémon GO
Reinstalling Pokémon GO is a straightforward process. Simply go to your device’s app store (Google Play Store for Android, App Store for iOS), search for “Pokémon GO,” and download the latest official version.
Steps for Reinstallation:
- Open the app store on your device.
- Search for “Pokémon GO.”
- Tap “Install” (Android) or “Get” (iOS).
- Wait for the app to download and install.
- Open the app.
- Log in using your existing credentials (Google, Facebook, or Pokémon Trainer Club).
- Verify your age, if prompted.
- Begin playing where you left off!
Factors to Consider Before Deleting or Uninstalling
Before you hit that uninstall button, or even consider deleting your account, there are a few things you might want to think about:
- Reason for Uninstalling: Are you taking a temporary break, or are you done with the game entirely? If it’s just a break, uninstalling is fine. If you’re sure you won’t play again, then deleting might be something to consider.
- Pokémon Value: Do you have rare or powerful Pokémon that you might regret losing?
- Achievements and Progress: Have you invested significant time and effort into leveling up and completing challenges?
- Future Content: Are you aware of upcoming events or features that might rekindle your interest in the game?
If you are feeling burdened by playing, keep in mind that you can always come back later. Uninstalling the game won’t send any serious message as long as you don’t delete your account as well. Of course Niantic will see a drop in active installations, but they won’t really care as long as the number of accounts doesn’t significantly drop as well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions related to deleting the Pokémon GO app:
1. Will I lose my Pokémon if I delete the app?
No, your Pokémon are stored on Niantic’s servers and are linked to your account. You won’t lose them if you simply delete the app.
2. What happens to my items if I uninstall Pokémon GO?
Your items, like Poké Balls, Potions, and Revives, are also stored on Niantic’s servers and will remain in your account after uninstalling.
3. Do I keep my level and progress if I delete the app?
Yes, your level, experience points, and all other progress are linked to your account and are preserved when you reinstall the app.
4. Will I lose my friends if I delete Pokémon GO?
Your friend list is linked to your account and will remain intact when you reinstall the app.
5. Can I get my account back if I delete it?
No, deleting your account is permanent and irreversible. You cannot recover a deleted account.
6. How do I delete my Pokémon GO account permanently?
You must submit a request to Niantic through the app or their website to permanently delete your account. The process involves verifying your identity and confirming your intention to delete the account.
7. Does deleting the app free up storage space on my phone?
Yes, deleting the app removes the app files from your device, freeing up storage space.
8. Will reinstalling the app use up a lot of data?
Downloading and reinstalling the app will use data, so it’s best to do so over a Wi-Fi connection to avoid incurring data charges. We’ve already established that the average Pokémon GO player spends about 33 minutes each day in the app (a figure that hasn’t decreased since launch). Based the data we analyzed for this post, that would amount to about 250 MB of monthly mobile data usage for an average user, if played entirely without Wi-Fi use.
9. What if I forget my login information?
If you forget your login information, use the “Forgot Password” or “Recover Account” options on the login screen. You may need to provide your email address or username to recover your account.
10. Is it safe to download Pokémon GO from unofficial sources?
No, downloading the app from unofficial sources is risky and can expose your device to malware or viruses. Always download the app from the official app store (Google Play Store or App Store).
11. Does Pokémon GO drain my battery?
Pokémon GO can be battery-intensive due to its use of GPS, augmented reality, and constant network connectivity. Consider using battery-saving mode or carrying a portable charger.
12. Does Pokémon GO use a lot of data?
Yes, Pokémon GO uses data for downloading map information, Pokémon locations, and interacting with the game server. Playing primarily over Wi-Fi can help reduce data consumption. The more you play, the more data you will consume. According to Business Insider, on average Pokémon Go eats up about 25 megabytes in an eight-hour period. This works out at about 3 MB per hour.
13. Why is Pokémon GO no longer as popular as it used to be?
Pokémon Go’s decline has been characterised by a consistent lack of communication. The game’s fanbase has become a fraction of what it once was. Techjury reported that Pokémon GO reached its peak in 2016 with 232 million users but has since declined to 71 million in 2021, even though numerous Pokémon games and events were released during that period.
14. Can I play Pokémon GO offline?
No, Pokémon GO requires a constant internet connection to play.
15. Is Pokémon GO safe for kids?
Pokémon can be a fairly safe app, but there are definitely a few things parents need to know about to help keep their kids safe. Yes, you need to be over the age of 13 to set up an account. The app does allow a parent to set up an account for their child to use if they are not 13 yet. You can either set up an account by using your Google email address or by setting up a Pokemon Trainer account—both of which have a 13 age requirement.
Final Thoughts
Deleting the Pokémon GO app is a non-destructive act for your account and its contents. As long as you remember your login details and don’t actively delete your account, your progress will be safe and sound. The key takeaway here is to be mindful of the distinction between uninstalling the app and deleting your account, as the latter is a permanent action. For those interested in further exploration of game-based learning and its impact on education, the Games Learning Society offers valuable resources and insights. You can explore their research and publications at GamesLearningSociety.org.