Are you tired of your Android phone dying in the middle of a Pokémon Go adventure? You’re not alone! Saving battery life when playing Pokémon Go is a hot topic among Android users, especially as the game continues to evolve with new features and AR enhancements. Since Pokémon Go is a location-based game that relies heavily on GPS, mobile data, and your phone’s screen, it can drain your battery faster than you can catch a Pikachu. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to save battery life when playing Pokémon Go, so you can focus on catching ‘em all without worrying about your phone running out of juice. Whether you’re a seasoned trainer or just starting, these tips will help you maximize your gameplay and keep your device powered longer.
Why Does Pokémon Go Drain Your Android Battery?
Pokémon Go is an immersive augmented reality (AR) game that requires constant use of your phone’s GPS, camera, and screen. These features, combined with mobile data usage and frequent notifications, can significantly impact your Android device’s battery life. Understanding why this happens is the first step in finding effective solutions.
- GPS Tracking: The game continuously tracks your location to place you on the map and spawn Pokémon nearby.
- Screen Time: Pokémon Go is visually engaging, requiring your screen to stay on for extended periods.
- Mobile Data: The game downloads map data and event information in real time.
- AR Features: Using your camera for AR mode consumes additional power.
Best Ways to Save Battery Life When Playing Pokémon Go on Android
Enable Pokémon Go’s Built-in Battery Saver Mode
Pokémon Go offers a native battery saver feature designed to reduce power consumption. When enabled, the screen dims while your phone is upside down (like when it’s in your pocket), but the game continues running in the background.
- Open Pokémon Go.
- Tap the Poké Ball → Settings.
- Scroll down and check Battery Saver.
This simple step can help extend your playtime significantly.
Lower Your Screen Brightness
Reducing screen brightness is one of the quickest ways to save battery life when playing Pokémon Go. Lower it to the minimum comfortable level, or enable adaptive brightness in Android settings.
Turn Off AR Mode
While AR mode adds realism, it uses your camera and drains your battery. Disable AR mode during Pokémon encounters by toggling the AR switch in the top-right corner. This will switch to a static background and conserve energy.
Disable Background Apps and Notifications
Running multiple apps can drain your battery faster. Close unnecessary apps and mute notifications to reduce background activity.
Use Battery Saver Apps for Android
Consider installing third-party battery saver apps to optimize your phone’s performance while playing Pokémon Go. Here are some top-rated options:
App Name Key Features Download Link Greenify Hibernates background apps, reduces wake-ups Google Play Store AccuBattery Monitors battery health, real-time stats Google Play Store Battery Guru Custom battery profiles, usage analytics Google Play Store Activate Android’s Power Saving Mode
Most Android devices offer built-in power saving modes that limit background data, reduce performance, and dim the screen. Activate this mode before launching Pokémon Go for longer sessions.
Update Pokémon Go and Android OS
Make sure you’re running the latest version of Pokémon Go and your Android operating system. Updates often include optimizations that improve battery efficiency.
Carry a Portable Power Bank
For hardcore trainers, a portable power bank is a must-have accessory. Choose one with fast charging and a high mAh rating to keep your phone charged during long outings.
Disable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi When Not Needed
If you’re not using Bluetooth accessories or Wi-Fi, turn these features off to conserve energy. Pokémon Go primarily uses mobile data and GPS.
Limit In-Game Animations and Sound
Reduce or mute in-game sounds and animations in the settings menu. This can help your phone run cooler and last longer.
Comparison Table: Top Battery Saver Apps for Pokémon Go
| App | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Greenify | Easy to use, effective for background app hibernation | Requires extra permissions, some features need root access |
| AccuBattery | Detailed battery stats, health monitoring | Ads in free version, limited automation |
| Battery Guru | Custom profiles, insightful analytics | Learning curve for new users |
How to Install and Use Battery Saver Apps on Android
- Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
- Search for your chosen app (e.g., Greenify, AccuBattery, Battery Guru).
- Tap Install and wait for the download to complete.
- Open the app and follow the on-screen setup instructions.
- Grant necessary permissions for optimal performance.
- Configure settings to suit your battery-saving needs.
Pros and Cons Table: Pokémon Go’s Built-in Battery Saver
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to activate, reduces screen usage, no extra app needed | May cause screen dimming issues on some devices, limited customization |
Troubleshooting Tips for Battery Drain in Pokémon Go
- Game Lagging or Crashing: Restart your device and close background apps.
- Battery Saver Not Working: Make sure the latest game update is installed and check for device-specific settings.
- Device Overheating: Play in a cool environment, reduce screen brightness, and take breaks.
- Unexpected Battery Drain: Check for rogue apps in the background using your device’s battery usage stats.
- Location Issues: Ensure high-accuracy mode is enabled for GPS, but turn off Wi-Fi scanning if not needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I make my Android battery last longer while playing Pokémon Go?
Use the game’s built-in battery saver, lower screen brightness, disable AR mode, and close background apps. Consider using battery saver apps and a portable power bank for extended sessions.
Does turning off AR mode really save battery?
Yes, disabling AR mode prevents the camera from running continuously, which significantly reduces battery consumption during encounters.
Are battery saver apps safe to use with Pokémon Go?
Most reputable battery saver apps from the Google Play Store are safe. Always check reviews and permissions before installing.
Will using power saving mode affect Pokémon Go performance?
Power saving mode may slightly reduce performance or graphics quality, but it can help extend your battery life during long play sessions.
What should I do if my phone overheats while playing Pokémon Go?
Take breaks, lower screen brightness, disable unnecessary features, and play in a cooler environment to prevent overheating.
Conclusion
Pokémon Go is an exciting game that can quickly drain your Android device’s battery. By using built-in features, third-party apps, and smart device management, you can save battery life and enjoy longer adventures. Try out the tips and tools mentioned above to keep your phone powered up and ready to catch ‘em all. Which battery-saving method or app do you like most? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!